24/01/2020

Mathematical 'flavor': PROLÍMPICO motivates teachers

“Olympic problems add 'spice' to mathematics. The problems are contextualized, creative, and thought-provoking. The subject becomes more motivating for students.” This is how Pablo Ganassim, a mathematics teacher for almost 30 years, defines the importance of encouraging an Olympic culture in the classroom. A great enthusiast of the competitions, Pablo was one of the speakers at the 1st edition of the Olympic Teacher Improvement Program (PROLÍMPICO) , held by IMPA.

The PROLÍMPICO ended this Friday (24), with face-to-face classes in Rio de Janeiro and transmission to 40 centers throughout Brazil. It was a four-day event with free training for mathematics teachers, covering topics related to basic education mathematics olympiads. The videos of the presentations are available and, soon, all the content will be available in PDF.

Event coordinator Krerley Oliveira points out that the broadcast centers distributed throughout the country contributed to spreading Olympic culture across Brazil. “The teachers who presented shared their experiences with others who don't always work with Olympic issues. It is from this exchange that we see it's possible to start a large-scale Olympic program in schools.”

“After a student participates in the Olympiad, you debunk myths. For example, the idea that a competition is only for super-talented students, who are born 'blessed' with super-abilities. On the contrary, the Olympiad is for everyone who is willing to think a little, dedicate themselves, and have an open mind to learn,” adds Pablo. “The mistake is thinking that you weren't born to learn how to deal with numbers, that you'll never use this or that… Mathematics is like a ladder: you only reach the last step by going through the first.”

Daniele Cristina, who works in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro as a support agent for special education, attended the PROLÍMPICO lectures. “Mathematics comes from constructivism. That is, mistakes open doors, they provide opportunities for various learning experiences. Without a doubt, this is something I will carry with me forever and apply in my work.”

The classes also provided extra incentive for teachers who are looking to bring new methods into the classroom. Betina Vath attended classes that "added content, whether through the suggested bibliography, the teachers' suggestions, or the problems proposed," says the Niterói native. "They also made me revisit topics I hadn't studied in years, such as number theory."

Thiago Landim, from Pernambuco, is already looking forward to the next edition of PROLÍMPICO, which is yet to be scheduled. “I don’t know when it will be, but I hope to be able to come to Rio to participate.” About to become a mathematician at the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Thiago has participated in numerous mathematics olympiads. “I’ve already participated in the Brazilian Mathematics Olympiad (OBM), the Ibero-American Mathematics Olympiad, the International Mathematics Competition for University Students (IMC), and the Ibero-American Inter-University Mathematics Competition (CIIM). Participating in olympiads opens doors; it’s much more than just going to university. Participating in mathematics olympiads has helped me, and I want to pass that on to other students. It’s great to see that the Olympic culture is being encouraged here!” he concludes.