Curricular Integration of Mathematics and Dance to Improve Geometric Reasoning in Secondary School Students

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of integrating dance into mathematics education, with the purpose of improving geometric reasoning among secondary school students in Colombia and increasing their interest in STEAM disciplines. Theoretical Framework: This section presents the main concepts and theories supporting the research. Notable among these are theories of geometric reasoning, such as the Van Hiele model, as well as theories of interdisciplinary education in STEM and STEAM. These theories provide a solid foundation for understanding how integrating artistic disciplines, such as dance, can influence mathematics learning and activate students' creativity. Method: The methodology adopted for this research includes a pre-post test design using the Van Hiele Test to measure geometric reasoning. The sample consisted of three groups of secondary school students in Colombia. A curricular integration proposal linking dance with mathematics was implemented, and results were evaluated before and after the intervention to determine its impact on geometric reasoning. Results and Discussion: The results revealed significant improvements in students' geometric reasoning following the intervention, with notable gains in visualization and recognition levels according to the Van Hiele Test. In the discussion section, these results are contextualized within the theoretical framework, highlighting how integrating dance into mathematics teaching can overcome fragmented knowledge and increase students' interest in STEAM disciplines. Possible study limitations, such as sample size and intervention duration, are also considered. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing information on how the results can be applied to educational practices to improve performance in STEAM disciplines. These implications could include reformulating school curricula to incorporate interdisciplinary approaches that integrate arts and sciences, particularly in the context of secondary education in Colombia. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating the effectiveness of an innovative proposal that integrates dance into mathematics education to improve geometric reasoning. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by its potential to transform the way STEAM disciplines are taught, offering a more creative and interdisciplinary approach that can motivate more students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.