Everardo Lara Gonzalez: Ethnomathematics Educator and Cultural Promoter

• In Event: Teaching, Learning, Empowering: Profiles of Educators

Abstract

This study discusses the life of Everardo Lara as educator of ethno-mathematics and the use of the mathematical instrument known as the Nepohualtzitzin and its relationship to traditional dance in Anáhuac culture. Analysis includes the historical antecedents of the discovery of the Nepohualtzitzin as a mathematical instrument within the Náhuatl culture. While mention of the existence of the Nepohualtzitzin can be found in early Spanish historical documents, the physical discovery of the Nepohualtzitzin instrument did not take place until the 1960s. It was introduced as a teaching model and strategy in Mexican schools in the 1980s and adapted in select San Antonio, Texas schools in the 1990s. Currently several San Antonio school districts have established after-school Nepo math clubs.

Author

• Armando L. Trujillo, The University of Texas - San Antonio