Role of creativity and innovation in mathematics learning: A case of special education

Education is seen as central in fostering creative and innovative skills. Creativity and innovation are very important aspects of learning mathematics in education. This study explores the impact of creativity and innovation on mathematics learning in special education. Despite challenges in mathematics education, integrating creativity and innovation can enhance students with special needs' problem-solving skills. Creativity and innovation can be applied in special education through student motivation approaches, such as creativity-integrated mathematics instruction. The study used a mixed-method research design to investigate the effects of creativity and innovation on mathematics problem-solving skills and teachers' perceptions. Data were collected from 92 grade 8 special needs students and 10 grade 8 mathematics teachers in special schools in Gauteng, South Africa, to determine the impact of creativity-integrated mathematics instruction on students' skill levels, classroom practices, and teachers' perceptions of creativity and innovation in mathematics education. Findings indicate a significant difference between students in high-impact and low-impact classrooms, with those in the former demonstrating higher creativity and innovation skills. Findings further indicate that teachers’ perceptions of creativity-integrated mathematics instruction have a significant positive effect on their creative classroom practices. Recommendations included teacher training, resource development, and policy support for creativity in special education. Findings contribute to the global discussion on the need for creativity, innovation, and inclusion in special education by providing empirical insights into how creative-integrated mathematics instruction can mediate creative thinking, creative problem-solving, engagement, and influence teachers' classroom practices for students with special needs.