Changing our perspective on space: Place mathematics as a human endeavour

This paper collates some of the systematic ways that different cultural groups refer tospace. In some cases, space is more strongly identified in terms of place than in schoolIndo-European mathematics approaches. The affinity to place does not reduce the efficient,abstract, mathematical system behind the reference but it does strengthen its connection tothe real world of place. This review of research uses a critical approach to develop anecocultural perspective on spatial referencing. It refers to studies on the PolynesianWayfinders; the Garma project at Yirrakala in the Northern Territory of Australiaidentifying Yolgnu sense of position; original field data mainly from Papua New Guinea;and on the work of linguists who have recorded and analysed the ancient languages of thePacific region. The paper provides the mathematics educator with a richer perspective onposition and a way of understanding the thinking of students with language and culturalbackgrounds other than English. The Indigenous languages of Australia form a basis forways of thinking spatially for specific groups of Indigenous students.