Capturing research landscape and foci of mathematical creativity research (1994-2024)

Abstract

Mathematical creativity is one of the most fascinating research topics in mathematics education. Following preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) data retrieval protocol, a total of 235 related publications published from 1994 to 2004 were retrieved from Scopus database. By using Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer, bibliometric analysis was performed to comprehensively capture the research trends in the field of mathematical creativity. The results revealed that the publication and citation trends have been rising over time. The publications were dispersed throughout the five continents. The United States is the most prolific and influential nation, with the greatest number of publications, g-index and h-index. Eight research foci have been identified, namely:
i) student mathematical creativity and their achievement; ii) assessment of students’ mathematical creativity in geometry problem solving; iii) eliciting mathematical creativity; iv) mathematical creativity process; v) assessing of convergent and divergent thinking of gifted students; vi) pre-service teacher mathematical creativity in problem posing and with the aid of technology; vii) mathematical creativity tasks; and viii) mathematical creativity in early childhood. Overall, the findings of this bibliometric analysis are expected to guide researchers in understanding the research pattern over time. This study also provides direction for future research on mathematical creativity.