THE MULTIPLICATION TABLE TOURNAMENT AS AN ACTIVE METHODOLOGY FOR STRENGTHENING MENTAL CALCULATION AND MATHEMATICS LEARNING IN THE MUNICIPAL SCHOOL SYSTEM OF TIMBIRAS/MA

Abstract

This study analyzes the contributions of the Multiplication Table Tournament as an active methodology implemented in the municipal school system of Timbiras/MA, focusing on strengthening mental calculation and improving mathematics learning in Elementary Education. The research is based on the diagnosis of recurring difficulties in mastering basic operations, especially multiplication, identified in the local school context. Grounded in active, dialogical, and socio-interactionist learning theories, the study draws on the theoretical contributions of Paulo Freire, Lev Vygotsky, and José Moran, as well as the guidelines of the Base Nacional Comum Curricular. Methodologically, this is a qualitative study characterized as an experience report with a descriptive-analytical approach, developed through the implementation of the tournament in three stages (classroom, school, and municipal), articulated with continuing teacher education. The results indicate significant advances in mental calculation fluency, student engagement, academic self-esteem, and the reorganization of pedagogical practices. It is concluded that the Multiplication Table Tournament constitutes a consistent and replicable pedagogical strategy, configured as a municipal educational policy aimed at strengthening mathematics learning.

Keywords: Active methodologies; Mental calculation; Mathematics teaching; Teacher education; Timbiras/MA.