Flashes of Mathematical Creativity in Choice-Affluent Learning Situations

This conference talk explores the phenomenon of "flashes of creativity" in mathematics education, where students who aren't typically recognized as mathematically talented suddenly demonstrate moments of brilliance. Boris Koichu from the Weizmann Institute of Science presents case studies illustrating these unexpected creative moments and analyzes them through two theoretical frameworks: the 4P creativity model (Product, Person, Process, and Press) and the S&C (Shifts and Choices) perspective on problem solving. Learn how studying these spontaneous creative instances can provide valuable insights for mathematics educators seeking to nurture creativity and mathematical talent in their students. The presentation includes research references and builds on previous work by Palatnik & Koichu (2019) and Rhodes (1961).