THE NURTURE OF MATHEMATICAL TALENT IN SCHOOL THROUGH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES: A review of research literature

Abstract

This research review explores the utilization of digital technologies in enhancing mathematics education for the development of talent and higher-order abilities among lower secondary school students in Sweden. Despite the enactment of legislation in 2010 mandating appropriate instruction for high-achieving students, the law's implementation has been inadequate. Consequently, Sweden exhibits a low proportion of high-achieving students in mathematics as reflected in international large-scale assessments. The avail-ability of interventions aimed at fostering mathematical talent often hinges on local edu-cational policies. Digital technologies—including learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, digital instructional resources, and stand-alone applications—are well-suited for designing enriched learning experiences within heterogeneous classroom settings. Although Swe-dish schools are equipped with substantial digital infrastructure, its potential is not fully realized. Furthermore, existing research highlights conflicts and contradictions in the integration of intelligent tutoring systems within classroom environments. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, encompassing studies on cognition, affect, formal education, mathematics pedagogy, Swedish educational policies, and the application of digital technologies in mathematics education, particularly for gifted stu-dents. The findings underscore the importance of targeted development and deploy-ment of digital technologies for mathematically talented students, recognizing them as a distinct user group. Recommendations for the Swedish educational context include adopting a talent-development perspective in the curriculum and reinforcing this through legislative measures to promote equity and enhance the proportion of high-achieving mathematics students. Additionally, this review introduces a conceptual framework designed to facilitate both the analysis and development of digital techno-logies aimed at nurturing mathematical talent and advanced abilities in education.