Divination: Using Excel to explore ethnomathematics

Abstract

This paper presents the way Microsoft Excel is used as a tool to explore properties of the sikidy divination system used in Madagascar. This is an example of how topics of ethnomathematics can be investigated using a technological tool. We simulated the construction of the mother-sikidy and used tools from Excel to present its properties graphically. We considered a generalization of the sikidy divination system and realized that some properties still hold. Using the technology provides opportunities to persevere in solving mathematical problems.