Education of Mathematically Talented Students in Hungary

Abstract

Hungary is famous for its production of large numbers of highly talented mathematicians and physicists. This study explores the Hungarian system for educating mathematically talented secondary school students with the goal of identifying successful features that may be applicable to education in the United States. Highlights of the Hungarian approach include an emphasis on problem solving, problem posing, detailed explanation or proof for solutions, and development of mathematical creativity through the search for multiple solution paths.