Developing Mathematical Promise and Creativity

In today's world, it is not enough to be proficient at computation or at memorizing rote procedures to solve routine problems. These skills are important, but even more important are the abilities to recognize and define problems, generate multiple solutions or paths toward solution, reason, justify conclusions, and communicate results. These are not abilities that one is born with and they do not generally develop on their own. For students to become gifted, promising, and creative mathematicians, these talents must be cultivated and nurtured.