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Young Child Learning |
All young Americans must learn to think mathematically
“All young Americans must learn to think mathematically and they must think mathematically to learn.” This statement from the National Research Council underscores that today's students will live in a world where the requirements for mathematical proficiency will be substantially higher that they are today. A solid mathematical foundation is not only important in gaining access to college and math and science related careers, but also necessary for full participation in social and economic life.
“These ideas were recently discussed in the FINE Forum, which is a Harvard family research project. They focus on promising practices to engage families and communities in supporting students' mathematical proficiency. A common thread throughout the issue is the effort to bridge the mathematics of daily life with the mathematics of the classroom. In addition, the learning experience must be engaging—puzzling, fun, and challenging. Two parents organize a math night and invite a truck driver and seven other community residents to share the math in their work. A teacher invites pilots to mentor students on the mathematics of flying airplanes. An educational researcher encourages teachers to go out into the community and learn how parents use math in their homes and at work.”
As a community, we need to learn to use new creative strategies to help our children appreciate the value of learning math. » back to top |