The results of a recent survey conducted by the Global Strategy Group revealed that Americans are largely dissatisfied with K-12 math education. A majority of respondents both ranked math as the most important subject and as the subject most in need of updating. These findings raise an important question – how can we improve math educated in the US?
While the data collection was conducted by the research firm Global Strategy Group, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation funded the survey as part of a larger project to investigate the public’s perceptions of math. Respondents included parents, teachers, and the general public.
Overall, people want to see a more engaging, relevant K-12 math curriculum that applies to the real world. Many also believe that K-12 education should prepare kids for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. The study found that nearly 3 in 4 people believe math is “very important for preparing students for the real world.”
When asked to describe their view of an “ideal K-12 math education,” respondents most often answered with “relevant to the real world,” “useful,” “focused on creative problem-solving,” and “engaging.”
The Gates Foundation suggests that now is a great time to rethink math instruction in K-12 education as school teachers continue to catch their students up from time lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although, the foundation acknowledges that many schools lack the resources for curriculum development and training needed for changes.
The Gates Foundation is on a mission to improve mathematics education in the US. The survey’s findings support the need for the foundation’s mission, which includes:
Over half of the respondents agreed that students who succeed in math at school are more likely to succeed later in life. The importance of mathematics education in the United States cannot be overlooked.
Here at Math & Movement, we agree with the findings of the survey and believe that K-12 math education can and should be improved. In fact, our goals align pretty closely with those of the Gates Foundation. We have confidence that every student can be successful in math with the proper learning techniques.
We offer high-quality materials that promote a unique approach to learning – using kinesthetic activities. Adding movement into lessons will help students learn foundational math skills vital to success. In addition to our materials, we have a large offering of lesson plan ideas and professional development opportunities. Get started with improving your math curriculum today.
How would you improve math education in the US? What would your ideal K-12 math education look like? Let us know what’s important to you in the comments!
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