Math & Education Articles

Math & Education Articles

Improving education is an ongoing endeavor. Educators all over the world can share ideas through TED Talks, articles, and more, and we have found a selection of ideas to be particularly inspiring. Read on to share the knowledge of what other educators experience, learn, and research in the effort to always make education more accessible and rewarding for students of all ages.

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This is a fantastic article that outlines the ways to make math more natural - more second nature - for students. It encourages the use of mathematics in everyday life in a more playful environment by singing, dancing, drawing, even playing in the mud to make math come alive. By allowing playful environments for children to envision the formulation and solution of a problem in something that they are interested in, they then call upon mathematics as a supplemental tool in learning more about themselves and their environment. "Applied math, especially as it relates it a child’s needs and interests, is the bridge to mathematical success." Read Natural Math: 100+ Activities and Resources, written by Laura Grace Weldon.

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This insightful article explains how subtle differences in engaging students in mathematical conversations can help young minds develop more creative, exploratory, advanced mathematical mindsets."When elementary teachers encourage students to ask questions, make observations, and tackle problems in inventive ways, they create an environment that supports creative mathematical thinking." Read MindShift: How We Learn, written by Deborah Farmer Kris.

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An enlightening article about the subtle difference between a Growth Mindset and a Fixed Mindset: providing positive feedback for a student's resilience and ability to work through challenges has tremendously greater impact on their learning experience than praising them for "being smart". This is an essential component of powerful math education. Read about the One Little Change you can make, written by Angie Aker.

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This inspirational article about the "pioneering math educator and curriculum designer” Maria Droujkova who believes that children need to be engaged in the more playful, creative aspect of mathematics instead of the rigorous repetitious drills that turns so many individuals off from math at such a young age. Read 5-Year-Olds-Can-Learn-Calculus, written by Luba Vangelova.

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Helping children identify and work through their emotions at a young age can have significant and positive long-term impacts on their personal growth and academic performance. Read Should Emotions Be Taught In Schools? to learn more.

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The Department of Mathematics at Yale University invites families every Sunday to explore and discuss mathematics together. There is no previous knowledge of mathematics required and no expectations, making the learning environment relaxed, approachable, and rewarding. Read It all adds up: Sundays + Math Mornings = A Formula for Fun to learn more. 

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