Kevin Miller, Professor of Psychology & Education

Why Math is Hard for So Many Americans, and What Parents Can Do About It

Abstract: Mathematics is a daunting subject for many Americans. This talk attempts to bring together evidence from several fields to explain the source of this problem and what can be done about it. Professor Kevin Miller argues that there is some indication that this is a relatively recent phenomena. Poor understanding of mathematics reflects features of the English language, beliefs about learning, changing educational practices, and the place of mathematics in the overall ecology of ways that children might spend their time.

Mathematical development is the product of children’s own activity as well as the interventions that parents and schools provide. Therefore parents, teachers, media, and policy makers, as well as children have a role to play in improving mathematical competence. This talk will include some of the things parents can do to make mathematics more meaningful and engaging for their children (and perhaps for themselves, as well).

Stream talk here.

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