New research from a study by the University of Missouri shows that the key to improving today’s workforce could lie in elementary school math class
The math skill researchers identified was “number system knowledge,” which is the ability to conceptualize a numeral as a symbol for a quantity and understand systematic relationships between numbers. The study found that having this knowledge at the beginning of first grade predicted better functional mathematical ability in adolescence.
By identifying a specific numerical skill as a target, we can focus education efforts on helping deficient students as early as kindergarten and thereby give them a better chance at career success in adulthood.
Data from the United States Center for Educational Statistics revealed that one in five adults lacks the math competency expected of an eighth-grader.
An early deficit in number system knowledge creates a weak foundation for later learning, which can lead to a lifetime of problems, not limited to reduced employment opportunities.
“Poor understanding of mathematical concepts can make a person easy prey for predatory lenders,” David Geary said. “Numerical literacy, or numeracy, also helps with saving for big purchases and managing mortgages and credit-card debt.” The researchers believe intervention programs designed to overcome this early math deficiency could prepare students for later employment, help them make wiser economic choices and improve the future U.S. workforce.
via LiveScience
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