Seven Reasons for early mathematics education
Early mathematics education is very important, not only for individuals, but also for the economic future of modern societies. The project „Discovery in Numberland“ is based on the conviction that in the 21st century the right of every child to education includes the introduction to the world of numbers and geometrical shapes.
The brains of young children are particularly formable
In the period between the 2nd and the 6th years of life, the human brain has a particularly high capacity to be formed. Neural nets are formed during this period which remain active one’s whole life. It is therefore important to make the most of this early stage for an optimal development of the talents of children.Mathematics education is important for life in the modern world
Every society is responsible for carefully and thoroughly preparing the next generation to live with the conditions of future society. The role played in this process by mathematics education was never so important as in the modern world.Learning mathematics requires a suitable learning environment
Children learn their native language without any particular exertion, and can apply the difficult rules of grammar, almost without any effort, by the age of two or three. Children do not, however, learn the language of mathematics without effort, even when the corresponding natural talent is present. In order to learn mathematics, a stimulating learning environment—a „Numberland“ appropriate for children—must be created.Mathematical understanding is not a rare talent, nor one which requires special natural ability
People living in industrial and knowledge societies in the 21st century can no longer afford to conceive of the amazing ability of the human brain to understand and use mathematics as a rare talent or one which requires a special natural ability, or one which only a small percentage of the population possesses. As with other talents, mathematical talent develops best when all children have the possibility early in life to practice learning and to explore their talents.More people with a particular talent for mathematics will result from broad access to early mathematics education
The example of early music education shows that a broad access to musical training leads to a better development of highly talented musicians than would be possible without the existence of such training. It is therefore to be expected that a similar effect will be seen from early mathematics education with a wholistic approach.A good start in mathematics!
Many adults have memories of struggling with (and disliking) mathematics in school. Through their participation with this project, children should find that getting to know the world of numbers and geometrical forms is a valuable and attainable goal, and one which is associated with positive experiences and fun.Contributing to the development of all the functions of the brain
When one offers children the possibility to discover a vivid world of mathematics which can be visualized in geometrical shapes, and one which is associated with a child-friendly „Numberland“, then one contributes the development of all the functions of the brain.
Visit our presentations and workshops at GESS Dubi 22 - 24 January 2008
