Math Education: Encouraging Mediocrity and the Negative Effects of Algebra

[Zarqon]

This is something I've noticed, too, that I just don't get! Why is it so acceptable to be bad at math?

What would people think if they heard someone say, "Oh, reading? I don't read at all, I've always been so bad at reading! I can't read beyond an elementary level -- really! Can someone read this menu aloud for me, heehee?"

Is that really supposed to be cute?!?

/rant


well ok not really /rant because I'm still worked up it really ticks me off!

My guess would be that it's simply a human defense reaction. If you've already realized (even if just unconsciously) that you are not very good at math, and don't want to spend much time on it, then I guess the brain would much rather turn the whole thing into a "choice", like you chose not to learn math (because who needs it anyway) rather than live the rest of your life knowing that you failed it.

 

[Drakkith]

This is something I've noticed, too, that I just don't get! Why is it so acceptable to be bad at math?

I'd guess that it's because most people don't use any math more advanced than basic arithmetic. Combine that with the stereotype of a smart person or scientist being a complete bumbling idiot in "real life" and I can easily see why.

 

[zoobyshoe]

Participate in my poll, people:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=624784

 

[zoobyshoe]

I think a big problem with maths education is that in modern western society it is seen as 'cool' to suck at basic stuff.

It's sour grapes: when the fox couldn't reach the grapes he 'decided' they were probably sour anyway.

 

[DragonPetter]

I think a big problem with maths education is that in modern western society it is seen as 'cool' to suck at basic stuff.
The number of times I've heard someone tell me about how they "can't do maths" in an attempt to impress me or god knows what else.. it's unreal.
I've witnessed the same thing about cooking - someone asks me what I did last night, I tell them I made bolognese or something simple like that and I get regaled with tales about how they manage to burn baked beans.
It's not that I'm trying to be superior to anyone because I can cook and do maths, it's just enfuriating that people seem to think being unable to do simple things is something to brag about..

edit;
dang it, how come I always get to start a new page >.>

It reminds me of an ignorant and superficial version of jante law as an attempt to conform.

 

[Andre]

I think a big problem with maths education is that in modern western society it is seen as 'cool' to suck at basic stuff.

And it seems to be exploited accorcing Noam Chomsky

8. To encourage the public to be complacent with mediocrity

Promote the public to believe that the fact is fashionable to be stupid, vulgar and uneducated…

Thanks for the link, https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?p=4021593#post4021593