Why is Learning Math Important?
By: Lucy Huo
September 20, 2020
In the modern mathematics classroom, teachers are often faced with the question: “When are we ever going to use this in our everyday lives?” Though the question may originally arise from a student’s frustration, it is a valid question with important implications. While many may feel at loss for an answer, there are many unrecognized benefits of learning mathematics at a young age. Namely, early proficiency allows for students to acquire problem-solving skills and better understand the world around them.
Firstly, learning math is beneficial to cognitive development. Studies have shown that children who perform well in math are also more likely to be attentive and make decisions efficiently. In addition, math allows students to utilize their analytical thinking and think critically about real-world situations. Much like athletes exercise in the weight room prior to stepping on the field, students’ participation in mathematics serves as “weightlifting” for the brain. In short, math helps your brain get stronger.
Subjects like algebra, trigonometry, and calculus often require the use of logical reasoning when solving problems. When answering a math question, we must understand the context of the problem and identify the steps that must be taken in order to solve that problem. In this way, math is quite similar to decision-making in the adult world. As human beings, we are faced with many decisions, and we must use logical reasoning in order to make the choices that will best benefit ourselves and those around us. Mathematics allows us to practice and develop the analytical skills required to make these decisions most effectively.
Furthermore, a lot of math concepts can be applied to everyday tasks, in situations where we may not even realize. While some STEM careers require many mathematical calculations on a daily basis, this is not the case for all careers. Even then, math is all around us. We use math to tell time, to calculate tip amounts at restaurants, to make change at cash registers, to measure baking ingredients, to find the best sale while clothes shopping, and much more. In all of these cases, math can improve a person’s competence in everyday, seemingly-math-unrelated tasks.
NECEF hopes to best prepare students for their future by teaching students the necessary problem-solving and reasoning skills that arise from a solid foundation in mathematics. Our organization offers virtual , free of charge, so that students can increase their proficiency and knowledge in these areas. As a result, they will be better equipped to succeed in school and in the future.