Innumerate Britain

As a teacher, I like to keep up to date with the latest educational issues and debates. Last week, the BBC published this article stating that a large proportion of adults today have limited numerical skills and have (as usual) put the blame on schools.


Along with the article was this video entitled 'Could you do this calculation?' It shows a number of adults being approached to solve a simple calculation. Only one could.

I don't know about you, but I'm not aware of any educated adult who could not solve this calculation or would struggle to understand a payslip or a train timetable.Maybe that's the key word here- educated, which leads nicely to the crucial question: why are teachers always to blame?


The fact that most of the adults I know would have no problems with this calculation has got me thinking. I consider myself a well educated individual with a good background. Although the social demographics of my home town vary, it's generally a 'good area' within the country. So just who did the BBC ask? Have they exaggerated the fact that the more 'socially deprived' may struggle with mathematical concepts? (Which is no secret, nor a revelation)


The article explores the fact that it is due to a problem with engagement in numeracy. It claims that both children and adults struggle to enjoy Maths, referring to this as a 'British Disease'. In my opinion, this is not the case. I have taught plenty of children who enjoy Maths and excel in this area. From what I've seen in schools, these children tend to be the more competitive children, the children who will do well anyway. So what do the children who 'don't get it' do? Sit in silence, reluctant to ask for help. Also, nothing new. 


According to the DFES, it is 'undertaking a root-and-branch review of how maths is taught in schools, attracting the best maths graduates into the profession'. My problem here is, even if their subject knowledge is strong, how will their pedagogical knowledge support this? Teachers know how to do the calculations themselves. It's not hard. The teaching strategies are where challenges arise, along with behaviour issues and differentiation. So is an academic with a first class honors degree in Mathematics from Oxford really going solve this issue?


Maths teaching is changing all the time. To engage a child, they first need to feel comfortable and respected. Respect given is respect gained, and that applies in a teacher-child relationship just like any other. 


I guess what I'm saying is, stop scrutinizing every aspect of the education system today. Although it is flawed, it is also very effective for those who want to and can succeed. Maybe we need to examine the support the government is giving to less educated parents? It may be too late for them, but not for their children.


I'm wondering if anybody can shed some light here? If you can then comment below, feedback is appreciated! 


I realise this sounds like a massive rant, so I'll leave you with a totally un-related question to reignite your brains: 
If Pinnochio stated 'my nose will now grow', but he was lying, would it grow?