Education – The Conversation
US math education inequitable; socioeconomically advantaged learners outperform disadvantaged peers. Policymakers focus on test scores, grades, advanced course availability. Researcher advocates for mathematical power development: confidence, practical decision-making ability. Student case study: high achievement, math anxiety, lack of practical math skills. Only 37% US adults possess math skills for routine decisions. Math education often seen as unengaging, outdated, disconnected. High math anxiety levels, particularly among marginalized groups. Proposed solutions: foster positive math identities, modernize math content, align state policies and requirements. Goal: mathematical power, not just equal test scores.