Summary and Reflection of Battleground Schools: Mathematics Education

     The battle between   Conservative mathematics education and progressive mathematics education started at 1900.As Susan states that these two rivals have philosophical differences in their dichotomies that ground opposing arguments in at least 12 areas of interest. Throughout 20^th century, there have been three major movements stand out in different period of the history in North America.

     These three movements are the progressivist for mathematics through activity and inquiry, the New Math reform movement of the 1960’s, and the so-called “Math Wars”, based on NCTM Standards reforms. Despite the philosophical differences of them, each movement has its times in the history due to the different political environment, view of nature and location of knowledge, democratization of education, and authority and obedience.

     Progressivist reform (circa 1910-1940), led by John Dewey, embraced the problematic and a degree of uncertainty as the incentive for students to form and test hypotheses and perceive patterns and relationships. On the other hand, Edward G.Begle’s “The New Math” dominated during 1960’s, which introduced some university mathematics into K-12 systems; however, it failed to meet the needs of all students. Finally, from 1990’s to present, the traditionalist and the progressivist , fueled by several special interested groups along with the media have taking the Math Wars over the NCTM Standards to the spot light of national stage in US.

     I have never had an opportunity to take a close look at the historical, political, and philosophical background of the battle until I have read Susan’s article. As a new math teacher candidate of the 21^st century, I do have my own philosophical ground on the issue of how math should be taught and what kind of math curricula should be introduced at our secondary and elementary schools. But I think that no matter how drastic the social and political environments are changing, our students should not be the only casualty in this political and philosophical battle. I urge that all parties involved  in this battle should take collaborated efforts, use some genuine ideas to find a common ground over the issue and find a balance of the two extreme( Con VS Pro) to meet the needs of every students so that our students are able to compete with their international counterparts.