Reflection on Citizenship Education in the Context of School Mathematics

In this article, Simmt talks about how mathematics education can link to citizenship education. Most people don’t think math can relate to our society mostly because the math education they received in school is plainly about calculations, steps, procedures, and rules without knowing why. Even me, I have this kind of experience as well. So, it is crucial for teachers to give the students the ideas that mathematics is part of our everyday life and society, and get rid of the assumption that math is nothing to do with our life. Also, one of the good methods to teach students about critical thinking is through mathematics. Critical thinking and problem solving skills are so critical since we encounter problems in different situations everyday. Simmt offer some really usual strategies we can use during the lecture, such as posing problems using variable-entry prompts, the demand for explanation, and mathematical conversations. I will provide students with challenge questions which need more thoughts, analysis, and explanations. Following by group discussion and sharing ideas that focus on “how” they get to the answer instead of “what” is the answer. As a teacher candidate, it’s useful to see how mathematics education can support citizenship education.