Advancing Mathematics for Democratic Citizenship as a Foundation for a Mathematics Education

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 1
  In Roundtable Session: Curriculum, Teaching, and Citizenship Development

Abstract

In this paper, I take the stance that all school subjects should contribute not only to individual success, but to the success of society. From this assumption, I explore the mathematics of participation in a democratic society, using the United States as an example. I offer a preliminary conceptualization of three core purposes of a mathematics education, setting democratic participation on equal footing with the currently emphasized college and career readiness. I then analyze more closely the mathematical demands of democratic participation, focusing on the core functions of citizenship such as jury duty and voting and representation. I conclude by reflection on the relationship between the mathematical demands of citizenship and typical, current mathematics education offerings.

Author

• Megan E. Staples, University of Connecticut