Algebra Necessary for Innovative Thinking

Andrew Hacker, emeritus professor of political science at Queens College, City University of New York, gave his take on algebra education in a New York Times opinion piece in July. He argued for its elimination, claiming that algebra isn’t necessary for students’ future success. Even those who have advanced degrees in STEM subjects are unable … Continue reading Algebra Necessary for Innovative Thinking

Finland, the Quadratic Formula, and Thinking Outside the Box

May 28, 2012 Not many people know that the telecommunications giant Nokia Corporation originated in the small town of Nokia, Finland. Another noteworthy datum about Finland is that Finland scored significantly above the OECD average on the PISA test in all subjects -- reading, mathematics, and science. How did Finland’s students score so well? The Finnish … Continue reading Finland, the Quadratic Formula, and Thinking Outside the Box