The perception of whether Maths in schools is easier now compared to the 1980s and 1990s can vary based on individual experiences and regional differences. However, there are a few factors to consider first when examining this question:
1. Curriculum Changes: Math curricula have evolved over the years, with new methods and approaches being introduced. Depending on the educational system and location, changes in curriculum might lead to differences in how Maths is taught and learned. Some newer methods emphasize conceptual understanding and real-world applications, which can make certain aspects of Maths more accessible.
2. Technology Integration: The availability of technology, such as calculators, phones and educational software, has changed how Maths is taught and learned. While technology can aid in calculations, it has also led to discussions about whether students are relying too heavily on tools and not developing strong mental Maths skills.
3. Teaching Strategies: Educators today have access to a wider range of teaching strategies and resources, which can contribute to more varied and effective methods of instruction. This might result in a more engaging and supportive learning environment for some students.
4. Access to Resources: With the rise of the internet, students today have access to a wealth of online resources, tutorials, and educational videos that can help them understand and practice Maths concepts outside of the classroom.
5. Emphasis on Conceptual Understanding: Many educational systems now place a greater emphasis on understanding the underlying concepts of Maths rather than just rote memorization. This shift can make Maths more intuitive for some students.
6. Inclusion and Differentiation: There’s a growing recognition of the importance of meeting the diverse needs of students. Differentiated instruction and support services are more prevalent today, allowing educators to address various learning styles and abilities.
7. Global Comparisons: Maths education varies greatly across different countries and regions. Some educational systems have made significant improvements in Maths instruction, while others might face challenges.
It’s worth noting that while some aspects of Mathematics education might be more accessible or comprehensible today due to changes in curriculum and teaching methods, the overall perception of whether Maths is easier can be subjective. Maths can still be challenging for many students, and difficulty can vary based on the specific topics being taught, individual learning styles, and the level of engagement and effort put into learning the subject.
From my own personal experiences from back in the day, I could ‘do’ Maths but I didn’t necessarily understand what I was actually doing. I recall asking my Maths teacher, Mrs Coyle, what dy/dx meant and her exact response was: “Shut up Robert, just follow what I’m doing and you’ll get the marks in the exam. You don’t need to understand it, just follow the process.”
I’ve been teaching Maths for 20 years and I have seen exam papers evolve quite radically. A GCSE Maths paper from 1998 is quite different to one from 2023. You could rote learn your way to an ‘A’ or ‘B’ in 1998 but that same approach doesn’t work anymore. You need to conceptually understand your way to an ‘A’ nowadays. The way they ask a question about Fractions in 2023 is ten times harder than how they asked you about Fractions 25 years ago. Yes they have taken out really difficult trigonometry concepts but did we ever understand them in the first place!
In conclusion, while there have been changes and advancements in Maths education since the 1980s and 1990s, the perception of whether Maths is easier now is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including curriculum changes, teaching strategies, technology, and individual experiences.
Overall, I feel it’s just as difficult today to achieve a top mark (or even just pass) in GCSE/A-level/IB Maths than it was 25 years ago. Has it got easier? The content might not be as hard but it’s the way they ask it!
What’s your thoughts on your child’s Maths compared to your time in school….back in the day? Please comment below.