The abstraction problem
“Mathphobia” is a difficult mindset to overcome. The problem is particularly pernicious because it is so easy to simply give up and join the legions who also “suck at math”. It interesting that there is a certain popular status. Inability to do math almost becomes a badge of pride.
Pursuing math problems that are relevant to the students is an obvious solution. But there has to be more than that. Easing students into the core concepts of math with visual and engaging presentations in order to generate early confidence defines what this problem is about.
TweetExample for "The abstraction problem":
https://bank.ecampusontario.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screenshot_2020-06-29-Ontario-Extend-Learner-Challenge-Bank.png
