Politically Scientific Math

Accuracy in Academia ^ | March 10, 2016 | Malcolm A. Kline

[Do the math]

When I teach algebra or any math class, I bring the real world into the classroom. I use rubber bands to get logarithms. I use toy cars to get quadratic functions. I use pvc pipe and marbles to do composite functions. I do not teach mathematics like anyone else. I convince my students that algebra is useful, and is worth learning. My students leave my class with the knowledge that algebra is used in the real world.

Math is not for everyone, and I get that. However, I do not consider anyone educated if they have never studied history. You need mathematics to be considered an educated person just like you need history.

I hated geometry when I was in high school, yet now most of my current research has been in geometry. You never know what knowledge you will need in the future. Now I am thankful that I took geometry in high school.

[blueunicorn6]

You are doing a great job of teaching.