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To: Amelia
But if we assume your premise is correct, and math education is inferior because most teachers are female, how do boys still manage to learn?

First of all, no need to assume anything. The SAT data I cited above are absolutely correct & easily verifiable by Internet search.

The fact that men are better at math doesn't necessarily mean that they are also better at teaching math. Teaching involves a different set of skills. (I understand that Einstein was a poor teacher.)

Lastly, the brightest students are capable of learning more than their teachers know.....which has always been true.

33 posted on 08/18/2003 4:01:04 PM PDT by Republic If You Can Keep It
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To: Republic If You Can Keep It
no need to assume anything. The SAT data I cited above are absolutely correct & easily verifiable

I know that boys tend to score higher in math on the SATs...I meant the premise that math education is inferior because of the preponderance of female teachers.

the brightest students are capable of learning more than their teachers know.

I'd say that the majority of students are capable of learning much more than they do - but they don't for a variety of reasons. Some teachers don't enforce high standards because they've bought into the whole "self-esteem" thing, and in some systems they aren't allowed to - at least initially, if the students aren't used to having to work, failure rates will be high, and some administrators don't allow that.

Some students just aren't willing to put in the effort required, regardless.

What a great argument for vouchers!

Yes, at least in places where good private schools are available. I hope I'm wrong, but I'm afraid that vouchers will do the least good for the students who need them most.

35 posted on 08/18/2003 4:34:31 PM PDT by Amelia
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