I believe that studying any subject without being interested in it does not work well.

Great results come from great enthusiasm

Many students study Math only because it is a mandatory subject in school and often ask me “Why do i need it?”

Now, I want to answer as comprehensively as possible.

Also I want to help students with a negative attitude to find more interest in this “boring”(only at the first sight) subject.

First of all, there are economical and practical reasons. It is well known fact that High school graduates with advanced Math qualification have higher test scores, attain a higher education and earn a higher income than others*. Also students need to finish high school, get accepted into University, to work in science, financial, IT fields, to know how this world is structured in some parts.

However, I would like to talk about some deeper and hidden aspects of Mathematics and its effect on personality.

I believe that Mathematics not only develops the logical thinking but also and most importantly it trains your mind and soul to make you able:

to concentrate deeply and stay focused for a long period of time.
Proof: otherwise you can not solve hard mathematical problem
to face the truth
Proof: in Mathematics you cannot simply lie to yourself and say “I solved this question correctly!” when you did not. Math is objective.
to be less materialistic
Proof: Mathematics is about abstract thinking and using the imagination.
to see hidden patterns if they exist.
Proof: Mathematics is about deduction from things you know to things you can find out but do not know yet.

NOW: Do you agree that these abilities are the keys to success in any occupation and even in having a happy and healthy life? If you don’t — e-mail me.

Here is a quotation from the article on sociological research by Juanna Schrøter Joensen and Helena Skyt Nielsen, University of Aarhus:**

“...the Math premium indicates that more valuable skills are acquired during Math courses than during other coursework. Skills like clarity in expressions, logical reasoning and inference are acquired and added to the stock of human capital and subsequently make the advanced Math students more productive.”

These hidden things, by my firm belief, are the keys to the lifestyle, true nature, right choices, development… of every person in the world.

References:

  • * Ackerman, D. (2000), Do the Math: high school Mathematics Classes and Lifetime Earnings of Men. Manuscript. U of Wisconsin - Madison.
  • ** “Is there a Causal Effect of High School Math on Labor Market Outcomes?” by Juanna Schrøter Joensen and Helena Skyt Nielsen University of Aarhus and IZA Bonn