Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects
Date of Degree
2-2022
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A.
Program
Liberal Studies
Advisor
Jan Valle
Subject Categories
Algebra | Algebraic Geometry | Applied Mathematics | Other Mathematics
Keywords
Numeracy
Abstract
For much of American history, literacy has been prioritized in K-12 education and society, at large, at the expense of numeracy. This lack of numerical emphasis has established innumeracy as an American cultural norm that has resulted in America not producing a sufficient number of numerate citizens, and ranking poorly on mathematical performance in international comparisons. This paper investigates the decisions and circumstances that led to this under prioritization, along with the public and cultural impact of said actions. Toward this end, literature regarding contemporary and historical influences on American mathematics education (e.g., civic, policy, and parental) was reviewed. The research indicates that a general apathy from the government of the early American republic concerning mathematics education, combined with ongoing sexist, ableist, and racially insensitive practices, directly contributed to America’s current predicament with numerical education. America has closed the mathematical opportunity and achievement gap from a gender standpoint, but further work must be done to accomplish the same across race and disability.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Troy, "Prime Factors: America’s Prioritization of Literacy over Numeracy and its Relationship to Systemic Inequity" (2022). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/4697
Included in
Algebra Commons, Algebraic Geometry Commons, Applied Mathematics Commons, Other Mathematics Commons