Introductions to Pure Mathematics

Davidson Gifted Perspectives is a video series that examines a number of different gifted-related issues and viewpoints.

During a recent virtual event focused on developing talent in mathematics, a parent shared their observation that math curriculums at school often don’t match what career mathematicians actually work on. Where curriculums focus on mastering steps to solve problems, mathematicians use more logic, intuition, and pattern recognition to solve problems. Most math books or papers don’t present strategies and methods to solve problems, only the solutions. This parent emphasized that they’d like to set their student up for success early by helping them to develop a deeper understanding of math—rather than just helping them improve at following mechanical steps to solve problems.

Here’s our Director of Family Services, to share her thoughts and insights.

Resources mentioned:

• Mathematically Gifted Students: How Can We Meet Their Needs?
  
• Developing Mathematical Talent
  
• Online Math Program Comparison
  
• Finding an Advanced Tutor or Mentor for Your Gifted Child
  
• The Lukeion Project 
  
• Hoagies Gifted Math Resources 
• Living Math Book Lists