MODULE 5. COUNT ME IN!

INTRODUCTION

This module is about using mathematics in everyday life situations in low skilled and low educated adults over the 45 years of age. Do you know a person who cannot find her or his way out of situations where adding or subtracting are needed? Does this person hates calculating percentages and does not trust himself or herself that the results are accurate? This person may be in situation of functional illiteracy. The person can also be a dyslectic, struggling with finding his or her own ways...

Perhaps an improvement in adults’ numeracy skills can be brought about if we first commit ourselves to changing their attitude towards mathematics. Educators should explore their learners’ feelings towards the subject. They should identify their phobias and develop strategies to overcome them. The best way to do it is by applying mathematics to real life situations.