Write An Essay On The Importance Of Informal Mathematics In Teaching

These characteristics of informal mathematics point out the need of meaning making in learning mathematics and towards a more active role of learner in learning and in solving problems. It also indicates the need of an environment which creates the need of thinking and devising various strategies to arrive at solution. This, further, re-defines role of a teacher teaching in mathematics.

Mathematics may be seen as a science of dealing with the shapes, quantity and logical arrangement. It is placed all around and no one can escape from it. It works as the pillar of our modern day life starting from mobile, building designs, art, time and money and even in sports and other activities. It has been omnipresent since time immemorial and it was,

Many children studying in schools find mathematics difficult, boring, mechanical and rigid. Therefore, a majority of children have a sense of fear and failure regarding mathematics. Hence, they give up early and dropout of serious mathematical learning." (NCF, 2005)

So, School mathematics needs to be taken beyond theoretical knowledge and mechanical calculations. Introduction of informal mathematics in school mathematics education system – in curriculum, in methodologies, and in approaches of teaching mathematics, may be helpful in making mathematics, a relevant, practical meaningful and enjoyable discipline in school education system.

It was curious to know about the calculations performed by the children in various informal places i.e. outside school setting. Investigator wants to understand this particular area of study keeping in view of the following points:-

 To understand the contribution of day-to-day experiences of children out of school in performing mathematical operations.

 To understand the concept formation in such