Maths for Einstein’s Universe: Tools for Understanding Modern Reality. Part 1: Rationale

• Published in: International Journal of Innovation in Science and Mathematics Education Vol. 32; no. 6
• Main Authors: Lonshakova, Anastasia, Blair, David, Treagust, David
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 02.08.2025
• ISSN: 2200-4270; 2200-4270
• DOI: 10.30722/32.06.003

Aversion to mathematics is a recognised and widespread problem. Following a review of the literature on this subject, this paper presents an education program which has been developed to test the hypothesis that transferring attention from traditional school arithmetic to a broad range of mathematical skills relevant to modern science at an early age (ages 7-14) will improve students’ attitudes to mathematics, reduce the incidence of maths anxiety and prepare students for mathematics topics normally introduced at more senior levels. The program entitled Maths for Einstein’s Universe includes five modules covering extreme numbers, estimation, probability, vectors, and curved space geometry. All modules are taught through group activities, games, and plays. The modules complement appropriate early learning of modern physical concepts from the subatomic world to cosmology. While connected to science, the program aims to provide meaning and comprehension for socially relevant topics from national budgets to pandemics and opinion polls. The first part of the paper presents an overview of the program, encompassing the motivation for program development, the program's structure, and the teaching approach employed.