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Mathematics and Life 94 Individual differences and mathematics education

 Individual differences and mathematics education


Background - With the spread of the spirit of liberty, equality, the ideas that dominated the French Revolution, Individualism started getting recognition as stand alone philosophy. As against the in vogue supremacy of the state over the individual, factory owners over the workers, it was being increasingly realised that one size fits all is not a very viable idea. Different key skills were identified and people were evaluated, differentiated and treated individually which gave good results in the industry.


Like all other ideas from business, this too was implemented in the school set ups. It was realised that individuals can be different in practically every way. Even two siblings are completely different from one another. Differences between two students could be on account of heredity, environment, socio-economic status, intelligence, height, skin, weight. The teacher needs to keep these possible differences in mind while dealing with her students. 


The parents too need to be educated on the importance of recognising each child as an individual having her own qualities, virtues, gifts and limitations. Parents and teachers alike should avoid simplistic arguments like comparing students’ scores, giving the same, theoretical sermons on moral behaviour.


Coming to mathematics education, individual differences could on one or of the following dimensions - 


  • Previous content knowledge

  • Learning style

  • Earlier experiences of the subject

  • Skill level on different topics

  • Preferred topics 

  • Dominant domain - reading, writing, drawing, actual practice

  • Level of help needed

  • Basic nature - quiet, bubbling, indifferent

  • Comfort level in discussing study related issues

  • Self learner, guided learner, needs hand holding

  • Speed of answering - in the class, on the sheet


If each mathematics teacher is able understand these key performance indicators for her all students and helps them to help themselves, students’ attitude towards mathematics will change for the better.


Free Support In case you are stuck with some current or past sheet or concept and wish to clear your doubts, I will be publicly available on 


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Premium support  Individual, one on one, support for learning / revising / doubts clearing available on a case to case basis. Starting from 500/- per consultation, different services can be availed by contacting 8085906962 for appointment (5 pm to 8 pm Monday to Friday)


Dr Prakash Moghe

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drpnmoghe@gmail.com





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