Dive Brief:
- Math and computer science are related in various ways, including the fact that both are rooted in understanding and communication through abstract language.
- An op-ed in Edutopia says the abstract programming languages used in coding are very similar to the mathematical language, and that teaching one should consider the other.
- Because success in computer science requires math skills, math education in grades K-12 should be reconsidered, including critical thinking and reasoning skills.
Dive Insight:
As coding classes expand in American classrooms and critical thinking across subjects is encouraged, districts should keep in mind the various real-world overlaps between the subjects. For math and computer science, certain principles and skills can be taught together. Most recently, Oracle donated $200 million for computer education in support of President Obama's Computer Science for All initiative. Google, Microsoft, Salesforce and code.org have also supported the initiative.
Yet in many states, students lag behind. Experts say coding instruction should start for students as young as five, and in some places, like San Francisco, CS initiatives start in preschool. It's also important for school leaders to pay attention to race and gender gaps when it comes to coding and STEM learning. Research from the National Assessment of Educational Progress has shown the achievement and confidence gap in science and math begins widening between boys and girls as early as age nine.
