math lab

Mathematics is a science or not, it is a open question.THERE IS no doubt that the concept of mathematics laboratory as designed by CBSE to make the subject friendlier is a unique one. But this alone would not produce desired results unless teachers put in efforts to make the subject interesting by using innovative pedagogy. In fact, a family should inculcate love for this discipline in the kid before sending the child to school.

This was the general consensus amongst the mathematicians who converged at a mathematics conference, organised by the Mathematics and Astronomy department of the Lucknow University (LU), here on Saturday.

They said that a parent could encourage a child to do simple calculations by giving biscuits and asking the ward to count it. Later, they can go in for complicated calculations. When the child comes to school, teachers should arouse interest for the subjects by using innovative tools. Speakers were unanimous that time had come to popularize mathematics amongst children.

The mathematicians were of the view that it was not a question of dearth of quality in mathematics teachers, but want of dedication for the subject on the part of the teachers.
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GS Pandey, fellow of the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Shimla, said, “Once we succeed in attracting young minds towards mathematics, half the job is done.” Former IGNOU vice-chancellor HP Dixit laid stress on having a centralised research cell so that other researchers in mathematics might easily know the various research works taking place in the subject.

Dixit also advocated for forming inter-university consortium for mathematics. Mathematicians also debated the fact that lack of job opportunity has also kept bright students away from taking this discipline for higher studies. “So, the onus is on the government to create job opportunities in this field. Else, bright students will run after lucrative and profitable jobs,” warned a spe
aker. The conference was organised in association with the Bharat Ganit Parishad.