Greek Mathematical Society accuses Gavroglou of debasing math education
- Written by E.Tsiliopoulos
"With a smattering of algebra and without geometry, the Ministry of Education cultivates mathematical illiteracy and the cognitive degradation of schools," noted a statement by the Greek Mathematical Society, letting loose barbs against the Minister of Education, Kostas Gavroglou after the decision not to include math lessons in the 1st and 2nd Lyceum (high school) examinations, while there was already a reduction in math courses in the Gymnasium (junior high school).
In particular, in the 2nd Lyceum no one will be examined in Geometry, while in Algebra only the students of the theoretical direction and students following the orientation of mathematics of the positive direction. Accordingly, only Physics, Chemistry, and not Biology, will be examined in the 1st Lyceum, which will return in the 2nd Lyceum grade.
"With an unfathomable decision, the Ministry of Education plans to alter the scientific content of mathematical education. By ignoring the Plato Academy's motto "let no one ignorant of geometry enter," and ignoring both the complex evolution of mathematical science and the modern approaches of mathematical education, they proceed to a novel fragmentation and demeaning of school mathematics from their epistemological reference" noted the announcement.
"The retrograde is unprecedented. Those who agree to the dissolution of the Lyceum will be accountable to future generations because they jeopardize the future of Greece," it said.
