JOURNAL ARTICLE

Mathematics education in the time of COVID-19: a public health emergency exacerbated by misinterpretation of data.

  • Published In: Teaching Mathematics & its Applications, 2023, v. 42, n. 4. P. 375 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Sooknanan, Joanna; Seemungal, Terence 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines common misconceptions in interpreting the mathematical terms, metrics, and graphs used to describe the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of mathematical literacy for informed public understanding and compliance with health measures. It discusses challenges in understanding proportional reasoning (fractions, percentages, rates, and ratios), exponential growth, and graphical representations such as linear versus logarithmic scales, highlighting how misinterpretations can lead to underestimating disease spread and risk. The article also notes the potential of online mathematical tools to enhance graph literacy and calls for improved educational strategies to equip learners with the skills necessary to interpret pandemic data accurately, thereby supporting better health decision-making during COVID-19 and future outbreaks.

Additional Information

  • Source:Teaching Mathematics & its Applications. 2023/12, Vol. 42, Issue 4, p375
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Mathematics
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:0268-3679
  • DOI:10.1093/teamat/hrac025
  • Accession Number:174081791
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Teaching Mathematics & its Applications is the property of Oxford University Press / USA and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Looking to go deeper into this topic? Look for more articles on EBSCOhost.