Learning 2 Learn
In a rapidly changing world, the ability to learn new things effectively and continuously is more valuable than any specific body of knowledge. If we want our children to succeed, we should focus not on filling them with facts, but on developing their ability to learn effectively and independently. In this sense, “learning to learn” is the motto of the best kind of education.
At the same time, it’s important to recognise that, unlike the humanities, subjects like science and mathematics cannot always be self-taught. While many STEM topics at the senior school level can be studied independently, this is only possible if students have strong foundational knowledge, particularly in mathematics. These foundations must be built before children reach their mid-teen years.
As a maths tutor with years of experience, and a mother of two young adults now studying computing and engineering at university, I can confidently say it’s unrealistic to expect young children to solve maths problems effectively without proper supervision. Young learners require many hours of support from both teachers and parents. However, if we teach mathematics well from an early age, more complex concepts begin to feel natural. As children grow older, gain confidence, and become more independent, adult support can be gradually reduced.
Moreover, the analytical skills children develop through learning mathematics give them a strong advantage in other subjects.
If we succeed in opening our children’s minds and teaching them to think logically and creatively, they will be capable of teaching themselves anything they wish to learn in the future.
