How Learning Math Changes The Way We Think

For a skill we use so often in daily life, math can have quite a negative reputation. Many people consider math a difficult subject, something abstract and hard to grasp. “Math anxiety” has even become part of the vocabulary used to describe students who grapple with tension and stress that affects their ability to work with numbers!

However, basic math is an undoubtedly useful tool in helping us navigate the world. Why do you need math? Each time we buy a coffee and pay with cash, we use math. Whenever we consider our monthly income and expenses, we use math. Far from the abstract concept we may associate it with (algebra, anyone?), numbers are an essential part of our lives that we usually engage with without even fully realizing.

So what do you learn from mathematics study? Having a solid math education is a highly valued skill for adults in the workforce, bringing with it a whole host of benefits including increased employability and heightened problem-solving skills. Even in roles that don’t seem to require explicit math skills, the associated brain development that comes with studying math lends itself to increased performance in many other fields.

The majority of our math education comes from our school years. Indeed, the best way to construct a good foundation for future math use is through our school education, when our younger brains are willing and ready to learn.

It’s important when discussing how learning math changes the way we think to examine the effects of learning math during our childhood and teen years. These formative years pave the way for how we use our brains as adults. So, what effect does math truly have on our minds? What does learning math do to the brain, exactly? Let’s take a look!

How studying mathematics rewires your brain
A lot of the information available shows a positive link between studying math and increased cognitive performance and brain function. While ongoing research is taking place using advanced scientific methods, there are some things we already know for sure about the benefits that an ongoing math education can have.

Now, to the nitty-gritty details: a recent study by University of Oxford on the link between brain function and math education in teens, using both brain scans and a cognitive assessment, showed some interesting results. Those students who stopped studying math as part of their education at roughly age 16 had a lower amount of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid than those who continued to study math. This word may be a bit of a mouthful, but in essence it’s simply a chemical that is necessary for brain plasticity.

The important thing to note is that this chemical is also active in the part of the brain that deals with problem solving, memory, and reasoning. In fact, researchers from the university’s Department of Experimental Psychology expressed their concern that in light of these findings, ceasing learning math prematurely could put students at a severe disadvantage in other areas of their education. This is because lower levels of this chemical could impact the effectiveness of the brain. It goes to show that math can really have an impact on other aspects of education, as well as everyday brain function – and who doesn’t want to have a great memory, or great problem-solving skills?

So how does math improve critical thinking? As math stimulates the brain, it promotes healthy cognitive function. It’s therefore a healthy and integral part of the education of children, teens, and young adults. In fact, based on this knowledge, scientists can tell the difference between the brain of someone who studies math and someone who does not based on brain scans alone. The science doesn’t lie – having a comprehensive math education can truly affect the mind, although studies are still taking place on the long-term effects of this.

Can math change your mind?
Now that you’ve read this blog post, we’re sure you know the answer to this. There is a plethora of scientific evidence to show that learning math can have many positive impacts on brain development, especially in teens and adolescents.

However, many people struggle with math, even as adults! This is why it’s a great idea to encourage your children to continue their math education in a way that they find enjoyable. This way, they can ensure that they keep their math skills up and are constantly learning.

If your child has suffered from a lag in their math education – perhaps due to COVID-related school closures – you should consider the benefits that come with private tutoring. A little bit of extra help and attention can make a world of difference, and can allow your child to catch up on any school they may have missed during the pandemic.

Teachers1on1 is an excellent choice for finding an online teacher that works for you and your child. With education experts across many different fields, including math, Teachers1on1 offers a flexible, simple, and transparent way to find a tutor who’s the best possible fit for your family. Our professional and highly qualified teachers work to suit a range of incomes, as well as multiple learning styles, so you can be sure to make learning fun again for your child(ren)! For more information on how Teachers1on1 can help your child with their math education, get in touch or join today.

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