Math-ish by Jo Boaler

MATH-ISH by Jo Boaler (Limitless Mind) is a clear, straightforward, and user-friendly text on “Finding Creativity, Diversity, and Meaning in Mathematics.”  Library Journal says, “Recommended for readers both fascinated by and leery of math. Educators who are looking for a different way to approach math will especially benefit from this title.” I heartily concur. Boaler is a well-respected mathematician who is a professor of education and equity at Stanford University and the faculty director of youcubed. In MATH-ISH she offers practical, evidence-based ideas for finding the joy in math as well as improving understanding and performance. The book begins with a series of personal stories, gives examples of applying metacognitive thinking, and then continues with data like the following: “between 10 percent  and 40 percent of people in most countries are innumerate and avoid math as much as possible. These folks are vulnerable every time they need to read a chart.” She goes on to cite studies and to stress that “students with positive attitudes toward their learning achieved at higher levels. Positive attitudes reduce anxiety about learning, enhance motivation, and boost students’ persistence.” Sadly, Boaler had to include a section which deals with the harassment which she and her family endured due to contrived controversy over the basic idea that “students are more interested and more successful when the content they are learning allows them to engage in different ways.” In her final chapter she writes effectively about five principles for becoming an effective change agent: (1) believe in yourself; (2) practice empathy; (3) build a network; (4) investigate, collect and share data; and (5) develop a warrior mindset. Boaler references many scholars and includes extensive notes, making up at least fifteen percent of the text. Attitudes towards math and aptitude for math is a highly relevant topic, given the decline in scores related to COVID’s impact and the debate over which students should take algebra in middle school. MATH-ISH is highly recommended.