This chapter discusses the historical and social relevance of mathematics, from its earliest records to its central role in 21st-century society. Despite its importance for daily life and access to scientific and technological careers, mathematics remains among the subjects with the highest rates of difficulty, failure, and school dropout. The text addresses the notion of mathematical literacy and defends the need to develop fundamental skills from basic education onwards. It also proposes Behavior Analysis as a promising perspective for teaching and evaluating mathematical skills, highlighting the importance of identifying the student’s initial repertoire and systematic teaching. Specific difficulties are discussed, such as Specific Learning Disorder, with emphasis on dyscalculia, characterized by impairments in number sense, calculation, and mathematical reasoning. Finally, the chapter examines math anxiety, its emotional, cognitive, and behavioral components, and its impacts on students’ academic performance and trajectory.

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Importance of Learning Mathematics in 21st Century Society

  • Ailton Barcelos da Costa,
  • Alessandra Daniele Messali Picharillo,
  • Nassim Chamel Elias

摘要

This chapter discusses the historical and social relevance of mathematics, from its earliest records to its central role in 21st-century society. Despite its importance for daily life and access to scientific and technological careers, mathematics remains among the subjects with the highest rates of difficulty, failure, and school dropout. The text addresses the notion of mathematical literacy and defends the need to develop fundamental skills from basic education onwards. It also proposes Behavior Analysis as a promising perspective for teaching and evaluating mathematical skills, highlighting the importance of identifying the student’s initial repertoire and systematic teaching. Specific difficulties are discussed, such as Specific Learning Disorder, with emphasis on dyscalculia, characterized by impairments in number sense, calculation, and mathematical reasoning. Finally, the chapter examines math anxiety, its emotional, cognitive, and behavioral components, and its impacts on students’ academic performance and trajectory.