Konnor Peters, a lecturer and head of the Mathematics Department at Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College in Granville, St. James, has announced that this year’s Sharpe Mathematics Conference will prioritize the importance of early childhood education in mathematics.
Peters explained that the recurring low pass rates in mathematics at both the secondary and primary school levels, as well as the decreasing interest among teachers in specializing in the subject, were key reasons for the conference’s creation.
“Many students struggle with mathematics because they don’t see its relevance in everyday life,” Peters said. “We want to change that mindset and encourage teachers to make math more relatable to students.”
This year’s conference, scheduled for November 13 at Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College, will focus on reigniting interest in mathematics among teachers. It will include teachers from basic schools to help improve their enthusiasm for the subject.
The theme of the conference is “Applying the Fix – Connecting the Disconnected,” and it will bring together around 300 educators from early childhood institutions, primary schools, and secondary schools across western Jamaica.
Dr. Andrew Hunte, head of the School of Humanities and Education at the University of the West Indies, Five Islands Campus, will deliver the keynote address. He will be joined by local mathematics experts recognized for their outstanding teaching.
The one-day event will feature three primary breakout sessions:
1. Building Connections in Mathematics: This session will help teachers learn how to make math more engaging and meaningful for students.
2. Fostering a Positive Attitude Toward Math: Teachers will explore ways to restore confidence and improve performance in mathematics.
3. Reigniting Enthusiasm for Math: This session will focus on how to rekindle excitement for mathematics among both students and educators.
Peters highlighted the need for educators and students to engage more deeply with mathematics, particularly as the subject plays a crucial role in modern technological fields like computer programming, app development, and artificial intelligence.
“There is a growing demand for skills in these areas, and mathematics is the foundation on which technology is built,” Peters emphasized.
In 2023, the pass rate for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) mathematics exam reached 43%, the highest since 2021, marking a 6% improvement over 2022. Despite this progress, Peters stressed that more needs to be done to ensure both students and educators understand the importance of mathematics in shaping future career opportunities.
According to data from the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), the increase in pass rates is a positive sign, but the need for continued focus on improving math education remains crucial for future success in technology-driven fields.
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