Everything starts with matematics

 ESWM 2021-1-TR01-KA220-SCH-000032799

Introduction

The global education landscape has faced its most significant challenge yet with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the hardest-hit areas, mathematics education has seen its share of struggles, particularly for students grappling with learning difficulties in this subject. Addressing this pressing issue, a visionary project is taking shape—a Mobile Application that not only supports students facing mathematics learning challenges but also extends a helping hand to individuals of all ages aiming to strengthen their mathematical skills.

Understanding the Challenge

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted education on an unprecedented scale. A report released by UNICEF in August 2020 disclosed the startling fact that almost one-third of school-age children globally, totaling a staggering 463 million, found themselves unable to access distance education due to the pandemic's repercussions. Additionally, a United Nations report from April revealed that, by mid-April, 94% of students worldwide had experienced the disruptive effects of the pandemic. This massive group encompassed approximately 1.58 billion children and young adults ranging from kindergarten to higher education. Even kindergarten education wasn't spared, with nearly 40 million children missing out on this crucial foundation due to the pandemic.

The consequences of this educational disruption extend far beyond the immediate setbacks. The OECD's warning in September 2020 underscores the long-term economic ramifications resulting from damage to education systems. The resultant loss of competencies is anticipated to translate into a 1.5% decline in a country's gross national expenditures (GDP). In fact, the report "Effects of COVID-19 on Education" goes as far as to predict that this meltdown could equate to a staggering 69% loss of an average country's GDP over the next 80 years.

Project Overview

In the face of these formidable challenges, an innovative project is determined to tackle this crisis head-on. At its core, the project focuses on developing processes that enable students, particularly those grappling with Mathematics Learning Difficulty (Dyscalculia), to bridge their learning gaps in mathematics. At the heart of this initiative is the creation of a Mobile Application, a potent tool for independent learning that transcends the conventional classroom experience.

The core theme of this project revolves around prioritizing students with mathematical learning difficulties within the project's target group. However, it also extends its reach to individuals of all ages who may feel less confident in their fundamental mathematics skills. This Mobile Application aspires to be a transformative force, providing a lifeline to those who seek to enhance their mathematical prowess.

Project Objectives

The key objectives of this transformative project are as follows:

Develop a Mobile Application that incrementally elevates students' mathematical proficiency through an inductive approach.

Utilize the Mobile Application, the project's intellectual cornerstone, to identify students with Mathematics Learning Difficulties. This will be primarily accomplished through the innovative 'Dyscalculia Separator,' a diagnostic tool developed by Butterworth. This tool, comprising a set of timed items, not only diagnoses Dyscalculia but also assesses students' mathematical abilities.

Following the diagnosis of Dyscalculia using the Mobile Application, the project will roll out a comprehensive curriculum that spans six levels. These levels are designed to enhance students' mathematical skills and will be executed by project partners hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds and educational systems.

The Mobile Application will be available in all program countries' languages, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for individuals of all ages.

The Aristotelio Secondary School, plays a pivotal role in realizing this project's aspirations. With a commitment to excellence in education, the Aristotelio Secondary School trives to contribute significantly to the project's goals. Our dedication and expertise will serve as a catalyst in the development of the Mobile Application, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of educational quality and accessibility.

Project Implementation

The project features a diverse consortium of partners, including the Karaman Provincial Directorate for National Education, serving as the project coordinator, an Italian university, four other organizations representing Spain, Czechia, Portugal, and Greece, and several secondary schools.

The project's implementation encompasses six mobilities, which include kick-off and closure meetings, with each attended by three participants from partner organizations. Additionally, Learning, Teaching, and Training (LTT) activities will enhance teacher capabilities, with each partner institution sending four teachers to these sessions.

Moreover, two LTT mobilities will cater to students, with each partner institution sending two staff members and five students, except for the Italian partner institution.

Sustainability and Beyond

The heart of this project lies in the sustainability of the Mobile Application. It will be available in all program countries' languages, free for download, and compatible with both IOS and Android platforms. This ensures that the project's impact will extend far beyond its initial implementation.

While the Mobile Application primarily focuses on identifying and supporting students with Mathematics Learning Difficulties in secondary education, it also serves as a valuable resource for individuals of all ages aspiring to enhance their mathematical skills.

In a world grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mobile Application project stands as a beacon of hope and progress. It seeks to bridge the educational gap, empower learners, and provide opportunities for personal growth in the realm of mathematics. With innovation,

dedication, and the contribution of Aristotelio Secondary School, this project strives to create a brighter future where mathematics education is accessible to all, regardless of age or ability. Together, we embark on a journey of mathematical empowerment, transforming lives one equation at a time.