The approach adopted by the IMA to this first phase of the Inquiry has been to frame achievement of its objective. The starting point has been to consider the impediments and our response flags key issues, proposes guiding principles and suggests next steps.

The 2 major interdependent factors to be confronted and overcome are:

1. Limited public awareness of the pivotal role of mathematics
2. Insufficient and declining numbers engaging with mathematics

The general findings supported by member returns are:

A) We must educate for adaptability combined with a commitment to continuing education and training.

B) The definition of mathematical literacy as coined in the report Mathematical Skills in the Workplace, (a report to the Science Technology and Mathematics Council, June 2002)

The full text of the IMA response will be published in a future edition of Mathematics Today. A copy of the Executive Summary is available at IMA Executive Post 14 Maths Inquiry

Keep up to date with the Post 14 Mathematics Inquiry
http://www.mathsinquiry.org.uk/