Why is mathematics education failing some of the world’s most talented children? (Nature)
TL;DR: A recent study highlights how children in India, especially those from lower-income families, demonstrate remarkable mental arithmetic skills while working in markets but perform poorly on formal written tests. This suggests that current maths education needs to evolve, focusing on reasoning and practical application rather than just rote methods and answers. While innovative approaches are necessary to teach mathematical reasoning alongside mental arithmetic, challenges include a shortage of trained teachers and assessment systems that prioritize method over understanding. Improving teaching methods and addressing these gaps could help talented children reach their full potential, possibly contributing to future education and research.