What is the difference between numeracy and mathematics, and why is numeracy a necessary skill for the 21st century?

Numeracy is a vital skill for any individual and their goal to become a successful person in the 21^st century and in life (Priest, 2013, p. 3). However, what differentiates numeracy and mathematics from one another? In the past, numeracy and mathematics were once thought to be the same, however, they aren’t. Although similar in a sense, both definitions can be differentiated (Priest, 2013, p. 4).

Some countries classify numeracy as a synonym for mathematical literacy. This includes certain areas of the mathematics curricula that go beyond numbers, for instance; algebra, geometrical properties and logical reasoning (Baker et al., 2008, p. 9). Numeracy is the ability to understand mathematical ideas, applying the knowledge obtained into daily life, within homes, employment and society (Baker et al., 2008, p. 9; State of New South Wales, Department of Education, n.d.).

Fig 2. Mathematics v Numeracy (source: Priest, 2013, p. 7).

As displayed (Fig. 2), mathematics is a formal area of teaching that operates with numbers and measurements that are used beyond the realm of numeracy (Difference Between, 2012; Moursund, n.d.; Priest, 2013, p. 4). Further elaborated by Priest (2013), this may involve; calculus, quadratic equations, statistical analysis, etc. (p. 7).

How can we observe the difference from one from another? For example, when trying to identify the budget for a holiday trip, both mathematics and numeracy will be involved. Math’s can be observed through the; calculation of numbers and using formulas to identify the estimated cost of the trip (Priest, 2013, p. 8). Whilst numeracy is identifiable by; having the ability to comprehend the overall budget for the trip and apply mathematical knowledge into real-life situations, such as find out what the estimated remaining balance will be at a certain point in time (Priest, 2013, p. 8).

There is a belief in the school's that many children dislike the idea of learning mathematics, and that they perceive the skills it has to offer largely useless (Kukaswadia, 2013). Under the knowledge that the world is now transitioning into a heavy knowledge-based society, the ever-increasing lack of numerical knowledge is a great concern for our future advancements (Kukaswadia, 2013).

Goos (2012) mentions that numeracy within the 21^st century needs to adhere to the rapidly evolving nature of knowledge, technology, and work (p. 4). Despite the undeniable fact that a numerate person requires mathematical knowledge, they must also have positive dispositions, which include; willingness and confidence in engagement with tasks, correlate well with others, ability to work independently, and utilise their mathematical knowledge and skills adaptively and flexibly within society (Goos , 2012, p. 5).

21st-century skill is a concept used to encompass a broad set of charter traits, knowledge, skills and work habits. These critical set of learning skills are believed to be required for an individual to effectively participate in today’s modern society and achieve success in life (Glossary of Education Reform, 2016). Saving a solid understanding of numeracy, a 21st-century skill, will prove to be a fundamental asset used in every aspect of our daily social life, education pathway and career prospects (Kangan Institute, n.d.; National Numeracy, n.d.).

Reference

Baker, D., Street, B., & Tomlin, A. (2008). Navigating Numeracies. Retrieved from https://link-springer-com.dbgw.lis.curtin.edu.au/content/pdf/10.1007%2F1-4020-3677-9.pdf

Difference Between. (2012, September 13). Difference Between Numeracy and Mathematics. Retrieved from http://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-numeracy-and-vs-mathematics/

Glossary of Education Reform. (2016, August 25). 21ST CENTURY SKILLS. Retrieved from http://edglossary.org/21st-century-skills/

Goos, M., Dole, S., & Geiger, V. (2012). Numeracy across the curriculum. (p. 3-7). Retrieved from https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ974975.pdf

Kangan Institute. (n.d.). The Importance of Literacy and Numeracy Skills. Retrieved from https://www.kangan.edu.au/students/blog/importance-literacy-and-numeracy-skills

Kukaswadia, A. (2013, February 11). Mathematical Literacy: A necessary skill for the 21st century. Retrieved from http://blogs.plos.org/scied/2013/02/11/mathematical-literacy-a-necessary-skill-for-the-21st-century/

Moursund, D. (n.d.). What is Mathematics? Retrieved from http://pages.uoregon.edu/moursund/Math/mathematics.htm

National Numeracy. (n.d.). Why is numeracy important? Retrieved from https://www.nationalnumeracy.org.uk/why-numeracy-important

Priest, T. (2013, November 30). Maths v Numeracy. Retrieved from https://prezi.com/eq3vcugoln64/maths-v-numeracy/

State of New South Wales, Department of Education. (n.d.). What is Numeracy? Retrieved from https://numeracyskills.com.au/what-is-numeracy