Entrance slip : September 19

#FridaysForFuture#ClimateStrike#StrikeWithUs  (copied)

The Climate change(Global warming) has always been a defining issue of our times, but its high time now as it transverses an alarming stage. Despite the fact that we all are busy in our own lives, the concern for this climate change, consideration of its impact on us and our future generations stays somewhere in our minds. Honestly, any time I read or hear anything about growing environmental issues, I feel concerned and involved, but the next moment, I begin to feel uncertain about my role or my contribution towards this global situation. With worldwide Climate Strike demanding actions and support for our future, starting Friday, September20th,I think, there could not have been a better opportunity for me to read this article "Mathematics for life: Sustainable Mathematics Education" by Moshe Renert.
   The author's approach towards sustainable education in respect to mathematics education is quite provoking. Accounting broader aspects of mathematics education in particular, the article has projected my perspectives about mathematics education beyond mathematical formulae and equations towards responsive thinking and innovative environment friendly teaching practices. Though, the article addresses transformative role of mathematics education to meet the need of ecological sustainability at every point, but the two things that surprised/ impressed me in expression are:

• Damasio's(1994) statement that emotions play a crucial role in decision making and human action, acknowledges Barrow's(1992) "the notion of counting and the notion of quantity". If we cannot relate large numbers to their larger impact, then our understanding of their correlation with any physical phenomenon is negligent.
• The metaphor of 'butterfly' is actually very capacitating. It signifies the importance of each one of our roles and social-environmental responsibilities to be aware of our actions and their consequences. It conveys the power of each water drop that contributes to the bigger ocean.

I believe, educational institutions, schools play an important role in shaping our society by laying foundations and moral values in life of young generation. It is time for us to realize the potential of our roles as educators and the impact of our words/teachings/ lessons that could motivate many, students, parents for a better framework of society. Regarding accommodation, reformation, transformation while addressing present situation of climate crisis and endangers awaiting humanity, could help in fostering a sense of care and respect among students for our environment It is our duty to orient ourselves and our teaching methodologies/practices by adopting skills to inculcate examples/models such as ones described in the text, into our teaching philosophies could initiate a change in favour of sustainable education.