Research using Aborigines makes maths breakthrough

Previously it was thought that human’s mathematic ability was due to the ability of language. A joint study between University College London and Melbourne University found that mathematical ability appears to be innate, or hard-wired into the human brain (Trouson, A 2009 ). It estimated from 4.3 to 10 percent of people have dyscalculia, a disability effecting ones mathematic ability. This disability is similar to dyslexia (Trouson, A 2009 ). The results published in the Washington journal “Proceeding of the National Academy of Science” and were based from 3 groups of aboriginal children. Two were non English speaking and the third was a group an English speaking from Melbourne. The non English speaking groups only had around four generic words for counting. It was found that both groups could do comparable maths.
The findings show that the treatment for dyscalculia may be misguided (Trouson, A 2009 ). The treated relies on language building and memory building. The findings show that it is a genetic or neurological disorder. In the report it shows that early detection maybe possible and that the teaching language for those who suffer should be used to reinforce basic mathematical principles. The findings are not a cure for the disability but can provide a new direction in which suffers can be treated
Trouson, A 2009 Research using Aborigines makes maths breakthrough, The Australian http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,24205070-12332,00.html
Written by Dominic Carroll, 42064084