"Radical Equations- Math Literacy and Civil Rights" by Robert Moses-Important Connections

The book "Radical Equations-Math Literacy and Civil Rights" by Robert Moses and Charles E. Cobb, Jr. has three themes as noted by Jodi Wilgoren of The New York Times, "equality, empowerment, and citizenship." The book describes how the authors believe that "math literacy for children is the key next step in the ongoing fight for citizenship."

Mr. Moses' creation of the Algebra Project and the description of the pedagogy used are important. Experiential Learning is the heart of the project. The basic format is that first, students have an experience, then they think about the experience, next the students are engaged in conceptual work around the reflections, and finally applying the concept based on the conceptual work. Another key point is that "Experiences must be meaningful in terms of the daily life and culture of the students."

As indicated in much of the youth development literature, the students are engaged in helping create part of the content, also "social construction", which is having the students work together so that they also depend on each other. They learn "ownership" and the personal responsibility required for the successful function of the learning group.

Basically, the book includes many of the themes I have been researching and also creates a bridge between the importance of involving youth in the process and the effects on their development not only as people, but as citizens of this country. "If kid's can find their voice, the door to change begins to open much wider" (p. 130)