Investigating Compulsion for Mathematics Study to 18
In comparison to other jurisdictions, England is viewed as having a mathematics ‘problem’ at all age groups, but specifically for those aged 16–18 years.The government has shown its support for increasing participation in mathematics, stating that it hopes to have ‘the vast majority of 16- to 18-year-old learners studying some form of mathematics within the next decade’. The research contained herein sought to investigate the evidence behind the calls for compulsion.
Would a further two years of mathematics within the current English qualifications system really bring about dramatic improvements for individuals and the economy as suggested? Furthermore, we investigated the implications of such a move for learners and staff in further education (FE) colleges. Could compulsion be introduced within the current infrastructure, or would we need significant changes to enable full participation? In particular, would there be any negative unintended consequences and, if so, what could be done to guard against them? Finally, we considered ways that the government might think about measuring mathematics participation post-16, with a view that a broad approach must be taken
