The Childhood Mathematics Experiences of Mothers and the Current State of Early Mathematics Education in Korea

This study examined the early childhood mathematics education in Korea. Especially, this study was conducted on the childhood mathematics experiences of mothers with young children, the mothers’ perceptions of early childhood mathematics education, and the current state of early mathematics education. According to this study, most mothers had a negative attitude towards mathematics education during their childhood. Most of the respondents stated that during their elementary mathematics classes, a teacher-directed and one-sided lecture method was used, accompanied by repetitive mechanical practice. In terms of how the mothers feel about early childhood mathematics education, there were discrepancies between their beliefs and practices. The study suggests that parents agree they should possess a positive attitude towards mathematics and learn how to provide mathematics education through everyday situations. The study also suggests that parents must become critical education consumers and develop a good evaluative eye for choosing appropriate mathematics teaching media.