P. K. Srinivasan

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P.K. Srinivasan (November 4, 1924-June 20, 2005) served as the Curator-Director of Ramanujan Museum and Math Education Centre which he helped establish in 1993. Srinivasan was one of the founders of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of India in 1965 and he was awarded the National Science Award by government of India in 1991 for promoting the cause of mathematics education to enable children to learn mathematics with interest and enthusiasm. He was advocating the use of simple inexpensive materials improvising them to illustrate mathematical concepts whenever they are introduced and almost lead a crusade against the mere rote learning techniques and drill. He also indicated the efficacy of introducing non-routine thinking when the child can grasp, using the concepts introduced, leading to problem solving techniques and innovative strategies.

A meeting to pay homage to his memory was organised on 8th July 2005 by the AMTI in the Dakshinamoorthy auditorium, P.S.Higher secondary school, Mylapore, Chennai. Many speakers who were his associates, admirers, friends and relatives spoke of the momentum he brought to the movement of Mathematics Education in the country. It was mentioned by more than one speaker at that time that the best tribute to his memory would be for Mathematics teachers to make mathematics learning interesting for the children.