Math circle

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Inspired by the Eastern European problem-discussion approach to math education, math circles have become something of a phenomenon for top math students around the United States. In particular, the Bay Area, known for producing a large number of qualifiers for the United States of America Mathematical Olympiad, is home to several math circles.

Some, but not all math circles concentrate on math competition problems, or mathematical problem solving. Many are focused on teaching students to find and write rigorous solutions (mathematical proofs) to standard and nonstandard math problems. Some also focus on mathematical research skills.

Two acclaimed opinion leaders in mathematics education, Bob & Ellen Kaplan, have written a book published by Oxford entitled Out of the Labyrinth: Setting Mathematics Free, about the non-profit Cambridge/Boston Math Circle they founded in 1994 in the Harvard University environs. It presents a convincing argument for incorporating the art of guided explorations and self-discovery into math curricula. Along the way, they also describe the classroom, organizational and practical issues they faced in founding their Math Circle.

Mathematics is our lost native language, state the authors. Math talent is a myth, but the drudgery of most early math education fails to instill the confidence and sense of play which invites further exploration. The subtle Art of teaching is woven throughout the book as the lifelong teachers lend examples for creating an intimate model for guiding young students in their own discovery of complex math. Their approach consists of posing foundational questions to group of students -- Are there numbers between numbers? What is Area? -- then guiding a discussion down many paths "propelled by the fun of the chase."

In early 2007, the Kaplans lectured to teachers and educators at conferences by the American Mathematical Society and Mathematical Association of America.