All of us can learn to communicate in the universal language of math. A circle is always a circle, and its circumference is calculated the same way no matter where you live. So, we were not surprised when First In Math (FIM) received enthusiastic reviews from several Italian students who were recently introduced to the online program—and its game-based content—through a sponsorship by World ORT.
Università degli Studi di Milano – Bicocca, (University of Milano Bicocca) in Milan, Italy.
Founded in 1880, World ORT is one of the largest non-governmental education and training organizations in the world. This year, through a network of schools, colleges, training centers and programs in Israel, Russia, Argentina, Western Europe and many other countries worldwide, their programs will benefit over 200,000 people of diverse ages and faiths.
“First In Math and World ORT share a commitment to the concept of Educating for Life,” explains Suntex International Executive Vice President Nan Ronis. Ronis was introduced to the organization through her involvement with the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley.
Acknowledging this similarity in their values, Ronis offered to implement First In Math in ORT sponsored schools who felt they could benefit from the program. She was contacted by the Italian affiliate and First In Math is now part of a Serious Games In Education pilot project in Milan. These classrooms are also serving as a “case study” for research associated with the Universita Biocca di Milano.
The students' remarks about the program revealed a strong awareness of their learning styles and their enthusiasm for its benefits. Translated from Italian to English, here is a sample of what they had to say:
“This work is…full of interesting games that draw people in. I liked it a great deal because it combines math with entertainment…”
“Before this game, I couldn’t do mental math quickly, but now I can make calculations in much less time…”
“I hope to continue to practice on the site and become FIRST IN MATH”
“I noticed that at the beginning the puzzles seemed impossible, but gradually and to my surprise, I was able to execute them without too much difficulty.”
“I initially encountered difficulties due to my lack of mental elasticity and the speed with which I could make calculations; as…I acquired a familiarity with the subject, and by practicing, I realized that I did succeed in coming up with solutions. The mental exercise was incredibly proficient at making my mind more nimble, not only in the field of math, but in general.”
These comments mirror what we hear from students here in the United States and other countries where First In Math is popular. It is encouraging to know that the universal language of math is the foundation for an equally universal education experience.