Comparative study on adult mathematical competence in Baltic States in the context of sustainable development

Abstract

Background rationales of the study based on the need to understand and ability to use mathematics in everyday life and in the workplace has never been greater and will continue to increase. Mathematics is a discipline, which is a background for specialists who works in environmental protection, engineering, construction, business, telecommunication, textile, new energy sources, etc. Mathematical competence is one of the eight key competencies defined by EU Directives, which include the skills to apply basic mathematical principles and processes in everyday contexts at home and work, and to follow and assess chains of arguments. An individual should be able to reason mathematically, understand mathematical proof and communicate in mathematical language, and to use appropriate aids. In the framework of this study criteria justifying the role of mathematics in workplace and everyday life were developed and implemented, as well as identified the mathematics knowledge level what is needed for particular company / institution's employees as well as evaluated the employees' professional competence. In the study made the comparative analysis of the employees and employers'needs and fields of the deeper knowledge of mathematics that need for the specialists to accomplish their professional activities successfully. The study analysis also the respondents’ willingness and motivation to improve mathematics knowledge/ skills and describes how to organize continuing math education by the use of the basic math knowledge/ skills/ competence, competence field, company profile as well as gives comparative analysis of the opinions in different Baltic States.