Chapter 1: Understanding Our Place in the World

To create a better environment, we must acknowledge that we are part of a society, an economy, and a planet that needs our care. Our understanding of the world is still limited, and it is crucial that we adapt our lives to the unpredictable nature of our planet—whether it's rising sea levels, severe weather, earthquakes, or wildfires. These challenges stem from the poor design of our cities and communities. My latest series of articles for Age of Awareness will explore how math and language can help us rethink these designs.

The reality is that we live in a VUCA world—characterized by Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. To navigate this, we must develop resilience and flexibility. We were born to lead adventurous lives filled with experiences. However, acquiring knowledge and utilizing innovative frameworks like biomimicry can significantly aid us in adapting our urban spaces and lifestyles to be more in harmony with the planet.

Happy & Healthy People on a Healthy Planet

It is essential to recognize our interconnectedness. The Global Goals we aim to achieve by 2030 are interrelated and nested within one another.

Chapter 2: The Intersection of Math and Language

Mathematics is the language of nature, essential for advancing material sciences. Imagine roads that purify water, buildings that improve air quality, and communities thriving on healthy food and clean water. We need to rethink land use and agricultural practices to ensure sustainability. My work encompasses math, chemistry, biology, and the development of resilient economies.

As an educator and a lifelong learner, I invite diverse voices—especially women and People of Color—to join this field. Your experiences with complexity can bring fresh perspectives. Synthesizing information and seeking solutions to systemic issues is vital in today's world.

Education often emphasizes specialization, which can limit our thinking. We must broaden our understanding. Math is integral to language and processes. It underpins technology, enhances energy efficiency, and even shapes our ecological understanding.

Mathematics and Language

William Thurston once noted that our comprehension of mathematics evolves over time, highlighting the importance of cultural and linguistic context in understanding mathematical principles.

The first video titled "How I Would Teach Languages in a Classroom" discusses innovative teaching strategies that integrate language learning with diverse subjects.

Complexity and Simplicity

To simplify math, we can think of it as a "Superformula"—a reflection of nature’s processes. Embracing the idea that perfection is an illusion can free us to explore the present moment fully.

The ancient Greeks understood this concept well, evident in their use of the aorist tense, which focuses on actions without specifying duration or completion.

The Importance of Understanding Cultural Context

Delving into ancient Indo-European languages reveals their connection to mathematical concepts. The shared ideas between ancient cultures around geometry and religion suggest a common heritage that influences modern mathematics.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of these concepts, consider reading a children’s math book on the Superformula, which explores how math applies to various fields like technology, chemistry, and architecture.

Making Math Practical

Dynamic mathematics emphasizes completing one phase before transitioning to the next—much like how life unfolds in milestones. Celebrating these milestones fosters resilience and growth.

Success in life requires acknowledging that each step builds on previous experiences. Writers create a portfolio by building upon their past articles, while teachers provide students with actionable knowledge to encourage exploration and experimentation.

An Inclusive Call to Action

We must foster an environment of abundance for all, encouraging women and people of color to excel in fields such as math, science, and technology. Your intelligence and perspectives are crucial in addressing the challenges we face on this diverse planet.

Let’s celebrate our uniqueness while recognizing our shared humanity. Together, we can cultivate healthier lives for future generations.

The second video titled "How I Teach Languages I Can't Actually Speak (27 & counting!)" shares insights into teaching languages effectively, even without fluency.