A survey of mathematical knowledge and skills in high schools needed for professions in social sciences

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify the mathematics topics and skills that are important in high school mathematics curriculum for higher education in social science departments such as law, psychology and history, based on scores assigned by staff from university and industry. A survey including five-point Likert type items was used in the present study. Analyses were conducted with respect to departments and institutions. There was a convergence of the perceived importance selected mathematical knowledge and skills for preparation of social science education at university. However, 9th grade mathematics topics are enough to teach all students who prefer to study in a social science in this regard. Also there was no difference among institutions. Some suggestions about high school mathematics curriculum are made in the present study.