The original wording of the key competence:
‘Mathematical competence is the ability to develop and apply mathematical thinking and insight in order to solve a range of problems in everyday situations. Building on a sound mastery of numeracy, the emphasis is on process and activity, as well as knowledge. Mathematical competence involves, to different degrees, the ability and willingness to use mathematical modes of thought and presentation (formulas, models, constructs, graphs, charts.
Competence in science refers to the ability and willingness to explain the natural world by making use of the body of knowledge and methodology employed, including observation and experimentation, in order to identify questions and to draw evidence-based conclusions. Competences in technology and engineering are applications of that knowledge and methodology in response to perceived human wants or needs. Competence in science, technology and engineering involves an understanding of the changes caused by human activity and responsibility as an individual citizen.’
Suggestions for use in European youth programmes:
In international projects participants are often involved in the planning of the project, making the budget and finding financial resources. It’s about strategic thinking, analysing needs and solving problems. In some projects the relationship to this competence is very clear as the topics are of scientific nature such as climate change, social issues etc. Then data have to be examined and research and scientific findings are integrated in the project.
Questions that can help participants to reflect:
- In what way were you involved in the planning of the project? What was new for you? What did you learn?
- Do you have a good overview of the financial conditions and regulations concerning the project?
- How did you plan the project? With whom and in what way?
- Did you work with budgets, calculating and controlling money? What did you learn from that?
- Did you collect any data? How did you use them?
- Was you project in anyway related to science or technology? What did you learn from that?
- How did you solve problems in your project? How did you look for solutions? How did you implement them?
- Did you present your project to others? Did you use any models, charts, etc? Did you develop any new presentation skills? Which?
- Did you get any new scientific knowledge? Which and how?
- How did you cope with new and unexpected situations in your project?
- Does your project contribute in any sense to science development? How?
- What else would you like to learn in this field? Who can help you?