31 Jul , 18:55
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Heat impacts knowledge: scientists discover how high temperatures prevent children from mastering mathematics
A large-scale study by Australian scientists from RMIT and the University of New South Wales has shown a concerning link between hot climates and children's learning abilities. Mathematics, which requires increased concentration and logical thinking, is particularly affected. The results of the scientific work are published in the respected journal PLOS Climate.
Scientists analyzed data from an impressive sample - nearly 14.5 million schoolchildren from 61 countries worldwide. It was found that children regularly exposed to high temperatures demonstrate reduced performance in tasks involving logic, abstract thinking, and concentration. Meanwhile, reading skills and performance on simpler tasks proved less sensitive to the temperature factor.
Children from low-income families were found to be at higher risk. The absence of air conditioners in schools and the inability to attend additional classes to reinforce material exacerbate the situation, leading to a more noticeable decline in cognitive abilities among these students.
Researchers warn: in the long term, this phenomenon may increase educational inequality among young people. Moreover, unfavorable learning conditions can slow down the intellectual development of entire generations and intensify social stratification.
The scientific group calls for a revision of educational policy taking climate factors into account. Among the recommended measures are improving cooling systems in educational institutions and adapting educational approaches to the realities of global warming.
