233 pages
250 x 168mm
ISBN-10: 1 85856 015 2
ISBN-13: 978 1 85856 015 1

Mathematics is still the quintessential male subject; throughout the world it is women who underachieve in it. And needlework still defines femininity; it is mostly women who do needlework of all kinds. Yet it is often a highly mathematical activity - activity which goes uncredited because it is done by women.

Common Threads traces how, when national education systems were initially set up, school mathematics and needlework came to mark systematic differences between boys' and girls' education, and reveals the lasting influence in differentiated expectations for boys and girls all over the world. The book explores the mathematical content of a variety of textile activities worldwide and shows how these can be used in the teaching of mathematics where expectations are low or where curricula are gendered or culturally irrelevant. It suggests how women could gain greater economic independence if the mathematics skills they acquire while learning textile crafts were formally accredited.

This book has implications for needleworkers and for all involved in mathematics education, the education of girls and women, ethno-mathematics and development education. Its content impacts upon research and education policy and on adult education worldwide.

Mary Harris developed the exhibition Common Threads at the Institute of Education, University of London and it toured schools in England for two years. The British Council took it over and presented it in 23 countries during 1991-1994 until it wore out. The book contains illustrations of some of the exhibits.