The Project

Yes we can ... calculate! – Mathematics for people with Down Syndrome

Under the motto 'lifelong learning' for the European citizen, Austria has initiated a project with five partner countries, that aims to develop the mathematical skills of persons with Down Syndrome.

For decades, international literature has taken the position that persons with Down Syndrome will forever be mathematically illiterate. Our innovative mathematics project is supported by EU funds provided through the Grundtvig Programme 'lifelong learning', and one of its major goals is to abolish such prejudices and misconceptions.

With Austria as leader of the project, she and her partner countries Germany, Rumania, The Czech Republic, Italy and Denmark will work to develop an effective didactical concept that – based on neuro-pedagogical principles – will enable people with Down Syndrome to master simple arithmetical calculations. Specific stimulation of both brain hemispheres – through the utilization of both hands – will facilitate the acquisition of mathematical skills and promote their ideal storage in long-term memory.

This innovative method, based on the simple notion of employing our ten fingers, has the unique advantage that our 'calculating tools' will always be immediately at hand. Ultimately, throughout Europe, more than 600 persons with Down Syndrome should be able to learn to manage money and to read a clock as the first steps towards developing self-reliance and independence.

The two-year EU-project "Yes we can!" will profile the person with Down Syndrome, highlighting his needs and potential for development. For entirely too long, persons with this individuating chromosome structure have been underestimated and, as a result, improperly challenged. Thanks to the Grundtvig Programme, they will be provided the opportunity for mathematical training by means of a math toolbox suitable for workshops, a DVD and a handbook.