A Recipe for Idiocracy

Published: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 12:00 pm

American Students' Math Skills Decline, Raising Concerns

A recent report from UC San Diego highlights a concerning trend: a significant decline in math proficiency among incoming college freshmen. The university, which admits a small percentage of applicants, now sees a dramatic increase in students requiring remedial math courses, with many struggling with basic concepts like fractions and algebra. This mirrors a broader national trend, with other University of California campuses and institutions like George Mason University reporting similar issues.

The decline in math skills began approximately a decade ago, accelerating during the coronavirus pandemic. National Assessment of Educational Progress data indicates that eighth-grade math skills are now a full school year behind where they were in 2013. While some argue that scores are comparable to the 1970s, the loss of decades of progress is a significant concern.

Several factors contribute to this decline. The rise of smartphones and social media may be impacting students' attention spans and engagement in math. Additionally, some believe that technology is making students complacent, leading them to rely on AI instead of developing their own problem-solving skills.

Changes in educational policies also play a role. The federal government's shift away from accountability measures, coupled with a focus on making math more engaging, may have contributed to lower standards. The pandemic further exacerbated the problem, leading to relaxed expectations and policies like "no zeros," which may have inflated grades despite a lack of mastery.

Furthermore, the UC system's decision to phase out standardized test scores in admissions, while intended to address racial divides, may have inadvertently led to the admission of less prepared students. The report suggests that standardized tests are reliable predictors of math ability.

The consequences of this decline are potentially far-reaching. Experts predict a significant economic cost due to declining quantitative skills. The reliance on AI to solve problems without a strong foundation in math is also a concern, as it could undermine critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

BNN's Perspective:

The decline in math proficiency among American students is a serious issue that demands attention. While the intentions behind some of the policy changes may have been positive, the results are concerning. A balanced approach that emphasizes both equity and academic rigor is crucial to ensure that students are adequately prepared for the challenges of the future.

Keywords: math skills, education, standardized tests, remedial math, UC San Diego, academic decline, pandemic, algebra, fractions, STEM, innumeracy, AI, educational policy, accountability, grades, admissions, quantitative literacy

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