Monday, May 28, 2012

We're One Step Closer to a TV Show That Changes How We Think About Math

In 2009, I wrote about the need for an educational TV show that would change the way we think about math in America.  In short, my idea was for a show that would combine the best elements of reality shows like Mythbusters and Dirty Jobs with educational children's shows like Bill Nye and Beakman's World.  Ideally, it would be something smart, funny and engaging for kids and adults alike.

Now, the team behind the website Mathalicious have launched a Kickstarter campaign to create Math52, a series of weekly videos that would come very close to what I was talking about.  If it is successful online, I think it's reasonable to assume it could end up on TV (far more ludicrous things have been adapted from the internet into television; why not this?).

The fundraising goal is $27,000 to support the creation of the first 8 videos. As of this writing, their total stands just about $14,000 with a June 16th deadline looming.  I've pledged $50 and hope you'll consider supporting Math52 as well.  Check out the sample video below and an accompanying lesson for an idea of what they'll be doing.