By: Michelle Cooper, President of the Institute for Higher Education Policy
When we were little kids, knowing our numbers was a big deal. And as a result, when we mastered certain numeric sequences there would be moments of pride. Remember how big of a deal it was to learn 1 through 10, then 20, 25, 50, 100, and so on!
The importance of numbers sticks with us well past those early years. In fact, as we grow older, we learn how not knowing or understanding our numbers can cause problems. For example, not understanding how to convert hourly wages to salary could easily cause one to be shortchanged financially. Or not knowing your key health care numbers – blood pressure, temperature, weight – deprive you and your doctor of critical information needed to manage your health and your risks.
