Viral Video of Children Using Abacus and Finger-Calculation Technique Sparks Online Concern
Viral Video of Children Using Abacus and Finger-Calculation Technique Sparks Online Concern
A viral video of children solving mental math problems with abacuses and a high-speed finger-calculation technique has sparked concern across the internet. The video, shared by X user Azhar Jafri, has amassed over 1.4 million views since its posting on July 25.
In the 16-second clip, children dressed in blue uniforms are seen using abacuses while rapidly moving their fingers to solve math questions during a competition. The participants were tasked with completing the mental math section of their question paper within an eight-minute timeframe. The video also shows a wide shot of numerous students in a hall engaged in the same activity.
“There were a lot of suggestions to put my kids in these mental maths/Abacus classes. But I chose not to send them. Something doesn’t feel right about it,” Jafri wrote in the caption of his post.
There were a lot of suggestions to put my kids in these mental maths/abacus classes. But I chose not to send them 🥲
— Azhar Jafri (@zhr_jafri) July 25, 2024
Something doesn't feel right about it 😐 pic.twitter.com/dTLFcGkKL4
Jafri’s apprehension struck a chord with many viewers, who shared similar concerns and opinions. Some users expressed unease about the technique, suggesting alternative activities for brain development such as playing chess or learning new languages. One user shared: “One of my close family members, who was one of the top ten world mathematicians at a time, told me this mental circus maths is pointless.”
Another user commented, “I would be worried if my child starts doing this. Looks scary for some reason.” Echoing these sentiments, a different viewer said, “Good decision. Waste of time. Marginally useful in social settings. A computer is faster.”
The debate highlights the divide in opinions on traditional and modern educational techniques, with some advocating for conventional methods while others suggest exploring newer, more diversified learning activities.
