MAA Panels, Posters, Workshops, and Other Sessions
Refocusing Your Career: Making Time and Space, organized by Brian P. Katz, Augustana College, and Rachelle Bouchat, Indiana University of Pennsylvania; Wednesday, 8:00–9:20 am. The ongoing work of an educator, scholar, colleague, leader, and advisor can and does fill all of the time we, as mathematicians, have to give. And yet, many of us have projects we are passionate about that we struggle to fit into this time, including issues of social justice, community outreach, exploration of novel areas of mathematics, and incorporation of students into our research. Some are struggling to make time rather than to make more time, while others are struggling to define the work of a mathematician so that it includes their passion projects. Panelists will discuss their varied experiences pursuing these kinds of projects and share advice that can help others navigate this career passage. There will be time for questions and discussion about applying these ideas to our own careers. This panel is sponsored by the MAA Project NExT Pine’09 cohort. Many members of this cohort are moving into phases of their careers in which both time pressures and self-determination have grown, making this issue particularly salient. While the needs of this group generated this panel, we intend the discussion to be accessible and useful for all conference attendees. Panelists are: Colin Adams, Williams College; Gizem Karaali, Pomona College; Katherine Socha, Park School of Baltimore; Michael Starbird, University of Texas at Austin; Laura Taalman, James Madison University; and Diana White, University of Colorado Denver. This panel is sponsored by MAA Project NExT.
NSF Funding Opportunities for the Learning and Teaching of the Mathematical Sciences, organizers and panelists are Ron Buckmire, John Haddock, Teri Jo Murphy, Sandra Richardson, and Lee Zia, Division of Undergraduate Education, NSF; Karen King, Division of Research on Learning, NSF; Tasha Inniss, Division of Human Resource Development, NSF; Tara Smith, Division of Graduate Education, NSF and Jennifer Slimowitz Pearl, Division of Mathematical Sciences, NSF. A number of NSF divisions offer a variety of grant programs that support innovations in learning and teaching in the mathematical sciences. These programs will be discussed along with examples of successful projects in two sessions. Anticipated budget highlights and other new initiatives for the next fiscal year, as appropriate, will also be presented. These programs will be discussed in two sessions.
Part I: Undergraduate/Graduate Education, Department of Mathematics Infrastructure, and Human Resource Development (DUE/DGE/DMS/HRD)Wednesday, 8:00–9:15 am, and
Part II: The K–16 Continuum: Learning Science & Research and Pre- and In-Service Teachers (DUE/DRL) Wednesday, 9:30–10:30 am.
What Belongs in a Twenty-First Century Geometry Course?, organized by Stephen Kennedy, MAA Press; Wednesday, 9:35–10:55 am. The members of the panel are all well-known authors of successful textbooks for the college geometry course. Panelists will attempt to address all the relevant questions a faculty member teaching that course might face. What is the proper role of axiomatics? What topics are absolutely essential to include? What is important for future high-school teachers in your class to master? How does the Common Core affect the answer to that question? At what level should technology be used and what are some good options? Particular attention will be paid to the recommendations contained in the most recent MAA CUPM Guide. Panelists are: Matthew Harvey, University of Virginia College at Wise; Tom Sibley, St. John's University; and Gerard Venema, Calvin College.
What Every Student Should Know about the JMM, organized by Violeta Vasilevska, Utah Valley University; Wednesday, 2:15–3:35 pm. Navigating a large conference can be overwhelming, even for those who have previously attended such an event. Panelists Joyati Debnath, Winona State University; Michael Dorff, Brigham Young University; and Matt DeLong, Taylor University, will provide guidance for students attending the Joint Mathematics Meetings, including answers to some common questions: How do I get the most out of the program? What sessions are especially for students? What other events should I be on the lookout for? Will I understand any of the invited addresses or should I not bother attending them? If I am presenting a poster, where do I go to set it up? How can I get some cool, free math stuff? Students and their faculty mentors are encouraged to attend. Panelists are: Joyati Debnath, Winona State University; Michael Dorff, Brigham Young University; and Matt DeLong, Taylor University. This panel is sponsored by the MAA Committee for Undergraduate Student Activities and Chapters (CUSAC).
Preparing for the Data Deluge: Mathematics Programs and the Future of Undergraduate Statistics Education, organized by Sue Schou, Idaho State University; Stacey Hancock, Montana State University; and Patti Frazer Lock, St. Lawrence University; Wednesday, 2:15– 3:35 pm. The McKinsey report states that “by 2018, the United States alone could face a shortage of 140,000 to 190,000 people with deep analytical skills as well as 1.5 million managers and analysts with the know-how to use the analysis of big data to make effective decisions.” With terms like “Big Data” and “Analytics” being used in the media and among academics, the question arises as to how to best prepare undergraduates for careers in statistics. Employers value statistics skills and the demand is high, perhaps higher than it has ever been due to the “data deluge.” In response, there is a trend in the growth of and creation of statistics undergraduate programs. Programs, especially those housed within mathematics departments, need to determine the best options to train and teach future statisticians. Our panel will host several members of the mathematics and statistics community who have created innovative curriculum and programs to meet the demand for statistics training. These panelists will share their experiences in creating programs in statistics, the advantages and disadvantages of creating separate Mathematics and Statistics majors, and how to incorporate new ASA guidelines for Statistics Programs into new or existing programs. Panelists are: Robin Lock, St. Lawrence University; Roger Hoerl, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and K. Scott Alberts, Truman State University. This panel is sponsored by the SIGMAA on Statistics Education.
Professional Development at the Section Level: Section NExT, Opportunities for Graduate Students, & More, organized by Julie Barnes, Western Carolina University; Benjamin V. C. Collins, University of Wisconsin-Platteville; Jessica Deshler, West Virginia University; Eric Eager, University of Wisconsin La Crosse; and David Torain, Hampton University; Wednesday, 3:50–5:10 pm. MAA sections can provide a great set of faculty-development resources for individuals throughout the entire spectrum of the mathematical community. For example, yearly or bi-yearly section meetings are a great place for faculty to interact and learn from each other without the expense of attending national meetings. Section NExT retreats and panels offer early-career faculty with the opportunity to be mentored, without the time and financial commitment that come with national MAA Project NExT. However, that isn’t the only thing that sections can do to provide professional development opportunities. In this panel, mathematicians from three different sections will share ideas from their Section NExT programs; an additional panelist will discuss professional development being offered for graduate students in one section. We will include time at the end not only for questions, but also for people to share ideas about any form of professional development available in their sections. Panelists are: Brian Birgen, Wartburg College; Eric Eager, University of Wisconsin La Crosse; Jon Ernstberger, LaGrange College; and Sarah Frick, Furman University. This panel is sponsored by the MAA Committee on Professional Development; MAA Committee on Sections; MAA Committee on Early Career Mathematicians; and MAA Project NExT.
Research Support Networks, organized by Louis Deaett, Quinnipiac University; Wednesday, 3:50– 5:10 pm. Faculty in the early and middle part of their careers may find it challenging to maintain an active program of scholarship that extends beyond their thesis work. A support network of fellow mathematicians with similar expectations of scholarship and background in a common area of mathematics can be vital to success. Diverse programs exist offering faculty opportunities to foster such research support networks. Panelists representing three such programs will share features that make each program unique, while panelists who have participated in one or more of these programs will speak to the benefits of their experiences. Panelists are: Margaret Cozzens, Rutgers University; Ulrica Wilson, Morehouse College/ICERM; Joyati Debnath, Winona State University; and T. Christine Stevens, American Mathematical Society. This panel is sponsored by the MAA Committee on Professional Development.
Bylaws for a New Century: Q&A Forum on Proposed Changes in MAA Governance, Thursday, 8:00 – 8:50 am. Come hear about and ask questions about the revised MAA bylaws which will be voted on at the Saturday MAA Business Meeting. Moderators for this forum are Jim Daniel, MAA Treasurer, and Matt Boelkins, MAA First Vice President.
Pushing for Change: the MAA and Advocacy, organized by Karen Saxe, Macalester College, and David Manderscheid, Ohio State University; Thursday, 9:00–10:20 am. This panel will update the community on the policy and advocacy activities of the Mathematical Association of America. After a broad overview of the history of policy and advocacy work of the MAA, we will discuss more recent work of the MAA Science Policy Committee, and future directions for this committee, the MAA, and indeed all professional associations moving forward working with both federal and state governments. Panelists for this session are: Daniel Goroff, Alfred P. Sloan Foundation; David Manderscheid, Ohio State University; and Michael Pearson, MAA.
MAA Session for Chairs: Data, Information, Knowledge using Annual Survey of Math Science & CBMS Survey, organized by Catherine M. Murphy, Purdue University Calumet, and Daniel Maki, Indiana University; Thurs- day, 9:00–10:35 am. This will be an interactive session for Chairs to learn how the AMS-ASA-MAA-SIAM Annual Survey of the Mathematical Sciences (ASMS) and the Conference Board of the Mathematical Sciences (CBMS) Survey are conducted and how to effectively use these and other surveys to address issues such as course enrollments, teaching loads, trends in hiring faculty, patterns in compensation, and diversity in the work force and student population. Participants will have the opportunity to work in groups and consult with presenters on questions of their own choosing or from a suggested list. Having a notebook computer with browser and spreadsheet application would be most useful during the consulting process. Panelists are: Thomas Barr, American Mathematical Society, and Ellen Kirkman, Wake Forest University. This panel is sponsored by the AMS-ASA-MAA-SIAM Joint Data Committee.
Mathematical Outreach Programs, organized by Elizabeth Yanik, Emporia State University; Thursday, 10:00 am –12:00 noon. This poster session is designed to highlight special programs which have been developed to encourage students to maintain an interest in and commitment to succeeding in mathematics. These programs might include such activities as after school clubs, weekend activities, one day conferences, mentoring opportunities, summer camps, etc. This poster session encompasses a wide variety of outreach efforts for a variety of age groups. For example, programs might be designed to reach out to underrepresented groups. The projects supported by MAA Tensor and Summa grants will find this an ideal venue in which to share the progress of their funded projects. Another possible type of outreach might involve mathematical enrichment programs. For example, recipients of Dolciani Mathematics Enrichment Grants might wish to highlight their programs. Other examples might include innovative programs to motivate undergraduates to study mathematics. We encourage everyone involved with offering mathematical outreach activities to consider submitting an abstract to the session organizer, Elizabeth Yanik, eyanik@emporia.edu.
Models for Mathematicians Working with K–12 Mathematics Teachers, organized by Ben Ford, Sonoma State University, and Debbie Gochenaur, Shippensburg University; Thursday, 10:35–11:55 am. In addition to work preparing teachers before they enter the classroom, many mathematical science departments are integral to professional development efforts for practicing teachers in their regions. Panelists will discuss successful models in which they participate, including statewide networks, masters programs for in-service teachers, math teacher circles, and national programs. Panelists are: James A. M. Epperson, The University of Texas at Arlington; Davida Fischman, California State University, San Bernardino; and Robert M. Klein, Ohio University. This panel is sponsored by the MAA Committee on the Mathematical Education of Teachers (COMET).
MAA-AMS Joint Panel Session on Design (or improve) Preparation of Your Graduate Students to Teach: Using MAA’s CoMInDS Resource Suite, organized by Jessica Deshler, West Virginia University; Thursday, 10:35– 11:55 am. CoMInDS is a MAA project, funded by the NSF, to support teaching-related professional development (PD) for beginning college mathematics instructors (CMIs), e.g., graduate student teaching assistants. CoMInDS aims to provide resources and support networks for those: (1) who deliver the PD in their departments (2) who create PD materials for CMIs and (3) who conduct research on CMI PD. One component of the project is an online collection of instructional materials and research-related resources for use in CMI PD. In this session, we will illustrate how to use the resource suite to design PD programs for CMIs. We will provide an overview of the contents of the suite and then we will illustrate how to identify specific resources. In particular, we will provide a guided tour of how items from the resources suite can be used to create a pre-semester orientation session for new CMIs. We will also illustrate how to locate and use research-based resources from the suite, such as research articles, to use as readings and research reports that can be used to support the need for such programs. At the close of the session we will present opportunities for participants to get involved in the project and to contribute their own materials to the resources suite.
This panel is being organized and offered in conjunction with a complementary AMS Special session on Saturday morning and afternoon, Teaching Assistant Development Programs: Why and How? (see AMS Special Sessions).
Panelists are Jack Bookman, Duke University; Natasha Speer, University of Maine; Jessica Deshler, West Virginia University; and Sarah Schott, Duke University. This panel is sponsored by the MAA Committee on Professional Development and AMS-MAA Joint Committee on TAs and Part-Time Instructors.
Perspectives on Inquiry Based Learning: Novice, Experienced, and Master, organized by Theron J. Hitchman, University of Northern Iowa; Judith Covington, Louisiana State University Shreveport; Angie Hodge, University of Nebraska Omaha; Brian Katz, Augustana College; Alison Marr, Southwestern University; and Victor Piercey, Ferris State University; Thursday, 1:00 – 2:20 pm. Panelists will share their experiences in getting started with Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) and perspectives on maintaining these techniques over time. They will share a quick thought on the opportunities and challenges of IBL courses, but a large fraction of the time will be reserved for a questions from the audience. Our panelists include someone new to IBL teaching, someone with enough experience to feel comfortable designing a new course, and an acknowledged master teacher who has mentored others in IBL teaching. Panelists are Carol Schumacher, Kenyon College; Theron Hitchman, University of Northern Iowa; and Susan Crook, Loras College. This panel is sponsored by IBL SIGMAA.
Women and Scholarly Publishing, organized by Semra Kilic-Bahi, Colby-Sawyer College; Kim Roth, Juniata College; and Jenna Carpenter, Campbell University; Friday, 1:00–2:20 pm. Data on the publications emphasize the gender gap among the authorship of published scholarly work. A further analysis of the data reveals that the number of submissions by women to professional journals is considerably less than men’s. There is a wide array of publishing venues and format to present scholarly work to diverse audiences. Panelists will share tips on how to integrate writing to our busy schedules, how to best frame articles for a variety of journals, and how to become successful authors. The exploration of possible reasons on the gender discrepancy in scholarly publishing will be an important theme of the panel. Panelists are Jackie Jensen-Vallin, Lamar University; Susan Colley, Oberlin College; Gizem Karaali, Pomona College; Marjorie Senechal, Smith College; Cathy Kessel, Illustrative Mathematics; and Dorothy Wallace, Dartmouth College. This panel is sponsored by the MAA Committee on Participation of Women and the Joint Committee on Women.
Projects Supported by the NSF Division of Undergraduate Education, organized by Jon Scott, Montgomery College; Thursday, 2:00–4:00 pm. This session will feature principal investigators (PIs) presenting progress and outcomes from various NSF funded projects in the Division of Undergraduate Education. The poster session format will permit ample opportunity for attendees to engage in small group discussions with the PIs and to network with each other. Information about presenters and their projects will appear in the program.
MAA Panel on the Dolciani Award: Mathematicians in K–16 Education, organized by David Stone, Georgia Southern University; Will Abram, Hillsdale College; Judith Grabiner, Pitzer College; Bill Hawkins, University of the District of Columbia; Betty Mayfield, Hood College; Susan Wildstrom, Walt Whitman HS, Bethesda MD; and Glenn Stevens, Boston University; Thursday, 2:35–3:55 pm. The MAA Mary P. Dolciani Award, funded by the Dolciani Halloran Foundation, recognizes a pure or applied mathematician who is making a distinguished contribution to the mathematical education of K–16 students in the United States or Canada. Although it is new and relatively unknown, it is one of the MAA’s major awards. Its recipients form an impressive list of mathematicians who are widely recognized as having contributed to mathematics education:
- 2015 Sybilla Beckmann, University of Georgia
- 2014 Alan Schoenfeld, University of California at Berkeley
- 2013 Hyman Bass, University of Michigan
- 2012 William G. McCallum, University of Arizona
The panel will feature recipients of the award and other mathematicians who have been involved in mathematics education. The panelists will address why they believe it is important that research mathematicians become involved in K–16 mathematics education, can provide examples of positive engagement and provide a road map for others who wish to follow their lead. They will highlight the key issues, the roadblocks and rewards in such endeavors. In an address at a previous JMM, Hy Bass said “There are three issues in which every mathematician should be engaged: research, applications and education.” This session is an opportunity to hear from mathematicians who have been leaders in all of these arenas. The panel will conclude with an interactive Q&A session. Panelists are: Hyman Bass, University of Michigan; Sybilla Beckman, University of Georgia; and Bill McCallum, University of Arizona.
MAA-AMS-SIAM Panel on Multiple Paths to Mathematics Careers in Business, Industry and Government(BIG), organized by Rachel Levy, Harvey Mudd College; Allen Butler, Daniel H Wagner Associates; and Douglas Mupasiri, University of Northern Iowa Thursday, 2:35–3:55 pm. Career opportunities in Business, Industry and Government (BIG) are growing as tenure track academic job opportunities are shrinking. Yet many Mathematics PhD programs do not include preparation for BIG career options as part of the standard curriculum. At this panel you will have the opportunity to hear about multiple career paths to BIG. Panelists will share (a) what they wish they had known and done as graduate students/postdocs and (b) what you can do at your career stage if you are interested in making connections with business, industry or government. Panelists are Carla Cotwright-Williams, U.S. Social Security Administration; Frank Cullen, Emeritus Principal with Blackstone & Cullen, Inc.; Mary Morley, State of New Jersey; Dan Sanders, Columbia University; and Prasad Tetali, Georgia Tech. Sponsors for this panel are AMS, BIG SIGMAA, MAA, and SIAM.
Poetry + Math, organized by Gizem Karaali, Pomona College; Lawrence M. Lesser, University of Texas at El Paso; and Douglas Norton, Villanova University; Thursday, 5:30–7:00 pm. In the last few years, JMM attendees have enjoyed eclectic poetry readings. This year’s poetry reading continues the tradition. All who are interested in mathematical poetry and/or mathematical art are invited. Come to share your poetry or simply enjoy the evening's offerings! Though we do not discourage last-minute decisions to participate, we invite and encourage poets to submit poetry (no more than three poems, no longer than five minutes) and a bio in advance—and, as a result, be listed on our printed program. Inquiries and submissions (by December 1, 2016) may be made to Gizem Karaali (gizem.karaali@pomona.edu) Sponsors for this event are the Journal of Humanistic Mathematics and SIGMAA ARTS.
AMS-MAA Special Film Presentation and Panel: The Man Who Knew Infinity, presented by the US National Committee for Mathematics, Thursday, 7:00- 9:30 pm. The film, The Man Who Knew Infinity (2015), recounts the modest upbringing and pioneering academic career of the Indian mathematician, Srinivasa Ramanujan (Dev Patel), and his friendship with his mentor, Professor G.H. Hardy (Jeremy Irons) at Cambridge University. Produced in part by Ken Ono, Emory University, and Manjul Bhargava, Princeton University, the screening is hosted by The US National Committee for Mathematics to promote US involvement in the IMU's programs that are located in developing countries.
The screening at 7:30 pm, will be preceded at 7:00 pm by a panel entitled, International Mathematics Efforts and the IMU, moderated by Eric M. Friedlander, University of Southern California. This panel discussion will mention some of the international activities in mathematics undertaken by U.S.-based mathematicians and, in particular, the efforts of the International Mathematics Union. The discussion will provide guidance for mathematicians interested in contributing to mathematics education and research outside of the U.S. Panelists will be Ingrid Daubeschies, Duke University; Wilfrid Gangbo, University of California Los Angeles; and Ken Ono, Emory University. Sponsored by the U.S. National Committee for Mathematics
Developing the MAA Instructional Practices Guide, organized by Martha Abell, Georgia Southern University, and Linda Braddy, Tarrant County Community College; Friday, 8:00 am–9:20 am. In the process of revising the Curriculum Guide, the MAA Committee on the Undergraduate Program in Mathematics (CUPM) encountered questions related to “how we teach” as well as “what we teach.” As a result, the MAA Committee on the Teaching of Undergraduate Mathematics (CTUM) was charged with developing an Instructional Practices (IP) Guide to help faculty become more aware of research-based pedagogical approaches, course design, and assessment of student learning. Panelists are lead writers or project PIs who will discuss various aspects of the Guide, including structure, content, and review process. This panel discussion provides an opportunity for members of the mathematics community to learn more about the Guide and to provide feedback as it is being developed. Panelists are: Ben Braun, University of Kentucky; Julie Phelps, Valencia College; Lew Ludwig, Denison University; and Hortensia Soto, University of Northern Colorado. Sponsored by the MAA Committee on the Teaching of Undergraduate Mathematics (CTUM).
Insights from MAA studies of College Algebra, Precalculus, and Calculus, organized by David Bressoud, Macalester College, and Marilyn Carlson, Arizona State University; Friday, 9:35–10:55 am. The MAA has been running two large NSF-sponsored studies of introductory undergraduate mathematics: Using Research to Shape Instruction and Placement in Algebra and Precalculus (URSIP) and Progress through Calculus (PtC). The latter builds on the findings of Characteristics of Successful Programs in College Calculus to provide tools for departments to improve the precalculus through calculus sequence. It also is studying the obstacles and affordances to the implementation of beneficial changes. This panel will consist of researchers from these two projects summarizing their most significant findings and seeking feedback from the audience for future directions. Panelists are: Jess Ellis, Colorado State University; Bernie Madison, University of Arkansas; Chris Rasmussen, San Diego State University; and Michael Tallman, Oklahoma State University.
Presentations by MAA Teaching Award Recipients, organized by Barbara Faires, Westminster College, and Francis Su, Harvey Mudd College.; Friday, 2:30–3:50 pm. Winners of the Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Awards for Distinguished College or University Teaching will give presentations on the secrets of their success.
MAA Committee on the Mathematical Education of Teachers (COMET) and the AWM Committee on Education Panel Discussion: Highlighting Contributions to Mathematics Education from Members of Departments of Mathematical Sciences, organized by Beth Burroughs, Montana State University; Jacqueline Dewar, Loyola Marymount; and Pao-sheng Hsu; 2:35–3:55 pm. There are a variety of ways in which members of departments of mathematical sciences contribute to work in mathematics education. This panel is designed to illustrate the breadth and range of these activities and to provide a forum for discussion of particular issues that might arise from such work. It will highlight examples and include the perspectives of mathematicians and mathematics education researchers who contribute in areas such as: teacher education (pre- and in-service); instructional materials development in K–16 mathematics; equity issues in mathematics; and mathematics education research. Panelists will discuss their work in mathematics education and may reflect on how their work is received in their departments. Panelists will update the community on the project. The moderator for this panel is Robert Klein, Ohio University. Panelists are: Viveka Borum, Spelman College; LouAnn Lovin, James Madison University; Megan Wawro, Virginia Polytechnic and State University; and Nina White, University of Michigan. This panel is co-sponsored by the MAA Committee on the Mathematical Education of Teachers (COMET) and AWM Committee on Education.
MAA Student Poster Session, organized by Chasen Smith, Georgia Southern University, and Eric Ruggieri, College of the Holy Cross; Friday, 4:30– 6:00 pm. This session features research done by undergraduate students. First-year graduate students are eligible to present if their research was completed while they were still undergraduates. Research by high school students can be accepted if the research was conducted under the supervision of a faculty member at a post-secondary institution.
Appropriate content for a poster includes, but is not limited to, a new result, a new proof of a known result, a new mathematical model, an innovative solution to a Putnam problem, or a method of solution to an applied problem. Purely expository material is not appropriate for this session.
Participants should submit an abstract describing their research in 250 words or less by midnight, October 7, 2016. Notification of acceptance or rejection will be sent by November 1, 2016. See www.maa.org/programs/students/undergraduate-research/jmm-student-poster-session for further information on what should be included in the abstract and a link to the abstract submission form.
Posters will be judged during the session and award certificates will be mailed to presenters with the highest scores. Trifold, self-standing 48" by 36" tabletop poster boards will be provided. Additional materials and equipment are the responsibility of the presenters. Participants must set up posters between 2:30 and 3:30 pm and must be available at their posters from 3:30 to 6:00 pm. Judging will begin at 3:30 pm, and general viewing will begin at 4:30 pm. Judges results will be available at the MAA Pavilion in the Exhibit Hall the following day until the exhibits close.
Questions regarding this session should be directed to Chasen Smith csmith@georgiasouthern.edu and Eric Ruggieri eruggier@holycross.edu. This session is sponsored by the MAA Committee on Undergraduate Student Activities and Chapters.
Actuarial Science at the JMM: 25 Years and Counting, organized by Patrick Brewer, Lebanon Valley College; Robert Buck, Slippery Rock University; Bettye Case, Florida State University; Kevin Charlwood, Washburn University; Michelle Guan, Indiana University Northwest; Steve Paris, Florida State University; and Sue Staples, Texas Christian University; Friday, 5:00– 7:00 pm. In 1992, James Daniel, University of Texas, began organizing actuarial science sessions to keep faculty members informed of ever-evolving actuarial curriculum changes and career information. Commemorating the 25th anniversary celebration of that first session, Jim will be the opening speaker. He will offer some historical perspective of the past 25 years and a view of the future challenges and rewards for actuarial science faculty. Dwayne Husbands and Jonathan Applewhite, representing the International Association of Black Actuaries will discuss a new initiative involving a pilot program at Florida State University. The next panel section, “From the Field,” will feature working actuaries from the Atlanta area; this popular tradition of the sessions generates lively questions from the audience. Because exam content and credentialing requirements change much faster than the usual academic pace, annual updates from the major credentialing organizations are essential: Rick Gorvett represents the Casualty Actuarial Society and Stuart Klugman represents the Society of Actuaries—there are big changes in the exams structure and content which are anticipated very soon. Panelists are: James Daniel, University of Texas; Stuart Klugman, Society of Actuaries; Rick Gorvett, Casualty Actuarial Society; Dwayne Husbands and Jonathan Applewhite, Ernst and Young, representing the International Association of Black Actuaries; two Atlanta area practicing actuaries.
Mathematically Bent Theater, featuring Colin Adams and the Mobiusbandaid Players; Friday, 6:00– 7:00 pm. Which Greek letter has more cachet, epsilon, delta or sigma? How many mathematicians does it take to change a light bulb? Who walked off with my copy of “Green's Kernels and Meso-Scale Approximations in Perforated Domains” at the Project NExT Reception at the Seattle Joint Meetings? These are just a few of the questions we will not answer in this theatrical presentation of several short mathematically inclined humorous pieces.
Relatively Prime - Live Podcast; Friday, 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. So, why math? It is a question we all hear, sometimes way too often, and one for which we all have different answers. At this live recording of the award-winning mathematics podcast "Relatively Prime". Samuel Hansen, ACMEScience, will explore some of those answers, starting with the story of why he decided to go into mathematics. There will also be interviews with mathematicians about their mathematical origin stories and a live performance by musician and mathematician Robert Schneider, Emory University. Plus, Samuel promises there is going to be a secret audience participation element you won't want to miss.
Backgammon! organized by Arthur Benjamin, Harvey Mudd College; Friday, 8:00–10:00 pm. Learn to play backgammon from expert players. It’s a fun and exciting game where players with a good mathematics background have a decisive advantage. Boards and free lessons will be provided by members of the US Backgammon Federation. Stop by anytime!
Roadblocks for Implementing Active Learning Strategies in Calculus Courses, organized by Debbie Gochenaur, Shippensburg University, and Larissa Schroeder, University of Hartford; Saturday, 9:00–10:20 am. Faculty members who would like to begin implementing active learning strategies in their Calculus course(s) may become overwhelmed by apparent roadblocks, often quitting before getting very far. Panelists will discuss roadblocks they have encountered through their own journey towards integrating active learning in calculus courses, as well as successful models for implementation. Ample time will be given for questions from the audience. Panelists are: Angie Hodge, University of Nebraska Omaha; Matthew Boelkins, Grand Valley State University; and Darryl Yong, Harvey Mudd College.
Outside the Equation - Exploring Alternative Forms of Mathematical Communication, organized by Samuel Hansen, ACMEScience; Saturday, 9:00–10:20 am. Talks, classes, articles, and books. We all know the basics about how mathematics is typically communicated, but there is no reason to limit ourselves to such a narrow set of communication tools. The more ways mathematics is communicated the more people will develop a meaningful connection to mathematics and the more people with a deep connection to our beloved subject the more positive the public perception of mathematics, which is something we can all would be a boon. There are many cases of different types of mathematical communication in the world from videos to art to audio shows to live performances to music. This panel will feature talks from the people on the front lines of this work discussing how they transform mathematics from the classroom and the page into something engaging and new to be enjoyed by many types of different audiences. The panel is made up of people who communicate mathematics through music, mime, art, and podcasts. Panelists are: Anna Haensch, Dusquense Univeristy; Robert Schneider, Emory University; Edmund Harriss, University of Arkansas; and Tim Chartier, Davidson College.
Weird Ways to Multiply (and Isn’t the Spelling of “Weird” Weird?), organized by Deanna Haunsperger, Carleton College; Saturday,10:00–10:50 am. Presenter, James Tanton, MAA, will share a whole slew of strange and wild techniques for performing multiplication. Will you be able to figure out why these crazy techniques work? This interactive lecture welcomes students of all ages, and teachers, parents, mathematicians, and math enthusiasts of all ages. Sponsored by the MAA Council on Outreach.
Me and My Gadgets—Teaching with Technology, organized by Karl R. B. Schmitt, Valparaiso University; John Travis, Mississippi College; Thomas Hagedorn, The College of New Jersey; and Michael Scott, California State University at Monterey Bay; Saturday, 10:00– 11:55 am. Constantly changing technology presents an exciting and shifting opportunity to engage students and improve learning. This electronic poster session will consist of live, interactive demonstrations of applets, widgets or other technology for teaching mathematics. Rather than preparing a traditional printed poster, presenters will showcase how students engage mathematics through their application using some electronic device such as a tablet, smartphone, or laptop. Preference will be given to presenters demonstrating their own or new applications or to novel approaches in using existing ones.
In addition to the active displays, all participants will give a 3–5 minute “Lightning Talk” to demonstrate their application, highlighting where it fits into a mathematics curriculum. These will be scheduled in the middle of the session, and included in the program.
Abstracts should include a short description of the application/software (or a web-link to it) and explain the pedagogical use of the application.
Sponsored by the MAA Committee for Technology in Mathematics Education (CTiME) and Web SIGMAA.
The Impact of High School Calculus on the Transition to College Mathematics, organized by David Bressoud, Macalester College, and Brendan Murphy, John Bapst High School; Saturday, 10:35–11:55 am. Three-quarters of the students who begin calculus each year do so in high school. Roughly half of all students who matriculate as full-time undergraduates in a four-year program have completed a calculus course before leaving high school. The MAA, NCTM, and College Board are all concerned about differences between students who have and those who have not had access to calculus in high school, particularly the effects on both students’ interest in taking and the success experienced in college mathematics courses. This panel will report on what we know about the effects of this “rush to calculus” and discuss what we might need to know and how such information can be gathered. Panelists are: Vilma Mesa, University of Michigan; Dixie Ross, Pflugerville High School; Philip Sadler, Harvard University; and Bill Trapp, The College Board. This panel is sponsored by the College Board/MAA Joint Committee on Mutual Concerns.
What We Talk About When We Talk About Mathematics, organized by Samuel Hansen, ACMEScience; Saturday, 10:35–11:55 am. Mathematics is not always the easiest thing to talk or write about, especially when the audience is not other mathematicians. This panel of journalists, authors, and online mathematical communicators will discuss how they take high level mathematics and present them to a general audience in such a way that the audience can not only understand but enjoy the mathematics. The panel will be moderated by Samuel Hansen, the host of the mathematics podcast Relatively Prime. Panelists are: Beth Malmskog, Villanova University; and Colin Adams, Williams College and Author.
Math Circle Demonstration, organized by Gabriella Pinter, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee; Tatiana Shubin, San Jose State University; and Bob Klein, Ohio University; Saturday, 11:00–11:55 am. A math circle is an enrichment experience that brings mathematics professionals in direct contact with pre-college students and/or their teachers. Circles foster passion and excitement for deep mathematics. This demonstration session offers the opportunity for conference attendees to observe and then discuss a math circle experience designed for local students. While students are engaged in a mathematical investigation, mathematicians will have a discussion focused on appreciating and better understanding the organic and creative process of learning that circles offer, and on the logistics and dynamics of running an effective circle. The sponsor for this demonstration is SIGMAA MCST.
Introductory Statistics: Where Are We and Where Do We Need to Go?, organized by Gail Burrill, Michigan State University; Saturday, 2:35– 3:35 pm. The content and focus of current introductory statistics courses vary considerably across institutions. In this session, the panelists will discuss the changing audience for the course, new approaches to structuring a course to meet the needs of more students, the changing landscape for the role of statistics and how it is taught, the overarching concepts that should be part of any course, and what the statistics education community should be doing to prepare teachers at all levels for these changes. Questions for the audience will include what they see as barriers to rethinking current courses, what might be done to overcome these barriers, and suggestions for other concerns and considerations in promoting better student learning. Panelists are Roxy Peck, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo; Uri Triesman, University of Texas at Austin; Rob Gould, University of California Los Angeles; and Nathan Tintle, Dordt College. This panel is sponsored by MAA/College Board Mutual Concerns Committee.
SAT Test Development Committee Reflections, organized by Bill Trapp, College Board; Saturday, 1:00– 2:20 pm. The College Board administered a fully redesigned SAT in March 2016. Some of the changes to the SAT included a narrower content focus, separate calculator portion and no-calculator portion, and no penalty for guessing. Subject matter experts in mathematics began reviewing new questions in 2013 and continue to review hundreds of new questions yearly. This panel will share their experiences and their impressions which have been gathered during their participation as SAT question reviewers for the College Board. Panelists are: Rinav Mehta, Central Piedmont Community College; Gloria Barrett, North Carolina School of Mathematics and Science; Luke Wilcox, East Kentwood High School; and Katrina Piatek-Jimenez, Central Michigan University. This panel is sponsored by the College Board/MAA Committee on Mutual Concerns.
Math Wrangle, organized by Ed Keppelmann, University of Nevada Reno and Paul Zeitz, University of San Francisco; Saturday, 1:00–2:30 pm. Math Wrangle will pit teams of students against each other, the clock, and a slate of great math problems. The format of a Math Wrangle is designed to engage students in mathematical problem solving, promote effective teamwork, provide a venue for oral presentations, and develop critical listening skills. A Math Wrangle incorporates elements of team sports and debate, with a dose of strategy tossed in for good measure. The intention of the Math Wrangle demonstration at the Joint Math Meetings is to show how teachers, schools, circles, and clubs can get students started in this exciting combination of mathematical problem solving with careful argumentation via public speaking, strategy and rebuttal. Sponsors for this event is SIGMAA-MCST.