Corvallis, OR
A Conference on Math Education and Research
Math for all has the purpose of fostering inclusivity in mathematics by holding talks and discussions in both research and education. This conference will be targeted to undergraduate and graduate students, post-docs, and faculty members from institutions across Oregon and provide a friendly, open environment to learn and discuss mathematics.
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
registration here
(register by January 28 for presenting;
register by February 10 for guaranteed lunch)
SCHEDULE
(all times are in Pacific Standard Time)
8:30 - 9:00 registration and coffee
9:00 - 9:15 welcoming remarks
9:15 - 9:50 guided discussion I
9:50 - 10:00 break
10:00 -11:00 plenary: Vrushali Bokil (in-person)
11:00 - 11:10 break
11:10 - 11:40 short talks I
11:40 - 12:00 break
12:00 - 1:00 plenary lunch: Ali Arab (virtual)
1:00 - 1:15 break
1:15 - 2:15 short talks II
2:15 - 2:30 break
2:30 - 3:15 guided discussion II
3:30 - 4:30 plenary: David Fifty (in-person)
ABSTRACTS
VRUSHALI BOKIL: 'Simulating Electromagnetic Waves'
Maxwell's equations are a set of four vector partial differential equations that govern the evolution of electromagnetic waves. Standing on the shoulders of giants, James Clerk Maxwell's genius in uniting the phenomenon of electricity and magnetism opened up new realms of possibilities, leading from four mathematical equations to devices, gadgets, communication systems, biomedical solutions, among others. In this talk, I will describe my journey from graduate school to full professor of mathematics, in which I grappled with the question of simulating electromagnetic phenomenon by devising computational models or numerical methods for Maxwell's equations. Along the way, I met many diverse mentors, collaborators and people with interesting ideas that fueled my research and that of my students.
ALI ARAB: 'Data and Data Science for All: Striving for Human Rights, Equity and Justice'
In the era of digital transformation, all aspects of our lives are impacted by data and what we infer from them. Critically, the transformative role of data and analytics has enabled us to consider deeper analytical approaches to study complex social phenomena. This is especially important for studying systems at the intersection of multiple disciplines such as social, environmental, and heath issues. In this talk, I will highlight examples from past and ongoing research projects on applying mathematical, statistical, and computational tools to better understand, and raise awareness on, environmental, health, and social justice issues with the ultimate goal of making an impact on policy and achieving social change. In particular, I will discuss the added-value of organic data in this process including data generated through social media as well as citizen science projects.
DAVID FIFTY: 'Open Gates, or Tear them Down? How Should We Work for Equity in Math Education?'
To many, mathematics represents a gatekeeping discipline that affects students’ educational mobility and hinders the realization of career aspirations. This is especially true for students of non-traditional and underrepresented backgrounds in which the mathematics education system was not designed to support. Responding to this issue requires a balance of supporting students to succeed in an unjust system while also trying to change that system to support all students. In this talk, I’ll share my story about how I came to focus on supporting equity in introductory undergraduate mathematics courses. I will also describe some of the projects and programs that I have worked on that balance opening gates and tearing them down.
GUIDED DISCUSSION:
INTERPLAY AMONG SOCIETY AND MATH
Led by Axel Saenz Rodriguez and Leah Sturman
Work to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in mathematics is gaining focus in the US. As a result, institutions of higher ed now require diversity statements as part of the job application process. The requirement of diversity statements in hiring practices raises questions such as: how can we measure a person’s impact in this sphere? What constitutes “good” DEI work? Is a good diversity statement indicative of a good mathematician? Through activity and discussion, this session will offer participants the opportunity to practice having mindful conversations about DEI topics and to discuss how mathematics and society impact each other.
ORGANIZERS
Dr. Michael Gilliam
Leah Sturman
Adaline De Chenne
QUESTIONS: Please contact us by email!