Proposals
Below are some proposals for talks from the past (and current). By clicking on the ID number, more details are shown. By default, these are sorted chronologically (recent first) and by then by last name. The data can be sorted by alternate means by using the links at the top right, each allowing ascending or descending orders.
Displaying 441-460 of 471 results.
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ID:
322
Year: 2012
Name: Neil Martinsen-Burrell
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): teaching introductory statistics
Title of Talk: Teaching Introductory Statistics: An Impostor's Perspective
Abstract: I am not a statistician, but I do play one at my institution. This talk will reflect on an applied mathematician's experience teaching many, many sections of introductory statistics over the past six years. I will discuss challenges that a mathematician may face when teaching statistics, lessons I have learned, and helpful (and unhelpful) resources.
Year: 2012
Name: Neil Martinsen-Burrell
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): teaching introductory statistics
Title of Talk: Teaching Introductory Statistics: An Impostor's Perspective
Abstract: I am not a statistician, but I do play one at my institution. This talk will reflect on an applied mathematician's experience teaching many, many sections of introductory statistics over the past six years. I will discuss challenges that a mathematician may face when teaching statistics, lessons I have learned, and helpful (and unhelpful) resources.
ID:
326
Year: 2012
Name: Brian Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Recreational Mathematics
Title of Talk: The Uniqueness of Rock-Paper-Scissors-Lizard-Spock
Abstract: I shall demonstrate that Rock-Paper-Scissors-Lizard-Spock is the unique five move fair game up to isomorphism, and that there are is not a unique seven move fair game.
Year: 2012
Name: Brian Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Recreational Mathematics
Title of Talk: The Uniqueness of Rock-Paper-Scissors-Lizard-Spock
Abstract: I shall demonstrate that Rock-Paper-Scissors-Lizard-Spock is the unique five move fair game up to isomorphism, and that there are is not a unique seven move fair game.
ID:
330
Year: 2012
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Analysis, Teaching tips and tricks
Title of Talk: Real Analysis - IBL Style
Abstract: One year ago, I went to a workshop on Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) and was inspired to teach my Advanced Calculus course this way in Winter 2012. I will never go back to my old style again. This may be the closest my students ever get to mathematical research as undergraduates. In this talk I will briefly describe how an IBL classroom works and, more importantly, give links to resources to help you help your students with this method of deep learning.
Year: 2012
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Analysis, Teaching tips and tricks
Title of Talk: Real Analysis - IBL Style
Abstract: One year ago, I went to a workshop on Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) and was inspired to teach my Advanced Calculus course this way in Winter 2012. I will never go back to my old style again. This may be the closest my students ever get to mathematical research as undergraduates. In this talk I will briefly describe how an IBL classroom works and, more importantly, give links to resources to help you help your students with this method of deep learning.
ID:
351
Year: 2012
Name: Joseph Moen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Mathematical Immunology
Title of Talk: Development of Molecular Profiles to Predict Treatment Outcomes in Lymphoma Patients
Abstract: Lymphoma, a cancer which affects the immune system, is the fifth most common cancer in North America. Rituximab-based chemotherapy (R-CHOP) has become the standard recommended cancer-management course for this disease. Using previously collected data from a 2008 study conducted by Lenz G. Wright and publicly available from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, we used statistical methods to identify genetic characteristics associated with survival in R-CHOP treated patients. Univariate screening reduced the 54,000 recorded genes per patient into a manageable group which displayed strong possible correlation with overall survival. The resulting gene collection was partitioned into clusters of related genes and then scored using principal components. Then, a multivariate Cox-Regression model of these principal components was developed to best predict survival in Lymphoma patients. The resulting model can be used to help identify genetic characteristics of patients who are less likely to respond to current therapy and are potential targets for new drug development.
Year: 2012
Name: Joseph Moen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Mathematical Immunology
Title of Talk: Development of Molecular Profiles to Predict Treatment Outcomes in Lymphoma Patients
Abstract: Lymphoma, a cancer which affects the immune system, is the fifth most common cancer in North America. Rituximab-based chemotherapy (R-CHOP) has become the standard recommended cancer-management course for this disease. Using previously collected data from a 2008 study conducted by Lenz G. Wright and publicly available from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, we used statistical methods to identify genetic characteristics associated with survival in R-CHOP treated patients. Univariate screening reduced the 54,000 recorded genes per patient into a manageable group which displayed strong possible correlation with overall survival. The resulting gene collection was partitioned into clusters of related genes and then scored using principal components. Then, a multivariate Cox-Regression model of these principal components was developed to best predict survival in Lymphoma patients. The resulting model can be used to help identify genetic characteristics of patients who are less likely to respond to current therapy and are potential targets for new drug development.
ID:
363
Year: 2013
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Geometry, Analysis, Undergraduate Research, Summer Camp
Title of Talk: Math Summer Camp for Professors
Abstract: This summer I spent three weeks at the Park City Mathematics Institute as an Undergraduate Faculty Participant. The focus was on the interaction between Geometry and Analysis, but in reality, this turned out to be General Relativity. As Undergraduate Faculty they brought us up to speed academically on this cool topic, but they also depended on us to be the glue to get the other participants communicating with each other. This talk will address how the mathematics institute works and why you should find a way to attend this fabulous experience.
Year: 2013
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Geometry, Analysis, Undergraduate Research, Summer Camp
Title of Talk: Math Summer Camp for Professors
Abstract: This summer I spent three weeks at the Park City Mathematics Institute as an Undergraduate Faculty Participant. The focus was on the interaction between Geometry and Analysis, but in reality, this turned out to be General Relativity. As Undergraduate Faculty they brought us up to speed academically on this cool topic, but they also depended on us to be the glue to get the other participants communicating with each other. This talk will address how the mathematics institute works and why you should find a way to attend this fabulous experience.
ID:
113
Year: 2005
Name: Brian Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: A Project Based Finite Math Course
Abstract: In order to breathe new life into a course populated by unenthusiastic non-majors, I have introduced a series of projects which both challenges students and answers the age-old question "When am I ever going to use this stuff?". Successes and failures will both be featured.
Year: 2005
Name: Brian Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: A Project Based Finite Math Course
Abstract: In order to breathe new life into a course populated by unenthusiastic non-majors, I have introduced a series of projects which both challenges students and answers the age-old question "When am I ever going to use this stuff?". Successes and failures will both be featured.
ID:
369
Year: 2013
Name: Joy Becker
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Mathematics education
Title of Talk: Student vs. Instructor Expectations: Can we bridge the gap?
Abstract: Students and instructors often come into a course with expectations that don’t necessarily agree. These different sets of expectations can impact the learning environment in a negative way for students, as well as instructors. One way to bridge the gap between these multiple sets of expectations is to openly communicate with students about the variety of expectations, including giving students opportunities to voice their own expectations. Narrowing the gap between student and instructor expectations can lead to increased student engagement and a more positive learning environment.
Year: 2013
Name: Joy Becker
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Mathematics education
Title of Talk: Student vs. Instructor Expectations: Can we bridge the gap?
Abstract: Students and instructors often come into a course with expectations that don’t necessarily agree. These different sets of expectations can impact the learning environment in a negative way for students, as well as instructors. One way to bridge the gap between these multiple sets of expectations is to openly communicate with students about the variety of expectations, including giving students opportunities to voice their own expectations. Narrowing the gap between student and instructor expectations can lead to increased student engagement and a more positive learning environment.
ID:
115
Year: 2005
Name: Mahmoud Almanassra
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: On the Negative Mass Assigned By the Univariate Zao-Tsiatis and Wang Estimators
Abstract: The Zhao-Tsiatis estimator, for the restricted quality adjusted lifetime (RQAL), is not a monotonic estimator and hence it is not a proper survival function. The Wang estimator, which is a modified version of the ZT-estimator, is also not a monotonic estimator. Both the ZT-estimator and the W-estimator are consistent and reasonably efficient estimators. The simple weighted estimator is monotonic and consistent, but it is less efficient than the other two estimators mentioned above. I will identify the jump points of the simple weighted estimator, the ZT-estimator and the W-estimator. I will also identify which of these points are assigned a negative mass by the estimator. Moreover, I will propose two new consistent estimators for the survival functions of the RQAL.
Year: 2005
Name: Mahmoud Almanassra
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: On the Negative Mass Assigned By the Univariate Zao-Tsiatis and Wang Estimators
Abstract: The Zhao-Tsiatis estimator, for the restricted quality adjusted lifetime (RQAL), is not a monotonic estimator and hence it is not a proper survival function. The Wang estimator, which is a modified version of the ZT-estimator, is also not a monotonic estimator. Both the ZT-estimator and the W-estimator are consistent and reasonably efficient estimators. The simple weighted estimator is monotonic and consistent, but it is less efficient than the other two estimators mentioned above. I will identify the jump points of the simple weighted estimator, the ZT-estimator and the W-estimator. I will also identify which of these points are assigned a negative mass by the estimator. Moreover, I will propose two new consistent estimators for the survival functions of the RQAL.
ID:
375
Year: 2013
Name: Wartburg Students
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Survivor X
Abstract: Based on CBS’s widely-seen show Survivor, the math capstone class project Survivor X will incorporate mini math challenges in search of a final victor. Participants will be split into teams competing together for immunity. Eventually the teams will be merged and the game will turn to an individual competition. But watch out for those voted out, they will decide who is to be given the title of sole mathematical survivor.
Year: 2013
Name: Wartburg Students
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Survivor X
Abstract: Based on CBS’s widely-seen show Survivor, the math capstone class project Survivor X will incorporate mini math challenges in search of a final victor. Participants will be split into teams competing together for immunity. Eventually the teams will be merged and the game will turn to an individual competition. But watch out for those voted out, they will decide who is to be given the title of sole mathematical survivor.
ID:
135
Year: 2005
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Non-Major Mathematics Courses
Title of Talk: Mathematics and Civic Engagement
Abstract: Science Education for New Civic Engagements and Responsibilities (SENCER) is a comprehensive national dissemination project funded by the National Science Foundation. This presentation will be an introduction to SENCER followed by some discussion issues specific to mathematics. The goal of SENCER is to engage student interest in the sciences and mathematics by supporting the development of undergraduate courses and academic programs that teach
Year: 2005
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Non-Major Mathematics Courses
Title of Talk: Mathematics and Civic Engagement
Abstract: Science Education for New Civic Engagements and Responsibilities (SENCER) is a comprehensive national dissemination project funded by the National Science Foundation. This presentation will be an introduction to SENCER followed by some discussion issues specific to mathematics. The goal of SENCER is to engage student interest in the sciences and mathematics by supporting the development of undergraduate courses and academic programs that teach
ID:
138
Year: 2005
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Encouraging Undergraduate Mathematics Majors
Abstract: This year we have three opportunities for our undergraduate majors, but they are on three consecutive weekends in April. Almost all departments have some sort of math club, but we don
Year: 2005
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Encouraging Undergraduate Mathematics Majors
Abstract: This year we have three opportunities for our undergraduate majors, but they are on three consecutive weekends in April. Almost all departments have some sort of math club, but we don
ID:
166
Year: 2006
Name: Brian Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Recreational Mathematics / Group Theory
Title of Talk: Subgroups of the Rubik's Group
Abstract: The set of possible arrangements of the Rubik's Cube forms a group with 4*10^19 elements. We will locate some well known groups which occur as subgroups of the Rubik's group and begin to understand the source of some of the complexities in understanding the Rubik's group.
Year: 2006
Name: Brian Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Recreational Mathematics / Group Theory
Title of Talk: Subgroups of the Rubik's Group
Abstract: The set of possible arrangements of the Rubik's Cube forms a group with 4*10^19 elements. We will locate some well known groups which occur as subgroups of the Rubik's group and begin to understand the source of some of the complexities in understanding the Rubik's group.
ID:
172
Year: 2006
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Linear Algebra, Voting Theory
Title of Talk: Decomposing Voters
Abstract: Recent developments in the mathematics of Social Choice by Don Saari, among others, have added an element of geometry and linear algebra to a field that has been dominated by combinatorics. This talk will introduce the linear algebra behind a three-candidate election, including how symmetries underlie traditional voting paradoxes.
Year: 2006
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Linear Algebra, Voting Theory
Title of Talk: Decomposing Voters
Abstract: Recent developments in the mathematics of Social Choice by Don Saari, among others, have added an element of geometry and linear algebra to a field that has been dominated by combinatorics. This talk will introduce the linear algebra behind a three-candidate election, including how symmetries underlie traditional voting paradoxes.
ID:
429
Year: 2015
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Analysis
Title of Talk: How to I keep track of classroom behavior in my IBL Classroom
Abstract: I have been teaching IBL in my upper level classes for several years now, but have struggled with keeping track of participation during class. I want to give my students credit for quality questions and answers, but sometimes (often) things go so fast, or I am so involved with the argumentation, that I can't write things down quickly. Each class starts with the best of intentions, but . . . Today I am going to talk about one nearly fool-proof method that I have discovered that works for me, along with some other ideas that I haven't course-tested, but have strong potential.
Year: 2015
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Analysis
Title of Talk: How to I keep track of classroom behavior in my IBL Classroom
Abstract: I have been teaching IBL in my upper level classes for several years now, but have struggled with keeping track of participation during class. I want to give my students credit for quality questions and answers, but sometimes (often) things go so fast, or I am so involved with the argumentation, that I can't write things down quickly. Each class starts with the best of intentions, but . . . Today I am going to talk about one nearly fool-proof method that I have discovered that works for me, along with some other ideas that I haven't course-tested, but have strong potential.
ID:
442
Year: 2016
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Calculus, Teaching, Modeling, Technology
Title of Talk: Modeling Calculus - A Pump, not a Filter
Abstract: For the past eight years, Wartburg College has been teaching calculus through modeling as a first-term mathematics course. By using numerical approximation software, we are able to remove the handicap of inadequate confidence with algebraic techniques and help students develop a deep and intuitive understanding of calculus. Now that mathematical modeling is included in the Common Core, we are able to help students make even more connections. In this talk, I will be discussing how we set up our curriculum, how we have included IBL, what our success rate is, why we think this is the best program in the world, and finally, the book. Handouts with more information will be available and questions will be answered.
Year: 2016
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Calculus, Teaching, Modeling, Technology
Title of Talk: Modeling Calculus - A Pump, not a Filter
Abstract: For the past eight years, Wartburg College has been teaching calculus through modeling as a first-term mathematics course. By using numerical approximation software, we are able to remove the handicap of inadequate confidence with algebraic techniques and help students develop a deep and intuitive understanding of calculus. Now that mathematical modeling is included in the Common Core, we are able to help students make even more connections. In this talk, I will be discussing how we set up our curriculum, how we have included IBL, what our success rate is, why we think this is the best program in the world, and finally, the book. Handouts with more information will be available and questions will be answered.
ID:
188
Year: 2007
Name: Neil Martinsen-Burrell
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): applied math, dynamical systems
Title of Talk: Assimilating Drifter Trajectories using Gradient Descent
Abstract: In geophysics, we frequently try to couple dynamical models of physical systems such as the atmosphere or ocean with direct observations of those systems. In the atmosphere, with fixed observing stations, there are advanced techniques for Numerical Weather Prediction. In the ocean, observations are often made by objects that drift with the flow. This presents difficulties for conventional data assimilation methods. I will discuss one possible way to assimilate drifter trajectories into a very simple dynamical model.
Year: 2007
Name: Neil Martinsen-Burrell
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): applied math, dynamical systems
Title of Talk: Assimilating Drifter Trajectories using Gradient Descent
Abstract: In geophysics, we frequently try to couple dynamical models of physical systems such as the atmosphere or ocean with direct observations of those systems. In the atmosphere, with fixed observing stations, there are advanced techniques for Numerical Weather Prediction. In the ocean, observations are often made by objects that drift with the flow. This presents difficulties for conventional data assimilation methods. I will discuss one possible way to assimilate drifter trajectories into a very simple dynamical model.
ID:
195
Year: 2007
Name: Tim Schwickerath
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Historical Roots of Math and Physics in Germany
Abstract: In May 2006, a class of thirteen students and Dr. Brian Birgen from Wartburg College toured Germany and examined math and physics from a historical perspective. The class toured various musuems and universities all around Germany. The class also explored the German culture through home stays and other experiences. Two students from the class will share and discuss highlights of their experiences.
Year: 2007
Name: Tim Schwickerath
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Historical Roots of Math and Physics in Germany
Abstract: In May 2006, a class of thirteen students and Dr. Brian Birgen from Wartburg College toured Germany and examined math and physics from a historical perspective. The class toured various musuems and universities all around Germany. The class also explored the German culture through home stays and other experiences. Two students from the class will share and discuss highlights of their experiences.
ID:
451
Year: 2016
Name: Samuel Van Fleet
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Linear Algebra, Wavelets
Title of Talk: In-Place Computation of the Discrete Haar Wavelet Transformation.
Abstract: This method uses Huffman coding assisted by a wavelet filter to compress image files to a smaller size. The background math is linear algebra and there is some computer programming involved. JPEG uses a form of this math with their image files as well as the FBI for images of their fingerprints.
Year: 2016
Name: Samuel Van Fleet
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Linear Algebra, Wavelets
Title of Talk: In-Place Computation of the Discrete Haar Wavelet Transformation.
Abstract: This method uses Huffman coding assisted by a wavelet filter to compress image files to a smaller size. The background math is linear algebra and there is some computer programming involved. JPEG uses a form of this math with their image files as well as the FBI for images of their fingerprints.
ID:
196
Year: 2007
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Undergraduate Mathematics Teaching
Title of Talk: Why Do Students Have Textbooks?
Abstract: Textbooks should be readable and students should read them! In fact, students should be expected to read the textbook before they come to class!! Reading questions test student
Year: 2007
Name: Mariah Birgen
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s): Undergraduate Mathematics Teaching
Title of Talk: Why Do Students Have Textbooks?
Abstract: Textbooks should be readable and students should read them! In fact, students should be expected to read the textbook before they come to class!! Reading questions test student
ID:
197
Year: 2007
Name: Tim Schwickerath
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Historical Roots of Math and Physics in Germany
Abstract: In May 2006, a class of thirteen students and Dr. Brian Birgen from Wartburg College toured Germany and examined math and physics from a historical perspective. The class toured various musuems and universities all around Germany. The class also explored the German culture through home stays and other experiences. Two students from the class will share highlights of their experiences.
Year: 2007
Name: Tim Schwickerath
Institution: Wartburg College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Historical Roots of Math and Physics in Germany
Abstract: In May 2006, a class of thirteen students and Dr. Brian Birgen from Wartburg College toured Germany and examined math and physics from a historical perspective. The class toured various musuems and universities all around Germany. The class also explored the German culture through home stays and other experiences. Two students from the class will share highlights of their experiences.