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 61-80 of 471 results.
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ID:
338
Year: 2012
Name: Jason Grout
Institution: University of Northern Iowa
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: An Introduction to Sage
Abstract: Sage is a free, open-source mathematical software system. In this workshop we will give a short introduction to the capabilities and features of Sage and give everyone a chance to try it out.
Year: 2012
Name: Jason Grout
Institution: University of Northern Iowa
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: An Introduction to Sage
Abstract: Sage is a free, open-source mathematical software system. In this workshop we will give a short introduction to the capabilities and features of Sage and give everyone a chance to try it out.
ID:
344
Year: 2012
Name: Courtney Sherwood
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: A Model of Invertebrate Richness on Restored Prairies
Abstract: We will present a differential equations model of prairie restoration. Here, species richness is considered as an indicator of prairie restoration, with the variables for the equation being invertebrate and plant species richness and time. We will incorporate field work from a prairie in Nebraska as an example of our model. Our main goal is determining if planting fewer seeds will yield similar invertebrate richness as planting more seeds, that is, a more cost effective approach.
Year: 2012
Name: Courtney Sherwood
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: A Model of Invertebrate Richness on Restored Prairies
Abstract: We will present a differential equations model of prairie restoration. Here, species richness is considered as an indicator of prairie restoration, with the variables for the equation being invertebrate and plant species richness and time. We will incorporate field work from a prairie in Nebraska as an example of our model. Our main goal is determining if planting fewer seeds will yield similar invertebrate richness as planting more seeds, that is, a more cost effective approach.
ID:
353
Year: 2013
Name: Jennifer Quinn
Institution: Mathematical Association of America
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Fibonacci's Flower Garden
Abstract: It has often been said that the Fibonacci numbers frequently occur in art, architecture, music, magic, and nature. This interactive investigation looks for evidence of this claim in the spiral patterns of plants. Is it synchronicity or divine intervention? Fate or dumb luck? We will explore a simple model to explain the occurrences and wonder whether other number sequences are equally likely to occur. This talk is designed to be appreciated by mathematicians and nonmathematicians alike. So join us in a mathematical adventure through Fibonacci's garden.
Year: 2013
Name: Jennifer Quinn
Institution: Mathematical Association of America
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Fibonacci's Flower Garden
Abstract: It has often been said that the Fibonacci numbers frequently occur in art, architecture, music, magic, and nature. This interactive investigation looks for evidence of this claim in the spiral patterns of plants. Is it synchronicity or divine intervention? Fate or dumb luck? We will explore a simple model to explain the occurrences and wonder whether other number sequences are equally likely to occur. This talk is designed to be appreciated by mathematicians and nonmathematicians alike. So join us in a mathematical adventure through Fibonacci's garden.
ID:
354
Year: 2013
Name: Jennifer Quinn
Institution: Mathematical Association of America
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Mathematics to DIE for: The Battle Between Counting and Matching
Abstract: Positive sums count. Alternating sums match. So which is "easier" to consider mathematically? From the analysis of infinite series, we know that if a positive sum converges, then its alternating sum must also converge but the converse is not true. From linear algebra, we know that the permanent of an n x n matrix is usually hard to calculate, whereas its alternating sum, the determinant, can be computed efficiently and it has many nice theoretical properties. This talk is one part performance art and three parts combinatorics. The audience will judge a combinatorial competition between the competing techniques. Be prepared to explore a variety of positive and alternating sums involving binomial coefficients, Fibonacci numbers, and other beautiful combinatorial quantities. How are the terms in each sum concretely interpreted? What is being counted? What is being matched? Do alternating sums always give simpler results? You decide.
Year: 2013
Name: Jennifer Quinn
Institution: Mathematical Association of America
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Mathematics to DIE for: The Battle Between Counting and Matching
Abstract: Positive sums count. Alternating sums match. So which is "easier" to consider mathematically? From the analysis of infinite series, we know that if a positive sum converges, then its alternating sum must also converge but the converse is not true. From linear algebra, we know that the permanent of an n x n matrix is usually hard to calculate, whereas its alternating sum, the determinant, can be computed efficiently and it has many nice theoretical properties. This talk is one part performance art and three parts combinatorics. The audience will judge a combinatorial competition between the competing techniques. Be prepared to explore a variety of positive and alternating sums involving binomial coefficients, Fibonacci numbers, and other beautiful combinatorial quantities. How are the terms in each sum concretely interpreted? What is being counted? What is being matched? Do alternating sums always give simpler results? You decide.
ID:
356
Year: 2013
Name: Al Hibbard
Institution: Central College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: A tour of the new Iowa section web site
Abstract: I will give an overview of the content and structure of the new section web site including special emphasis on the tools portion and some of the pages related to the history of the section. I will also explain the process I took in coming to its current structure.
Year: 2013
Name: Al Hibbard
Institution: Central College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: A tour of the new Iowa section web site
Abstract: I will give an overview of the content and structure of the new section web site including special emphasis on the tools portion and some of the pages related to the history of the section. I will also explain the process I took in coming to its current structure.
ID:
360
Year: 2013
Name: Irvin R. Hentzel
Institution: Iowa State University
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Calculus Bloopers I Have Made
Abstract: There are "simplifying assumptions" used in First Year Calculus which have become so ingrained in my teaching that I never give them a second thought. I examine the following statements as they are often presented in Calculus Books and show inconsistencies which are often overlooked. (1) Work = Integral F ds (2) For a force to move an object in a certain direction, there must be a component of the force in that direction. (3) Acceleration normal to the direction of motion changes the direction, but leaves the speed unchanged. (4) The Bernoulli Principle: the greater the velocity, the lower the pressure. (5) Neglecting air resistance in earth's gravity, all things fall at the same rate. (6) The Proof of Rolle's Theorem.
Year: 2013
Name: Irvin R. Hentzel
Institution: Iowa State University
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Calculus Bloopers I Have Made
Abstract: There are "simplifying assumptions" used in First Year Calculus which have become so ingrained in my teaching that I never give them a second thought. I examine the following statements as they are often presented in Calculus Books and show inconsistencies which are often overlooked. (1) Work = Integral F ds (2) For a force to move an object in a certain direction, there must be a component of the force in that direction. (3) Acceleration normal to the direction of motion changes the direction, but leaves the speed unchanged. (4) The Bernoulli Principle: the greater the velocity, the lower the pressure. (5) Neglecting air resistance in earth's gravity, all things fall at the same rate. (6) The Proof of Rolle's Theorem.
ID:
105
Year: 2005
Name: Nancy Hagelgans
Institution: Ursinus College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Planar Linkages: Robot Arms, Carpenters' Rulers, and Other Devices
Abstract: A planar linkage is constructed in the plane from rigid links or rods that are connected with movable joints. Robot arms and carpenters' rulers are examples of planar linkages in which the links are connected to form a chain. We will examine the reachability region of robot arms, which are chains with one end fixed. Then we will go on to solve the minimal folding problem of carpenters' rulers with links of different lengths. Finally we will address some planar linkages that can be used to convert one type of motion to another type of motion.
Year: 2005
Name: Nancy Hagelgans
Institution: Ursinus College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Planar Linkages: Robot Arms, Carpenters' Rulers, and Other Devices
Abstract: A planar linkage is constructed in the plane from rigid links or rods that are connected with movable joints. Robot arms and carpenters' rulers are examples of planar linkages in which the links are connected to form a chain. We will examine the reachability region of robot arms, which are chains with one end fixed. Then we will go on to solve the minimal folding problem of carpenters' rulers with links of different lengths. Finally we will address some planar linkages that can be used to convert one type of motion to another type of motion.
ID:
364
Year: 2013
Name: Charles Ashbacher
Institution: Independent
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Are Drug Tests As a Precondition for Welfare Receipt Cost-Effective?
Abstract: Recently some states have implemented a program where an applicant for welfare must take and pass a drug test in order to receive benefits. Using the current law regarding how testing can be performed and some fact-based assumptions, a model for how cost-effective this program is can be developed. This model has been used as an exercise in a management science class as it can be applied to both public and corporate policies.
Year: 2013
Name: Charles Ashbacher
Institution: Independent
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Are Drug Tests As a Precondition for Welfare Receipt Cost-Effective?
Abstract: Recently some states have implemented a program where an applicant for welfare must take and pass a drug test in order to receive benefits. Using the current law regarding how testing can be performed and some fact-based assumptions, a model for how cost-effective this program is can be developed. This model has been used as an exercise in a management science class as it can be applied to both public and corporate policies.
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:
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:
116
Year: 2005
Name: Sean Bradley
Institution: Clarke College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Generalized Arithmetic Triangles via Convolution
Abstract: Pascal
Year: 2005
Name: Sean Bradley
Institution: Clarke College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Generalized Arithmetic Triangles via Convolution
Abstract: Pascal
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:
376
Year: 2014
Name: Kenneth Price
Institution: University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Arrowgrams: Tips and Pointers
Abstract: An arrowgram is a type of puzzle based on the transitive relation, directed graphs, and groups. To solve the puzzle a group element is assigned to each arrow of a directed graph. This is called a grading and the group element assigned to an arrow is called its grade. Grades for some arrows are given. The rest of the arrows are assigned grades using a rule which is based on transitivity. Arrowgrams also contain secret messages. The words are formed by pairs of letters which stand for the arrows. The puzzle is solved when every arrow is graded and the secret message is revealed. We answer some mathematical questions related to constructing and solving arrowgrams. How many arrows have to be given grades? Which arrows can be used? Can the same set of arrows be used for different groups?
Year: 2014
Name: Kenneth Price
Institution: University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Arrowgrams: Tips and Pointers
Abstract: An arrowgram is a type of puzzle based on the transitive relation, directed graphs, and groups. To solve the puzzle a group element is assigned to each arrow of a directed graph. This is called a grading and the group element assigned to an arrow is called its grade. Grades for some arrows are given. The rest of the arrows are assigned grades using a rule which is based on transitivity. Arrowgrams also contain secret messages. The words are formed by pairs of letters which stand for the arrows. The puzzle is solved when every arrow is graded and the secret message is revealed. We answer some mathematical questions related to constructing and solving arrowgrams. How many arrows have to be given grades? Which arrows can be used? Can the same set of arrows be used for different groups?
ID:
122
Year: 2005
Name: Monica Meissen
Institution: Clarke College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Factoring Trinomials with Less Struggling and More Success!
Abstract: This talk will publicize a surprisingly underutilized technique of factoring trinomials which is based on
Year: 2005
Name: Monica Meissen
Institution: Clarke College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Factoring Trinomials with Less Struggling and More Success!
Abstract: This talk will publicize a surprisingly underutilized technique of factoring trinomials which is based on
ID:
124
Year: 2005
Name: Erika Hartung
Institution: Central College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Prince Rupert's Rectangles
Abstract: How would you like to win a bet? Could your skills in mathematics help you? Over 300 years ago this was the case for Prince Rupert. He won a wager that given two equal cubes, a hole can be cut in one that is large enough to pass the second through it. Since Prince Rupert
Year: 2005
Name: Erika Hartung
Institution: Central College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Prince Rupert's Rectangles
Abstract: How would you like to win a bet? Could your skills in mathematics help you? Over 300 years ago this was the case for Prince Rupert. He won a wager that given two equal cubes, a hole can be cut in one that is large enough to pass the second through it. Since Prince Rupert
ID:
380
Year: 2014
Name: Russ Goodman
Institution: Central College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Planning a Course in Sports Analytics
Abstract: Sports analytics is becoming a popular topic of interest for many, but there are few mathematics courses that tap into this student interest. This presentation will offer the speaker's preliminary work in organizing a spring 2015 one-credit honors seminar in Sports Analytics. Comments, questions, critiques, and perspectives will be sought from the audience, as the planning for the course is ongoing.
Year: 2014
Name: Russ Goodman
Institution: Central College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Planning a Course in Sports Analytics
Abstract: Sports analytics is becoming a popular topic of interest for many, but there are few mathematics courses that tap into this student interest. This presentation will offer the speaker's preliminary work in organizing a spring 2015 one-credit honors seminar in Sports Analytics. Comments, questions, critiques, and perspectives will be sought from the audience, as the planning for the course is ongoing.
ID:
382
Year: 2014
Name: a m fink
Institution: none
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: complex roots of polynomials and why it pays to talk mathematics
Abstract: For quadratic polynomials, a negative discriminant is a criteria for non real roots. Is there one for nth degree polynomials? Sure,and I found it because I talked to someone who pointed the way.
Year: 2014
Name: a m fink
Institution: none
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: complex roots of polynomials and why it pays to talk mathematics
Abstract: For quadratic polynomials, a negative discriminant is a criteria for non real roots. Is there one for nth degree polynomials? Sure,and I found it because I talked to someone who pointed the way.
ID:
127
Year: 2005
Name: Rick Spellerberg
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: The Evolution of Cooperation
Abstract: This talk will present some of the basic concepts of Evolutionary Game Theory as we discuss models related to the evolution of cooperation. This talk should be of special interest to students or faculty interested in undergraduate research in mathematics. Included will be a preview of a few of the student presentations related to the topic that will be presented at the second annual Midwest Undergraduate Mathematics Symposium held at Simpson College April 9th.
Year: 2005
Name: Rick Spellerberg
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: The Evolution of Cooperation
Abstract: This talk will present some of the basic concepts of Evolutionary Game Theory as we discuss models related to the evolution of cooperation. This talk should be of special interest to students or faculty interested in undergraduate research in mathematics. Included will be a preview of a few of the student presentations related to the topic that will be presented at the second annual Midwest Undergraduate Mathematics Symposium held at Simpson College April 9th.
ID:
384
Year: 2014
Name: Susan Crook
Institution: Loras College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Generalized Augmented Happy Numbers
Abstract: What makes a number a happy number? Is it sitting on the beach with no cares in the world or is there more to it than that? In this talk, we'll mathematically define happy numbers and discuss some properties. We'll explore some of their properties and look at variations on the idea of happy numbers to see if we can extend any of these properties. This work was done collaboratively with other undergraduate math faculty at a Research Experience for Undergraduate Faculty this summer at the American Institute for Mathematics, so there will also be a short plug for REUs and the REUF.
Year: 2014
Name: Susan Crook
Institution: Loras College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Generalized Augmented Happy Numbers
Abstract: What makes a number a happy number? Is it sitting on the beach with no cares in the world or is there more to it than that? In this talk, we'll mathematically define happy numbers and discuss some properties. We'll explore some of their properties and look at variations on the idea of happy numbers to see if we can extend any of these properties. This work was done collaboratively with other undergraduate math faculty at a Research Experience for Undergraduate Faculty this summer at the American Institute for Mathematics, so there will also be a short plug for REUs and the REUF.
ID:
387
Year: 2014
Name: Debra Czarneski
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Student Presentations in Calculus II
Abstract: In Calculus II, I have student groups teach the integral application sections to the rest of the class. The groups of three students prepare and deliver the lecture, assign homework, and provide feedback on the homework assigned. In this talk, I will discuss the details of the assignment and student responses to the assignment.
Year: 2014
Name: Debra Czarneski
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Student Presentations in Calculus II
Abstract: In Calculus II, I have student groups teach the integral application sections to the rest of the class. The groups of three students prepare and deliver the lecture, assign homework, and provide feedback on the homework assigned. In this talk, I will discuss the details of the assignment and student responses to the assignment.