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 221-240 of 471 results.
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ID:
308
Year: 2011
Name: Charles Ashbacher
Institution: #none
Subject area(s): Recreational mathematics
Title of Talk: A Simple Puzzle in Arithmetic Logic For Mathematical Exercise
Abstract: The KenKen is a simple math puzzle that was created by Tetsuya Miyamoto and is based on the operations of simple arithmetic on an n x n grid. The question of note is, how many puzzles are there up through the 9 x 9 grid?
Year: 2011
Name: Charles Ashbacher
Institution: #none
Subject area(s): Recreational mathematics
Title of Talk: A Simple Puzzle in Arithmetic Logic For Mathematical Exercise
Abstract: The KenKen is a simple math puzzle that was created by Tetsuya Miyamoto and is based on the operations of simple arithmetic on an n x n grid. The question of note is, how many puzzles are there up through the 9 x 9 grid?
ID:
309
Year: 2011
Name: Irvin Hentzel
Institution: Iowa State University
Subject area(s): First Semester Calculus, Group Work
Title of Talk: Group Activities In Calculus
Abstract: I have been devoting one day a week to group work in calculus. I show the type of activities that I have used. I have some data on the interest shown, and how these group scores compare with the traditional tests scores.
Year: 2011
Name: Irvin Hentzel
Institution: Iowa State University
Subject area(s): First Semester Calculus, Group Work
Title of Talk: Group Activities In Calculus
Abstract: I have been devoting one day a week to group work in calculus. I show the type of activities that I have used. I have some data on the interest shown, and how these group scores compare with the traditional tests scores.
ID:
310
Year: 2011
Name: Ruth Berger
Institution: Luther College
Subject area(s): Calculus (special session 1)
Title of Talk: Calculus at Luther College
Abstract: Calculus at Luther College: Over the past two decades Calculus instruction at Luther has slowly moved from Reform Calculus back towards a more traditional approach. Several aspects of Reform Calculus, especially the use of technology, have been retained as essential components to teaching Calculus in the modern age. The main reason we moved back to a more traditional way of teaching Calculus was that we found we needed a more intellectually challenging course with sound theoretical foundations for our math majors.
Year: 2011
Name: Ruth Berger
Institution: Luther College
Subject area(s): Calculus (special session 1)
Title of Talk: Calculus at Luther College
Abstract: Calculus at Luther College: Over the past two decades Calculus instruction at Luther has slowly moved from Reform Calculus back towards a more traditional approach. Several aspects of Reform Calculus, especially the use of technology, have been retained as essential components to teaching Calculus in the modern age. The main reason we moved back to a more traditional way of teaching Calculus was that we found we needed a more intellectually challenging course with sound theoretical foundations for our math majors.
ID:
311
Year: 2011
Name: Debra Czarneski
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Mathematics and Writing
Abstract: Each fall at Simpson College, Student Support Services helps a group of new students transition to college through the week-long CampusConnect program. The students in the program must be from low-income families, be first-generation college students, and/or have a disability. A one-week course is offered as part of the program. This fall I team-taught a Mathematics and Writing course with the Director of Writing Across the Curriculum. This talk will discuss the topics covered, the assignments given, and student responses to the class.
Year: 2011
Name: Debra Czarneski
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Mathematics and Writing
Abstract: Each fall at Simpson College, Student Support Services helps a group of new students transition to college through the week-long CampusConnect program. The students in the program must be from low-income families, be first-generation college students, and/or have a disability. A one-week course is offered as part of the program. This fall I team-taught a Mathematics and Writing course with the Director of Writing Across the Curriculum. This talk will discuss the topics covered, the assignments given, and student responses to the class.
ID:
312
Year: 2011
Name: Theron Hitchman
Institution: University of Northern Iowa
Subject area(s): geometry/analysis
Title of Talk: Harmonic Maps and Discrete Groups
Abstract: We explain a framework for how a new theorem about harmonic maps can be used to advance the rigidity theory of some discrete groups of matrices.
Year: 2011
Name: Theron Hitchman
Institution: University of Northern Iowa
Subject area(s): geometry/analysis
Title of Talk: Harmonic Maps and Discrete Groups
Abstract: We explain a framework for how a new theorem about harmonic maps can be used to advance the rigidity theory of some discrete groups of matrices.
ID:
313
Year: 2011
Name: Ronald Smith
Institution: Graceland University
Subject area(s): Introductory Complex Analysis
Title of Talk: Just Plane Numbers
Abstract: The vocabulary of a typical introduction to complex numbers challenges the beginner with a bewildering array of words with strong connotations of "imaginary," "complex," and "non-real." By combining a geometric approach to complex arithmetic found in Roger Penrose's book "The Road to Reality" with the interactive geometry package, Geogebra, we show that it is possible and even insightful to characterize these as just plane numbers.
Year: 2011
Name: Ronald Smith
Institution: Graceland University
Subject area(s): Introductory Complex Analysis
Title of Talk: Just Plane Numbers
Abstract: The vocabulary of a typical introduction to complex numbers challenges the beginner with a bewildering array of words with strong connotations of "imaginary," "complex," and "non-real." By combining a geometric approach to complex arithmetic found in Roger Penrose's book "The Road to Reality" with the interactive geometry package, Geogebra, we show that it is possible and even insightful to characterize these as just plane numbers.
ID:
314
Year: 2011
Name: Bill Wood
Institution: University of Northern Iowa
Subject area(s): calculus
Title of Talk: Squigonometry: Developing non-euclidean trigonometry with elementary calculus
Abstract: Differential equations offers one approach to defining the classical trigonometric functions sine and cosine that parameterize the unit circle. We adapt this approach to develop analogous functions that parameterize the unit "squircle" defined by $x^4+y^4=1$. As we develop our new theory of "squigonometry" using only elementary calculus, we will catch glimpses of some very interesting and deep ideas in elliptic integrals, non-euclidean geometry, number theory, and complex analysis.
Year: 2011
Name: Bill Wood
Institution: University of Northern Iowa
Subject area(s): calculus
Title of Talk: Squigonometry: Developing non-euclidean trigonometry with elementary calculus
Abstract: Differential equations offers one approach to defining the classical trigonometric functions sine and cosine that parameterize the unit circle. We adapt this approach to develop analogous functions that parameterize the unit "squircle" defined by $x^4+y^4=1$. As we develop our new theory of "squigonometry" using only elementary calculus, we will catch glimpses of some very interesting and deep ideas in elliptic integrals, non-euclidean geometry, number theory, and complex analysis.
ID:
315
Year: 2011
Name: Russell Goodman
Institution: Central College
Subject area(s): Algebra
Title of Talk: Baumslag-Solitar Groups and Their Representations
Abstract: The presenter will provide the audience with background on the Baumslag-Solitar groups and will share results from his search for simple representations of such groups. There will also be a discussion of the deformations of his simple representations and how this leads to determining the dimension of the representation variety and representation scheme at those simple representations.
Year: 2011
Name: Russell Goodman
Institution: Central College
Subject area(s): Algebra
Title of Talk: Baumslag-Solitar Groups and Their Representations
Abstract: The presenter will provide the audience with background on the Baumslag-Solitar groups and will share results from his search for simple representations of such groups. There will also be a discussion of the deformations of his simple representations and how this leads to determining the dimension of the representation variety and representation scheme at those simple representations.
ID:
316
Year: 2011
Name: Tony DeLaubenfels
Institution: Cornell College
Subject area(s): Mathematical Modeling/Applied Mathematics
Title of Talk: Math Modeling Course Confidential
Abstract: Mathematical modeling has in recent years become the course of choice to provide a foundation in applied math to math majors. Common traits of this course include
Year: 2011
Name: Tony DeLaubenfels
Institution: Cornell College
Subject area(s): Mathematical Modeling/Applied Mathematics
Title of Talk: Math Modeling Course Confidential
Abstract: Mathematical modeling has in recent years become the course of choice to provide a foundation in applied math to math majors. Common traits of this course include
ID:
317
Year: 2011
Name: Panel Discussants
Institution: #none
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Developments in Calculus Instruction
Abstract: All Special Session Speakers, along with representatives from several other institutions in the Section, will discuss and entertain questions about current and impending developments.
Year: 2011
Name: Panel Discussants
Institution: #none
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Developments in Calculus Instruction
Abstract: All Special Session Speakers, along with representatives from several other institutions in the Section, will discuss and entertain questions about current and impending developments.
ID:
318
Year: 2011
Name: David Bressoud
Institution: #non-IA section
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Issues of the Transition to College Mathematics
Abstract: Over the past quarter century, 2- and 4-year college enrollment in first semester calculus has remained constant while high school enrollment in calculus has grown tenfold, from 60,000 to 600,000, and continues to grow at 6% per year. We have passed the cross-over point where each year more students study first semester calculus in US high schools than in all 2- and 4-year colleges and universities in the United States. In theory, this should be an engine for directing more students toward careers in science, engineering, and mathematics. In fact, it is having the opposite effect. This talk will present what is known about the effects of this growth and what needs to happen in response within our high schools and universities.
Year: 2011
Name: David Bressoud
Institution: #non-IA section
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: Issues of the Transition to College Mathematics
Abstract: Over the past quarter century, 2- and 4-year college enrollment in first semester calculus has remained constant while high school enrollment in calculus has grown tenfold, from 60,000 to 600,000, and continues to grow at 6% per year. We have passed the cross-over point where each year more students study first semester calculus in US high schools than in all 2- and 4-year colleges and universities in the United States. In theory, this should be an engine for directing more students toward careers in science, engineering, and mathematics. In fact, it is having the opposite effect. This talk will present what is known about the effects of this growth and what needs to happen in response within our high schools and universities.
ID:
319
Year: 2011
Name: Elgin Johnston
Institution: Iowa State University
Subject area(s): Math Education
Title of Talk: The ALEKS Placement Assessment at Iowa State University
Abstract: We are in the process of introducing a new Mathematics placement tool at Iowa State University. This presentation will give some information about the ALEKS system, our background with it, and discuss some preliminary results from our analysis of the effectiveness of the tool.
Year: 2011
Name: Elgin Johnston
Institution: Iowa State University
Subject area(s): Math Education
Title of Talk: The ALEKS Placement Assessment at Iowa State University
Abstract: We are in the process of introducing a new Mathematics placement tool at Iowa State University. This presentation will give some information about the ALEKS system, our background with it, and discuss some preliminary results from our analysis of the effectiveness of the tool.
ID:
320
Year: 2011
Name: Jason Grout
Institution: Drake University
Subject area(s): calculus, software
Title of Talk: Free Online Homework with Webwork
Abstract: Webwork (http://webwork.maa.org) is a mature popular open-source system for online homework. Sponsored by the NSF and MAA, the system includes tens of thousands of class-tested problems for a large number of undergraduate math courses. Webwork has not only enhanced the quantity and quality of interaction around homework in my class, but it has also dramatically cut costs for students by enabling them to use inexpensive editions of textbooks. I will discuss how Webwork fits into the larger landscape of free open-source educational tools, how I use it in my class, and how you can set it up for your courses.
Year: 2011
Name: Jason Grout
Institution: Drake University
Subject area(s): calculus, software
Title of Talk: Free Online Homework with Webwork
Abstract: Webwork (http://webwork.maa.org) is a mature popular open-source system for online homework. Sponsored by the NSF and MAA, the system includes tens of thousands of class-tested problems for a large number of undergraduate math courses. Webwork has not only enhanced the quantity and quality of interaction around homework in my class, but it has also dramatically cut costs for students by enabling them to use inexpensive editions of textbooks. I will discuss how Webwork fits into the larger landscape of free open-source educational tools, how I use it in my class, and how you can set it up for your courses.
ID:
321
Year: 2011
Name: David Bressoud
Institution: #non-IA section
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: The Truth of Proofs
Abstract: Mathematicians often delude themselves into thinking that we create proofs in order to establish truth. In fact, that which is "proven" is often not true, and mathematical results are often known with certainty to be true long before a proof is found. I will use some illustrations from the history of mathematics to make this point and to show that proof is more about making connections than establishing truth.
Year: 2011
Name: David Bressoud
Institution: #non-IA section
Subject area(s):
Title of Talk: The Truth of Proofs
Abstract: Mathematicians often delude themselves into thinking that we create proofs in order to establish truth. In fact, that which is "proven" is often not true, and mathematical results are often known with certainty to be true long before a proof is found. I will use some illustrations from the history of mathematics to make this point and to show that proof is more about making connections than establishing truth.
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:
324
Year: 2012
Name: Courtney Sherwood
Institution: Simpson College
Subject area(s): Math Biology
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): Math Biology
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:
325
Year: 2012
Name: Jitka Stehnova
Institution: Mt. Mercy University
Subject area(s): Grants for Math
Title of Talk: Pi Day, STEM MNOS and ExploreU@MMU
Abstract: Last year, our department was able to secure funding for several different events and programs supporting mathematics on various levels. In this talk, I will talk about these programs, funding opportunities and grant writing.
Year: 2012
Name: Jitka Stehnova
Institution: Mt. Mercy University
Subject area(s): Grants for Math
Title of Talk: Pi Day, STEM MNOS and ExploreU@MMU
Abstract: Last year, our department was able to secure funding for several different events and programs supporting mathematics on various levels. In this talk, I will talk about these programs, funding opportunities and grant writing.
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:
327
Year: 2012
Name: Eric Canning
Institution: Morningside College
Subject area(s): Experiences with grants
Title of Talk: Who is Grant S. Stem?
Abstract: The Mathematical Sciences department at Morningside College was awarded an S-STEM (NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) grant for the 2009-10 through 2012-13 academic years. I will share our experiences, and maybe some advice, with writing the proposal and maintaining this grant.
Year: 2012
Name: Eric Canning
Institution: Morningside College
Subject area(s): Experiences with grants
Title of Talk: Who is Grant S. Stem?
Abstract: The Mathematical Sciences department at Morningside College was awarded an S-STEM (NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) grant for the 2009-10 through 2012-13 academic years. I will share our experiences, and maybe some advice, with writing the proposal and maintaining this grant.
ID:
328
Year: 2012
Name: Matt Rissler
Institution: Loras College
Subject area(s): Introductory Stats, Teaching with Technology
Title of Talk: Writing WeBWorK questions for Introductory Statistics
Abstract: WeBWorK is an Open-Source online homework system for Mathematics. The Open Problem Library contains many usable questions for Introductory Statistics. In this talk, I will discuss the current procedures for writing questions for Statistics and what improvements I have accomplished to simplify writing questions.
Year: 2012
Name: Matt Rissler
Institution: Loras College
Subject area(s): Introductory Stats, Teaching with Technology
Title of Talk: Writing WeBWorK questions for Introductory Statistics
Abstract: WeBWorK is an Open-Source online homework system for Mathematics. The Open Problem Library contains many usable questions for Introductory Statistics. In this talk, I will discuss the current procedures for writing questions for Statistics and what improvements I have accomplished to simplify writing questions.