SMS scnews item created by Larissa Fedunik-Hofman at Mon 26 Feb 2024 1644
Type: Seminar
Distribution: World
Expiry: 14 Jun 2024
Calendar1: 1 Mar 2024 1400-1600
CalLoc1: Law Annex Seminar Room 346
CalTitle1: Perspectives on Mathematics Special Semester: Introduction/Establishing important questions
Calendar2: 8 Mar 2024 1400-1600
CalLoc2: Law Annex Seminar Room 346
CalTitle2: Perspectives on Mathematics Special Semester: The Relationship Between Humans & Mathematics
Auth: larissaf@staff-10-48-22-72.vpnuser.sydney.edu.au (lfed9203) in SMS-SAML

SMRI Special Semester

Perspectives on Mathematics: Its Humanity, Culture, & Communication

Su, Tillmann

Sydney Mathematical Research Institute Special Semester

1 March – 31 May 2024

Course Description

This interactive seminar series will explore and illuminate the human side of mathematics—the culture(s) of mathematics, how we teach and do research in it, who we include, and the impact of how we communicate maths to students and the broader public. Discussions and invited presentations will help participants envision how they can improve the culture, practices, and communication around maths to better serve their communities. We imagine the topics will interest mathematicians, educators, and practitioners.

Seminar 1: Important Questions

In this first session to open the Perspectives Seminar, we will establish important questions we would like to tackle over the course of the term around the humanity, culture, and communication of mathematics. Meet others interested in exploring these topics, hear the organisers talk about the goals of the seminar, and participate in interactive activity and discussion. Suggested readings will enhance one’s experience in the seminar.

Seminar 2: The Relationship Between Humans & Mathematics

The seminar comprises five two-week blocks centred on a theme, and will meet 14:00–16:00 AEST on Fridays in those weeks (except for the Theme Two). Each block is followed by an intermezzo, a “free week” that allows participants to explore the theme further or to attend aligned events. Location is at the University of Sydney. See the calendar below for topics, dates, and rooms (some details still to be finalised). An abstract will be posted prior to each session.

We invite you to join us for rich discussions and interaction, especially in Week 1, when we set the stage for what will come, and you can connect with others interested in pursuing a holistic approach to maths and maths education.

We encourage you to register your interest in the series at this form (optional, but helps us to plan). If you have other questions, write to Francis Su. All talks are free and open to the public.

The special semester leads up to the International Congress of Mathematical Education that takes place in Sydney from 7–14 July 2024.