MichMATYC 2002 Presenters

Haitham Al Khateeb, University of Indianapolis

Title: Undergraduate students’ understanding of division of fractions

Strands: Teacher Preparation 1-hour session

Abstract: This research study was designed to assess undergraduate students' understanding of division of fractions.  A paper and pencil instrument was administered as a pre- and posttest to 59 undergraduate students who major in elementary education.  Analysis by independent t test of written responses provided by students on the pre- and posttests showed lack of understanding, even post-instruction. 

John Dersch, Grand Rapids CC
Title: Ahhh, the good old days:  The First 250 Years of Mathematics in America. 1-hour session
Strands: History of Mathematics
Abstract: What was mathematics like in America in 1700?  In 1800?  What topics were taught at the college level?  In the lower grades?  What were the textbooks like?  What was the instruction like?  What kind of research was being done?  How thorough was teacher training?  Come and find out! Representative examples of 18th and 19th century textbooks will be available for your perusal.

Jim Ham, Delta College
Title: An Emerging Assessment Program 1-hour session
Strands: Assessment
Abstract:  Delta College has been working on its assessment program for ten years.  This emerging model includes assessment at the classroom, course and program levels.  The mathematics faculty are involved in assessment projects at all three levels.  The presenter will provide updates of these projects.  In addition, the presenter will share successes, failures, and some positive unintended consequences that resulted from the department's engagement in assessment activities. Come share your own college's assessment successes and challenges.

Barbara Jur, Macomb CC
Title: "The Lens of the Udjat Eye" 1-hour session
Strands:   History of Mathematics, applications/enrichment, and developmental mathematics.
Abstract: Egypt has produced some important and useful mathematics, both practical and instructive. From the use of unit fractions which the Greeks used to practical geometry to study texts, the mathematics of the Nile region is still of interest today. New discoveries and speculations are still being made about what the ancients knew about mathematics.

Doug Mace, Kirtland CC
Title: Introduction to the MathWorks Project 1-hour session
Strands: Application/Enrichment
Abstract: Mathworks is an interdisciplinary collection of open-ended laboratories designed by community college mathematics faculty.  Results of the usage of these laboratories at Kirtland Community College will be discussed along with an introduction to selected laboratories.

Jeff Morford, Henry Ford Community College
Title: Conclusions of Henry Ford Community College's Developmental Education Task Force
Strands: Developmental Mathematics
Abstract:  HFCC spent the last year reviewing its developmental program campus wide.  Come find out some of the conclusions we reached and some changes we are planning.  Find out what resources- colleges, articles and books- that we used in crafting our report.  Finally share what is new in developmental math on your campus.

Kathy Mowers, Owensboro CC, Owensboro, KY
Title: Online Elementary Algebra:  Can it work?   1-hour session
Strands:  Developmental Mathematics, Distance Learning
Abstract:  This presentation will focus on the presenter's experiences teaching elementary algebra online including successes, challenges, and format.  It will also include her thoughts on ways to web-enhance other mathematics courses, students' comments and her impressions and experiences.

Chuck Nicewonder, Owens CC, Toledo, Ohio
Title: Humor in the Mathematics Classroom?*.But Seriously 1-hour session
Strands: Articulation
Abstract: This presentation will explore humor as a necessary and fun component of any math class. Math-related jokes and other bits of humor relating to various levels of mathematics, as well as their use in the classroom and their effect on student performance, will be presented and discussed. There will be time for input and discussion by all those in attendance.

Jeffrey A. Oaks, University of Indianapolis
Title:  Algebra and Inheritance in 9th Century Baghdad 1-hour session
Strands: History of Mathematics
Abstract: To properly assess a medieval mathematical text we need to consider both its relationship to previous works in the same field, and to the social setting in which the work was produced.  I will be examining the _Algebra_ of al-Khwarizmi from these perspectives.  This will allow us to see not only what is innovative and what is not in his work, but why he took his particular approach to the subject.

Emily Omlor, Quant Systems, Inc.

Title: Automated Homework and Testing System

Strands: Probability/Statistics, DL, Teacher Prep., College Algebra/Trig/PreCalc, Dev. Mathematics

Abstract: Quant Systems courseware provides tutorials and assessments that extend instructional influence beyond the classroom. Intelligent feedback makes the problem-solving tutorials unique. By offering intelligent tutoring and mastery-level testing, the courseware encourages students to solve more problems while enabling instructors to measure progress.

Ann Savonen, Monroe County Community College
Title:  Less Lecture = More Fun
Strands: Teacher Preparation 1-hour session
Abstract: Do your math students love listening to long lectures with lots of abstract concepts, theory, and definitions? Do long reading assignments with the same information get them even more excited? If so, do not come to this session. This session will present the idea of a curriculum which minimizes lecture and the reading of long boring textbooks.  Instead, it encourages discovery, interaction, discussion, hands-on experience, and fun.  And yes, they will learn too!

Randy Schwartz, Schoolcraft College
Title: Making Historical Arab Mathematics Come Alive 1-hour session
Strands: History of Mathematics, Multicultural Mathematics
Abstract: Our curricula have scarcely acknowledged the scientific contributions of non-European people. My slideshow illustrates why the medieval Arab world soared in mathematics. I’ll also share activities whereby students in Finite Math, Statistics, Linear Algebra and Business Calculus can use these techniques to solve problems in combinatorics, linear modeling, and optimization.

Bill Stiggers, Texas Instruments

Title: Algebra Topics using TI-Applications with the TI-83 Plus

Strands: Teacher Preparation, College Algebra/Trigonometry/Precalculus

Abstract: Learn how to use and incorporate new and exciting TI-83 + applications into your current Algebra classes. You will learn how to use Algebra I, Inequalities, Transformations, Finance, and Polynomial Root Finder Applications to motivate students and teach algebra more effectively.

Gwen Terwilliger, University of Toledo
Title: Trials and Tribulations of Teaching Math via Distance Learning 2-hour workshop
Strands: Distance Learning
Abstract: Distance Learning encompasses a wide variety of methods from videos to interactive multi-media Internet presentation. What works for one course and/or instructor does not necessarily mean it will work for the next course and/or instructor – or even for that same course and instructor for the next group of students. Also, distance learning as a means for students to be able to complete their college education is an excellent tool. But, that does not mean that all students will be able to succeed in this type of learning environment any more than all students have one learning style. A successful distance learning course takes at least or more time than teaching in a traditional classroom. This means that any instructor planning or currently teaching a distance-learning course needs 1. careful planning of course, 2. ongoing assessment of the course, the presentation, the students, etc., 3. immediate evaluation after the course is completed for needed changes, and 4. constant learning about distance learning from what is available, what works (and does not work) for others, about the students taking the course, etc. This presentation will discuss a variety of resources and ideas for teaching math via the Internet. Participants will be able to access some of the Internet sites.

Mario F. Triola, Dutchess CC
Title: Issues in Teaching Statistics 1-hour session
Strands: Probability/Statistics
Abstract: Why divide by n-1 for standard deviation? Why not use mean absolute deviation? What features make a statistics course effective? Which technology should be used? Are projects important? Which topics can be omitted? These and other important issues facing statistics teachers will be discussed.

Deborah Zopf and Anna Cox, Henry Ford CC, Kellogg CC
Title: Let’s Talk: Conversations about Math for Elementary Teachers Courses 1-hour session
Strands: Teacher Preparation; Collaboration Learning/ Learning Communities
Abstract: This session will be an informal conversation focused on Mathematics for Elementary Teachers courses. Participants will be encouraged to bring ideas that they have employed while teaching these courses. Highlights from the AMATYC Summer Session on Teacher Preparation will be given.