Belward, Shaun, Matthews, Kelly E., Thompson, Katerina V., Pelaez, Nancy J., Coady, Carmel, Adams, Peter, Simbag, Vilma, and Rylands, Leanne (2011) Applying mathematical thinking: the role of mathematicians and scientists in equipping the new generation scientist. In: Proceedings of the Eighth Southern Hemisphere Conference on Teaching and Learning Undergraduate Mathematics and Statistics. pp. 12-21. From: Volcanic Delta 2011 the Eighth Southern Hemisphere Conference on Teaching and Learning Undergraduate Mathematics and Statistics, 27 November - 2 December 2011, Rotorua, New Zealand.

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Abstract

The ability to make effective use of mathematical and statistical thinking and reasoning within context is an essential skill for graduating science students. The challenge for educators in higher education is to determine how best to foster the development of these skills. Many argue this challenge is becoming greater, given the increasingly diverse student body (often with weaker mathematics backgrounds) and the increasing use of modelling and data in modern science (meaning that the need to be able to apply mathematical and statistical thinking and reasoning is increasing). This paper discusses the implementation of initiatives within four institutions (University of Queensland, James Cook University, University of Maryland and Purdue University) that address these needs. In addition to describing the initiative itself, the change process is described. Therefore each initiative is examined through a framework based on: the need for the change, vision for the change, implementation of the change and evaluation of the change. In particular we explore the role of mathematicians and statisticians in these processes.

Item ID:	21096
Item Type:	Conference Item (Research - E1)
ISBN:	978-0-473-20019-0
Keywords:	interdisciplinary; higher education; science; mathematics; educational change
Date Deposited:	19 Mar 2012 22:33
FoR Codes:	13 EDUCATION > 1301 Education Systems > 130103 Higher Education @ 30% 13 EDUCATION > 1302 Curriculum and Pedagogy > 130212 Science, Technology and Engineering Curriculum and Pedagogy @ 30% 13 EDUCATION > 1302 Curriculum and Pedagogy > 130208 Mathematics and Numeracy Curriculum and Pedagogy @ 40%
SEO Codes:	93 EDUCATION AND TRAINING > 9303 Curriculum > 930302 Syllabus and Curriculum Development @ 50% 93 EDUCATION AND TRAINING > 9303 Curriculum > 930301 Assessment and Evaluation of Curriculum @ 50%
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