Exploring the State of Mathematics Education

In this episode of Learning for Truth and Love, Dr. Kimberly Weems discusses her academic journey and the current state of mathematics education. The conversation explores the influence of family on learning, the importance of external experiences, and the challenges faced by students in the post-pandemic educational landscape. Dr. Weems emphasizes the need for continuous review, the role of group work, and the potential shift towards data science in the curriculum. The discussion also highlights the significance of building confidence in math, maintaining positive attitudes, and the balance between rote learning and understanding. Finally, recommendations for improving mathematics education are provided, focusing on enrichment programs and engaging teaching strategies.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Learning for Truth and Love

01:19Dr. Kimberly Weems: Academic Journey and Background

13:19The State of Mathematics Today

17:39Trends in Math Education and Student Preparedness

24:33The Importance of Continuous Review in Math Learning

25:55Understanding Learning Gaps and Student Frustration

27:11The Role of Metacognition in Learning

28:12Group Work vs. Individual Study: Finding Balance

29:56Trends in Math Education: From Phonics to Data Science

31:34Rethinking College Math Courses: Algebra vs. DataScience

33:39Integrating Critical Thinking in Math Education

35:51The Role of Calculus in High School Education

38:05Teaching Strategies: Balancing Understanding and RoteLearning

45:01Overcoming Student Challenges in Math Learning

46:34Building Awareness in Learning

48:38The Importance of Data Science

50:53Innovative Approaches to Teaching Math

53:18Engagement and Real-World Connections in Math

55:42The Role of Class Size in Learning

59:09Promoting Positive Attitudes Towards Math

01:02:19Enrichment Programs and Their Impact

About Dr. Kimberly Weems:

Dr. Kimberly S. Weems is Associate Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Mathematics and Physics at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). She earned a BS in mathematics from Spelman College and an MA and PhD in applied mathematics with a concentration in statistics from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Dr. Weems completed postdoctoral studies in the Department of Statistics at North Carolina State University, where she later joined the faculty and served for two years as Co-Director of Statistics Graduate Programs. After moving to NCCU, Dr. Weems provided leadership for the NCCU Bridge-to-PhD program with NC State, designed to equip students with advanced statistical methods for analyzing atomic-scale data. Her primary research interests include flexible statistical models for the analysis of count data.

Her service to the mathematics and statistics communities includes the following: advisory board member of the Infinite Possibilities Conference for women of color in mathematics and member of the American Mathematical Society’s Committee on the Profession.

Dr. Weems has received teaching excellence awards from NCCU and NC State. In addition, she is a recipient of the Trailblazer Award from the University of Maryland Black Alumni Association.

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging

Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book

Learning, for Truth and Love:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠

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