IMLSN Workshop 16
The Use of Technology in Mathematics and Statistics Support
The IMSLN ran a hybrid workshop (IMLSN 16) on Monday June 17th at TU Dublin (Grangegorman) and via zoom.
We reflected on staff and student use of technology, especially post COVID-19. In an environment where there is increasing use of AI across higher education, we were interested in both the challenges and success stories that arose from technology use (including AI). We also considered the key lessons and planning issues that will impact all our preparations for 2024-25.
Titles, Abstracts, Slides and Videos
Declan Manning - Generating Maths Solutions with ChatGPT
Abstract: In the domain of natural language processing, ChatGPT has shown a remarkable proficiency in understanding and generating text. However, using it in the context of mathematics introduces several unique challenges. In this talk, we explore these challenges and discuss potential strategies to overcome them.
Slides: Generating Maths Solutions with ChatGPT
Pádhraic O’Hanrahan - Demonstrating the use of digital tools in the blended instruction of Mature Students
Abstract: At Maynooth University, my job consists of two roles. On the one hand, I am a tutor in the Mathematics Support Centre (MSC) and on the other, I am the lecturer for the one-year, pre-degree, Certificate in Science for mature students. Students on this course typically do not have the required mathematical background to make the successful transition into third level and therefore require significant support.
During the pandemic, I had to experiment with how I delivered my lectures and assessments in an online environment, as well as explore options to support my students, like I would in the MSC. As a result of this experimentation, an online ecosystem for this program evolved where the best parts of the traditional instruction methods have now been blended with digital tools to aid in the instruction of students. Recognising the barriers to education with mature students, I have decided to keep a number of these tools alive post pandemic.
Currently, every student has the following digital tools available to them: access to filled-in lecture notes via OneNote, ability to attend lectures remotely via Microsoft Teams, and being able to watch timestamped recorded lectures via YouTube. While these tools were developed with lecturing in mind, I believe they would be applicable in a Maths Support context in the form of workshops.
In this presentation, I will show how I setup each tool, demonstrate how they are used, and explain how these different digital tools are incorporated into a coherent space for students to navigate.
Slides: Demonstrating the use of digital tools in the blended instruction of Mature Students
Aisling McGlinchey - Incorporating online resources into traditional Mathematics Learning Support
Abstract: To support the Irish maths learning support community, the IMLSN ‘Shared Mathematics Resources Project’ aims to provide easily searchable, reliable and targeted selections of notes, videos and interactive exercises in key topics in mathematics and make them available on the IMLSN website. Resources are chosen with the Irish context in mind, quick and easy to find, and for most topics, interactive exercises with feedback are provided. It is an ongoing project, from and for the IMSLN community, and we encourage colleagues to participate in the project, and to use it in maths support centres and other teaching.
