"I was told there would be no math." That line from a Saturday Night Live sketch sums up a common attreaditude. When I started a science & faith Sunday School series of my own devising with some math topics, that was essentially the criticism I received from those who opted not to return for week two. I find myself more inclined to the sentiment "To Live Your Best Life, Do Mathematics," the title of a recent interview with Francis Su, friend of this blog, mathematics professor at Harvey Mudd and outgoing president of … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Math with a Flourish
mathematics
Science Corner: Arithmophobia & Other Language Barriers
For everyone who blanches at binomials, cringes at coefficients or detests derivatives: you're not alone! Even scientists may avoid math if they can, according to a study on the effect of equation density on the likelihood a scientific publication will be cited by other scientists. (Original paper here) The effect is small; for every additional equation per page, a paper is 5% less likely to be referenced. Still, the result is notable because it was observed in the physics literature, a discipline generally associated … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Arithmophobia & Other Language Barriers
Journalism Notes: Get Those Digits
Yesterday was Pi Day - March 14 or 3.14 - and I heard a little story about this on NPR as I was driving into work. It reminded me how much my journalism students hate math. … [Read more...] about Journalism Notes: Get Those Digits
Review: March Madness ’14 Finals, Dialogue . . .
Integrating faith & field vs. Realizing justice in action Yes, we've made it to the finals of ESN March Madness '14. I have learned a lot as we have wrestled with the question: What is the most pressing issue for the Christian to engage when journeying in higher ed? Please share your vote and invite others to do likewise. Winner will be announced on Good Friday (4/18). Note: If you haven't voted in ESN March Madness '14 (and invited others to do likewise), now is the time to engage to make sure your … [Read more...] about Review: March Madness ’14 Finals, Dialogue . . .
Candidate For What? — Collegiate Chemistry
Introduction Thank-you to Dwight Schwartz, Ph.D., for continuing his Candidate for What? series by sharing a glimpse of his undergraduate and graduate school journey. A few questions for you as you dive into Part 2 and 3 (Click here for Part 1): How do you relate to Dwight's journey through college (and possibly graduate school)? Are you (or did you) follow the recommendations of academic mentors? Have you found your studies giving you a larger perspective on real life? How do you share your journey … [Read more...] about Candidate For What? — Collegiate Chemistry