A General Framework for Incorporating Ethical Reasoning into Mathematical Modeling
0Presented by:
Rohit Thomas, University of California Davis, Davis CA USA
Erin Griesenauer, Eckerd College, St. Petersburg FL USA
https://qubeshub.org/community/groups/simiode/expo
Abstract: Ethical reasoning is an essential component of applying mathematical modeling in solving real-life problems, both in research and business settings. Our mathematical answers exist in a context of a larger system and have implications on the lives of others, the planet, and future generations. However, mathematics instruction often treats the mathematical work as if it exists in a vacuum devoid of context and omits careful consideration of stakeholders, validity of data, assumptions made, and limitations of the analysis. In this talk, we present a general framework that can be used to modify any mathematical modeling problem or project in a way to help students focus on the missing ethical reasoning perspective in the problem/project. Our framework is generalized in the sense that it can be applied to any course at any level, including the K-12 instruction. The framework provides flexibility to instructors in terms of the types and level of questions that can be asked, as well as the quantity. In addition to describing the general template, we will demonstrate the use of the framework on a specific example to clarify the application of the framework.