Supporting Students' Engagement in Community-Based Mathematical Modeling
0Day 1 | 7:30 PM–8:00 PM
"Supporting Students' Engagement in Community-Based Mathematical Modeling"
Presented by:
Zareen Gul Aga, James Madison University, Harrisonburg PA USA
Sayonita Ghosh Hajra, Sacramento State University, Sacremento CA USA
https://qubeshub.org/community/groups/simiode/expo/2025
Abstract: In this presentation, we will discuss community-based mathematical modeling (CMM) as a pedagogical tool that can help students develop their critical consciousness. This means developing students' ability to use mathematics to ask questions which can help them make changes in their lives and their communities. We provide an example of a CMM activity implemented in a Calculus I classroom. A total of 25 undergraduate students participated in the activity, selecting a context of personal interest, posing questions, developing constraints, formulating solution strategies, evaluating their strategies for effectiveness, and refining their work. Through these steps, the students explored the key elements of community-based mathematical modeling. We will share details of the task, its implementation, and the learning opportunities it provided for the students.