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
Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book
Learning, for Truth and Love:
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