Leslie Dacosta M.S., G.E. Program Math Faculty, Kathleen Lodge, M.S., G.E. Program Math Faculty, Elizabeth Sieminski, M.S., M.A. Ed., G. E. Math Program Faculty, Bridget White, M.S., M.A., Bridget White, M.S., M.A., Managing Assistant Director School of General Studies, General Education Program

K.U. General Education Student Learning Outcomes GE SLO’s which cover the areas of Knowledge, Skills, and Values, and are aligned with Kean University vision and mission SLOs. SLOs—Knowledge—Students will demonstrate proficiency in knowledge and content by: GEK1: Applying the scientific method to understand natural concepts and processes (KU1, 2, 4). GEK 2: Evaluating major theories and concepts in social sciences (KU1, 2, 4). GEK3: Relating literature to historical context (KU 1, 2, 4). GEK4: Evaluating major theories and concepts in the fine arts (KU1, 2, 4). SLOs—Skills—Students will demonstrate the skills and technology necessary to: GES1: Write to communicate and clarify learning (KU1, 4). GES2: Communicate effectively through speech (KU1, 4). GES3: Solve problems using quantitative reasoning (KU1, 4). GES3: Solve problems using quantitative reasoning (KU1, 4). GES4: Think critically about concepts in multiple disciplines (KU1, 2, 4). GES5: Demonstrate information literacy (KU1, 2, 4). SLOs—Values—Students will exhibit a set of values that demonstrates: GEV1: Personal responsibility (KU2, 3). GEV2: Ethical and social responsibility (KU2, 3). GEV3: Social and civic engagement (KU2, 3). GEV4: Respect for diverse cultures and perspectives (KU1, 2, 3). GEV5: Life-long learning (KU1, 2, 3, 4).

GE Skill 3: Students will demonstrate the skills and technology necessary to solve problems using quantitative reasoning (KU1, 4). So what exactly will they demonstrate? What technology will they demonstrate? What problems will they solve, and finally what exactly is quantitative reasoning?

Let’s think about what Quantitative Reasoning looks like… This is a scene from “Moneyball” a movie about baseball. Peter Brand (Jonah Hill) shows Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) a different way at looking at baseball statistics. This is a scene from “Moneyball” a movie about baseball. Peter Brand (Jonah Hill) shows Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) a different way at looking at baseball statistics.

What is Quantitative Reasoning? A. Solve real world problems with math. B. The ability to think clearly and critically about quantitative issues C. Deductive reasoning D. Students don’t have to know math now, they need to know how to use technology to solve math problems. E. Numeracy F. Algebra G. I have math anxiety

The Strands of QR

Algebraic Thinking What is it? Analytical tools for problem solving Reasoning skills Understanding patterns, relations and functions Representation skills

Algebraic Thinking Where is it used? Business Finance Science and Mathematics Computer Science

Algebraic Thinking How is it applicable? Business Modeling Mergers & Acquisitions Programming Research

Algebraic Thinking Why is it important? It has diversified applicability across multiple majors as a core and fundamental knowledge foundation in everyday activities Algebraic methods can be applied to many types of problem solving across the curriculum

Statistical Literacy “Statistical thinking will one day be as necessary for efficient citizenship as the ability to read and write.” -H.G. Wells Statistical thinking, or statistical literacy, is the capability to calculate, understand and explain statistical results.

Importance In the world today everything is about data. Data helps to make important decisions in the fields of psychology, sociology, criminology, economics, business, medicine, sports, education, engineering, and government (just to name a few areas). In teaching statistical literacy- the student is given the tools needed to think for himself and ability to communicate and use these findings to help shape their field.

Math 1016 Basic level of statistical literacy that can span throughout many disciplines Objective of the course is to have the student become “wise consumers” of data and to be able to make data “meaningful”

Math 1016 continued Course focuses on application Ideas covered include: - overview of descriptive statistics and basic probability - data appreciation and understanding of the basics - data collection, analysis and results - Written and verbal communication of the results

Assessing Statistical Literacy: Projects Explanation Examples

Project 1 Continued

Math 1010 Foundations of Math

Who? What? Why?

Math 1010 Foundations of Math Proportional Reasoning (Multiplicative Thinking)

Math 1010 Selected Topics: Sets Numbers and Numerals Linear Equations and Formulas Proportions Geometry Probability (math content)

Math 1030 Problem Solving

Who? What? Why?

Math 1030 Problem Solving Focus on solving methods using non-routine problems Develop multiple solutions to problems Analyze problems and solutions Practice meta-cognitive skills in problem solving  Why this method and not another?  Is this the best answer? The best solution?  What should I try?  Could I solve this problem in another way?  Are there other solutions?  What makes this problem easy/hard/solvable?  Why would I want to solve this problem?

Math 1030 Problem Solving Some methods/processes: Look for a pattern Draw a diagram, graph, chart Represent concretely/simulate Eliminate possibilities Guess and test Organize data Change focus/point of view/representation Estimate

Math 1030 Problem Solving Some topics/content categories: Classic problems and puzzles Logic problems Algebra Geometry Counting and Probability Proofs without words Paradoxes Real-life problems Problems with extraneous information Problems with missing information

Math 1030 Problem Solving Life is a word problem.

Maths Quantitative Reasoning Information Literacy Critical Thinking

Analysis/Analytical Thinking Maths Communication Research and Technology Sciences Liberal Arts Business.

Which strand of quantitative reasoning best suits your department’s needs? A. Algebraic reasoning (Math 1000/Math 1054) B. Statistical reasoning (Math 1016) C. Proportional reasoning (Math 1010) D. Problem Solving (Math 1030)

Did you find this session on QR effective? A. Strongly Agree B. Agree C. Neutral D. Disagree E. Strongly Disagree