Using Gapminder World and Excel to analyze world hunger in College Algebra Brian Hollenbeck Emporia State University KC Mathematics Technology EXPO October 5, 2012

Background Adjustments began about two years ago. Most students take at least one developmental course before taking College Algebra. Instructors range from tenured faculty to graduate students. Two options for College Algebra. Principles of Math is another option.

“Instructor-led” College Algebra Students meet in a classroom twice a week for lecture, quizzes, etc. Currently use Harshbarger text with a focus on functions (linear, quadratic, power, piecewise, exponential, logarithmic.) Little emphasis on polynomials and rational functions. Once a week, students work in groups on an assignment that reinforces material learned.

Weekly Labs – one approach Inspired by KSU Studio College Algebra Students meet in a computer lab and work in pairs on a lab that connects an application to the skills they’ve learned. Work is typically done using a spreadsheet. Students are expected to complete a take- home assignment covering the basics of Excel. Text includes examples. Some, but not all, will finish within 50 minutes. The lab is due two days later.

Food Theme ESU General Education courses asked to weave the theme of food into the curriculum Focus on issues related to world hunger Bonus options in addition to labs: –Blog: –Jumbo Food Map –Group presentation

Gapminder World Data available for 200 countries for the past 200 years for over a hundred variables. 5 dimensions of data for each country can be portrayed: –Color and size of bubble –(x,y) location of bubble –Chart is set in motion to portray time. See Hans Rosling’s TED talk for more details.

Examples Lab #2 – Slope (Poverty vs. Food supply) Lab #3 – Regression –Poverty vs. Food supply –Obesity vs. Food Insecurity Lab #8 – Inverses (Ag % vs. Income) Lab #9 – Exponentials –Population vs. time –Fertility vs. Income Lab #12 – Polynomials (Sugar C. vs. time)

Observations Students have a lot of questions, and a wide range of ability. Given some guidance, Excel does not seem to be a big hurdle for the students. Beneficial to have a change of pace. Not all students liked the labs, but some did: –“[Friday labs were] fun and interesting because its applicable to real-life situations.” –“Put problems into real life situations which was helpful. Usually I complain about math, but I am scared to say that I enjoyed it. Part of me wants to continue to study mathematics.”

For more info: Contact Brian Hollenbeck at Or visit esufood.blogspot.com –Food-themed labs and data available –Link to Gapminder World –Weekly blog post related to food