Digital Commons Network^™

From The Symbol Of Inanna To Islamic Tessellations: Aesthetics Of Constructibility, Zhexiu Tu

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

We introduce a special symbol with a long history dating back to the Sumerian period. This symbol, which was first associated with the goddess Inanna, can be constructed with compass and straightedge, a property defined as constructibility in modern geometry. Nineteenth-century mathematicians proved systematically what types of polygons and polygrams are constructible. This algebraic result shared a striking consistency with the tessellations present in medieval Islamic architecture. The geometric patterns behind the tessellations as well as the symbol of Inanna itself, if properly remodeled, can be adopted as effective tools in the teaching of algebra and Galois theory.

Near-Peer Student-Run Virtual Stem Summer Camp: Lessons Learned, Andrew Lee, Jeremy Reynolds, Margaret Reynolds, Freda Li, Lubjana Beshaj

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

The United States Military Academy is uniquely positioned to contribute to our nation’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) outreach initiatives. As one of the country’s most highly regarded undergraduate engineering schools, the institution receives a steady influx of Cadet near-peer mentors who volunteer to lead STEM modules. When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down in-person STEM workshops for the better part of 2020-2021, the Center for Leadership and Diversity in STEM adeptly transitioned to a virtual platform. Informed by research on STEM education and delivery, the Center successfully executed its signature summer camp event in a virtual format for two …

Ethnomathematics Projects For Projective Geometry In Distance Learning, Wen-Haw Chen, Ja'faruddin Arsyad Ide

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

This article reports on an ethnomathematics project we developed and implemented in an online learning environment to connect with students’ cultural backgrounds and to highlight the links between their environment, culture, and mathematics. The project is based on Simple House Theory, a framework that involves the application of projective geometry in the design of traditional houses and building numbers. Our results show that this approach fostered active participation and engagement despite the standard constraints and challenges of distance learning.

What Does An Integer Sequence Sound Like?, Firdous Ahmad Mala

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

It may be difficult to assign a sequence to every piece of music, but a piece of music can surely be assigned to every integer sequence. The Online Encyclopaedia of Integer Sequences (OEIS), a comprehensive and collaborative database of over 350,000 integer sequences, offers a unique ’listen’ feature that converts numerical sequences into melodies. This sensory approach to sequences provides a novel way to experience the beauty and complexity of mathematical patterns. We describe the process of how integer sequences are mapped to musical notes, using modular arithmetic, and discuss the various parameters that influence the resulting sound. Highlighting specific …

On The Development Of Equations In Ancient China, Wanwan Huang

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

This article explores the evolution of equations in ancient China, detailing the development process through the presentation of various classical mathematics problems spanning four stages. We present these problems and their solutions, both using ancient Chinese terminology and modern language. With this work, we hope to offer an insightful examination of the achievements and limitations of ancient Chinese mathematicians in their work on equations, particularly in relation to culture, practical needs, and human creativity.

The Swaying Equations: An Exhibition Of Mathematical And Algorithmic Art, Awansika Nimuthumana, Anuradha Mahasinghe

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

An exhibition of mathematical and algorithmic art took place on 30th September and 01st October 2023 at the Lionel Wendt art gallery in Colombo, Sri Lanka. To our knowledge, this is the first-ever mathematical art exhibition in Sri Lanka. This report contains a brief overview of the artworks and some highlights of the exhibition.

Engaging Mathematicians One Step At A Time: Math Trails, Mary L. Dalton, Jennifer Yantz

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

Mathematics is present in everything we see and do. Sometimes we look past it, looking for some mathematical mystery when the beauty of mathematics is evident in the most obvious ways. One way to engage students to notice connections to mathematics in these everyday objects and events is to direct them in a guided math trail. A math trail is an activity where participants follow a map or guide to various locations while they are encouraged to take notice of connections to mathematical patterns and concepts in the objects around them. An important benefit is that going on a math …

Chatgpt As A Boundary Object Between In-School And Out-Of-School Mathematical Practices: The Case Of Numeracy Practices, Murad E. Jurdak

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

This article explores the theoretical basis and practical potential of ChatGPT in bridging the gap between school-based and out-of-school mathematical practices. Drawing on Cultural Historical Activity Theory and the concept of boundary objects, we highlight how ChatGPT can serve as a boundary object to connect these two domains. Our analysis of ChatGPT-generated lesson plans designed to align with out-of-school practices reveals that the model had the greatest impact on the social and institutional relations component of the numeracy practices framework [6], while their impact was weakest in the values and beliefs component.

An Unlikely Duo: Injecting Art Projects In The Lower-Division Mathematics Classroom, Douglas T. Pfeffer, Christina Durón

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

Too often society has sterilized mathematics to the point that many view it as drab and deplete of aesthetic intrigue---in higher education, this is particularly true of students in the lower-division classroom. In this paper, we propose the use of art projects as a novel way to alter this perspective. Art projects function as a hands-on, active way to invite students to both identify connections between math and various non-mathematical disciplines as well as view math as overall more intriguing, inviting, and interesting. This paper details our implementation and discusses anonymously solicited survey data that highlights our successes.

Teaching Mathematics For Labour Emancipation: An Autoethnography Of A Math Teacher In Mykonos, Dimitris T. Maris, Konstantinos P. Christou

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

A wealthy society does not necessarily ensure a good education for its students, just as it does not guarantee wealth for its workers. In this paper we visit a junior high school mathematics classroom on the Greek island of Mykonos, where a significant number of students are employed. In this context, we explore how a mathematics teacher, inspired by social justice mathematics, can empower students in their work environments. We adopt an autoethnographic approach in our narrative, presenting the process of designing and implementing specific mathematical activities aimed at revealing the issue of labour exploitation in the touristic Greek islands. …

Math Is _______: A Study On Prospective Teachers' Perceptions Of Math And Teaching Math, Kayla Mead, Katherine Baker

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

In this project, we examined one cohort of twenty-eight college students and their perceptions of mathematics at the beginning and end of a semester-long mathematics content course for K-8 prospective teachers (PTs). More specifically, our study explored PTs’ perceptions of what mathematics is and what mathematics teaching is, and how and why those perceptions might change over the semester-long mathematics course. PTs’ perceptions were captured through open-ended surveys and follow-up interviews. Our intention was to better understand the reasonings for changes in perceptions during the course to support teacher educators in their work of preparing prospective teachers.

Stem Major Perspectives For Humanizing Undergraduate Mathematics Classes, Kelly Macarthur, Derek Williams, Bryce Hughes

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

Using the eight dimensions of the rehumanizing framework [32] by Gutiérrez, built on a sociopolitical foundation, we report on research findings about what Latin* [41], Native American, LGBTQ+ and/or women science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors at two primarily white institutions (PWI) perceive as humanizing in their mathematics courses. In analysis of interviews with twenty students, we found that the core aspects of a humanized learning experience center relationality and a caring classroom environment. We then explore tensions that arose regarding the implementation of one teaching strategy reflecting the Cultures & Theirstories rehumanizing dimension, suggesting that implementation of such …

Rehumanizing Mathematics, Mark Huber, Gizem Karaali

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

No abstract provided.

Front Matter

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

No abstract provided.

Behind The Leaders: An Assessment Of Principal Supervisor Practices, Carla Roberts Austin, Kristie Roberts-Lewis

The Guardianship Journal

This research study explored the effects of district size and region on the roles of principal supervisors. Key factors examined include district region, span of control, and allocation of time for support and development by principal supervisors. The researcher compared principals’ perceptions of support they receive from their principal supervisor across different school district sizes and district types (regions) in Georgia, framed within the sociocultural learning theory. Participants selected currently serve as principals in Georgia’s rural, urban, and suburban school districts. A total of seventy-five principals agreed to participate in this study. Data were collected through a survey instrument. Descriptive …

Drivers And Barriers To Financial Transparency In Georgia’S Local Governments, Min S. Kim

The Guardianship Journal

This study investigates the determinants of financial transparency in local governments, specifically measured by the availability of financial documents on official websites. Hypotheses were developed to examine the relationships between financial transparency and three categories of influencing factors: community environmental characteristics, governance structures, and financial conditions. Using empirical analysis on a sample of 159 counties in Georgia, the findings reveal varying levels of support for the proposed hypotheses. Key determinants of financial transparency include population size, median household income, and the size of the board of commissioners. Conversely, financial condition factors were not found to significantly influence financial transparency. These …

University Student Organizations: Influence On Leadership Skills In The Workforce, James W. Ebert, Tomicka N. Williams, Aline K. Major, Kristi Pitts, Donna Yohman, Jodi Levit, Thomas Anderson

The Guardianship Journal

The modern-day workforce is ever-changing, and so are the required leadership skill sets for employees to be successful in the workplace. University student organizations (USOs) offer students opportunities to develop their leadership skills in preparation for the workforce. The purpose of this research is to conduct an empirical study that uses distributed leadership theory (DLT) as a lens to explore how USOs influence a student's leadership capacity in the workforce. Exploring the various components of DLT (autonomy, accountability, and leadership capacity) using an empirical research method approach is plausible in understanding the unique approach USOs offer students while simultaneously preparing …

An Empirical Assessment Of The Foreseeability Test, Griffin Edwards

Florida Law Review

This Article provides empirical support for the heavily debated role of foreseeability in tort law. In Palsgraf v. Long Island Railroad Co., then-Chief Judge Benjamin Cardozo argued that foreseeability is a necessary requirement to establish duty, while Judge William S. Andrews dissented on the grounds that duty describes the general relationship that exists in society and that foreseeability should be a consideration for proximate cause. Most consider this debate meaningful as dictating that when foreseeability is considered—in duty versus in proximate cause—will determine who considers it—judge versus jury. While conventional thinking suggests that a Cardozo view of duty implies …

Exploring Modern Data Accessibility Surrounding Police-Involved Killings Of Black Citizens, Chloe Robinson, Jenna L. Borseth

The Guardianship Journal

The need for greater data transparency regarding police-involved killings has been a recurring issue raised by scholars in the field. With limited means of using official policing data, research in the area of police-involved fatalities and other critical policing issues has relied on alternative data sources. While the government has historically failed to instill a mechanism for systematically collecting this information, the development of the Use-of-Force Data Collection in 2019 was an initial step in improving data transparency. The current study seeks to reassess the accessibility and utility of various data sources following the publication of the Use-of-Force Data Collection. …

Theatre As Exigency: A Case For Live Performance From The Ghosts Of The Theatre, Erin J. Schmidt

Theatre, Dance & Film Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Juggling Diapers And Diagnoses: The Trials Of Fatherhood And Medical School, Anderson G. White

Marshall Journal of Medicine

This paper explores the intersection of sleep deprivation and academic performance from the perspective of a third-year medical student and a new father. As sleepless nights become routine due to the demands of parenting, the impact on academic responsibilities is profound. Research indicates that new parents experience significant reductions in sleep satisfaction, which in turn affects learning efficiency and overall academic performance. The challenges of balancing medical studies with the chaos of fatherhood highlight the urgent need for institutional support and flexible policies to accommodate the unique circumstances of student-parents. Ultimately, while the journey is fraught with exhaustion, the joys …

The Implementation Of Faculty Development In Providing Effective Feedback Utilizing Simulation, Mark Gustafson, Jessica Amos, Lisa Calderwood

Marshall Journal of Medicine

Background

Feedback is important in medical education, but various factors can impact its effectiveness. Feedback frameworks have been created to address these challenges, but simulation-based instruction of these frameworks has not been studied. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of instruction utilizing simulation to teach faculty how to deliver feedback.

Methods

Faculty development feedback workshops were held from October 2022 through May 2023 at Charleston Area Medical Center Institute for Academic Medicine. Each workshop consisted of a didactic session and 3 simulated scenarios during which the faculty learner gave feedback to a resident. Surveys were conducted before the workshop, …

Introducing A Point-Of-Care Tool To Teach Health Science Students About Social Determinants Of Health, Cassandra Simpkins, Alexandra Bowman, Kathleen Bors, Meghan Allwes, Lisa Calderwood

Marshall Journal of Medicine

Background

Social determinants of health (SDoH) are recognized as modifiable drivers of optimal health and an opportunity to achieve health equity, yet many clinicians still experience barriers to addressing their patients’ social needs. To help connect patients to supportive resources, the American Academy of Family Physicians developed the Neighborhood Navigator (NN) tool. This study examined the impact of incorporating the NN tool into SDoH education for medical and pharmacy students and examined their perceptions of the tool.

Methods

This prospective study of third- and fourth-year medical and PharmD students included assessments before and after an SDoH learning activity. The survey …

Retrospective Chart Reviews: A Practical Approach To Designing, Collecting Data, And Writing The Manuscript, Olivia Hart, Jennie L. Yoost

Marshall Journal of Medicine

No abstract provided.

Ignatzschineria Species Bacteremia: A Case Report And Review Of The Literature, Katherine Sandomirsky, Mark Sayegh, Priscila Lopez, Yone Lwin, Sharon Mannheimer

Marshall Journal of Medicine

Ignatzschineria species, a member of the Gammaproteobacteria class of bacteria, is a gram-negative, aerobic, non-spore forming rod. This emerging human pathogen has been found in the digestive tract of the parasitic Wohlfarhtia magnifica fly. Infections in humans are uncommon and are usually associated with maggot infestation (wound myiasis). Rare cases of Ignatzschineria species bacteremia have been reported in individuals with myiasis of chronic skin wounds. Current literature describes 4 known species of Ignatzschineria: I. indica, I. larvae, I. ureiclastica, and I. cameli. An additional 2 cases of Ignatzachineria bacteremia were caused by Ignatzschineria species that were “unable to …

A Rare Case Of Gallstone Ileus In A Young Female: A Surgical Case Report, Justin West, Toufeeq Suliman, Pranav Balakrishnan, Curtis W. Harrison Jr., Md, Facs, David Denning

Marshall Journal of Medicine

Gallstone ileus, a rare yet potentially life-threatening complication of cholelithiasis, poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This is the case of a 36-year-old female with no significant medical history who presented with mid-abdominal pain and recurrent vomiting. Diagnostic imaging via CT scan revealed a cholecystoduodenal fistula and 2 large gallstones causing bowel obstruction. Following resuscitation, she underwent prompt exploratory laparotomy with enterotomy and gallstone removal, followed by an uneventful recovery and discharge. This case underscores the importance of early recognition and timely surgical intervention in managing gallstone ileus.

Atypical Presentation Of Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma With Metastasis To Breast Tissue, Tylar P. Seckman, Diane Krutzler-Berry, Mohamed Ashal, Waqas Mahmud, Krista L. Denning, Logan M. Lawrence

Marshall Journal of Medicine

Malignant neoplasms of the lung commonly metastasize to lymph nodes, bone, brain, and liver via hematogenous and lymphatic routes. Much less commonly, metastasis occurs in the breast. Secondary metastatic disease of the breast is very rare, with a reported incidence ranging from 0.4-1.3%­­—with primary lung cancer being one of the most anomalous sources. This case details non-small cell lung cancer metastasis to the breast with proven primary contralateral lung origination. This atypical finding prompts medical professionals to consider these malignant cells' immunologic, histologic, and pathologic makeup to understand further and treat the neoplasm.

A Decade Of Scientific Excellence: Celebrating The Marshall Journal Of Medicine, Darshana T. Shah

Marshall Journal of Medicine

No abstract provided.

Framing Generative Ai Through A Critical Media Literacy Lens: A Reflective Practitioner-Inquiry Study, Ali Söken, Kysa Nygreen

International Journal of Transformative Teaching and Learning in Higher Education

In this practice-based article, we share our experiences integrating Generative AI (GenAI) conversations into an undergraduate Critical Media Literacy course. Drawing from student surveys and self-assessments, qualitative analysis of classroom discussions, and reflective conversations between the authors, we found that our students perceived AI as both a learning aid and potential tool for cheating, depending on its intended use. We also found that students required more time and support than we initially thought to develop a critical perspective on GenAI tools. Reflecting on our experience and students’ feedback, we offer practical guidance for educators seeking to foster a more informed, …

Building A Global Partnership Through A Shared History, Lisa Lacross, Shawn Dillard, Bri Ard, Kern Jackson

International Journal of Transformative Teaching and Learning in Higher Education

Effective global partnerships in higher education promote intercultural awareness (Delong et al., 2011) and influence future study and work abroad experiences by articulating the value of global learning (Lewin, 2009). Seeking to broaden global engagement opportunities for minoritized students, specifically African Americans, one institution developed a virtual exchange program through a global partnership of stakeholders from Ghana, Togo, Benin, Cape Verde, and the United States. Grounded in a shared history of the 2019 discovery of the last reported ship to bring enslaved West Africans to the United States, students from Mobile, Alabama and Cotonou, Benin participated in virtual discussions that …