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The Institute of Mathematics and its Applications

How to Talk Maths in Public

An IMA Conference on Public Engagement

8-9 June 2010, University of Manchester

Mathematics is receiving an ever increasing public profile. From academics’ lectures and school masterclasses, to mathematical features in newspapers and television documentaries, popular books - even mathematicians modelling designer clothes in mens’ magazines - there has never been more mathematics on display. Mathematics holds an intrinsic fascination for most people, whether they feel they can understand it or whether they feel they are left baffled, and the usefulness of mathematics for the health of the Economy is often cited.

However, the need for professional engagement with the public in mathematics has never been greater. Whilst the UK has a remarkable tradition in research in mathematics and its applications, the public understanding in this country of the role and ubiquity of mathematics, at even a basic level, is woefully lacking. It can be concluded that public engagement in mathematics is at an unacceptably low level.  This is indicated in many ways ranging from the shortage of trained mathematics teachers and dropping standards in GCSE and A-level mathematics to the lack of understanding of the power and utility of mathematics by the decision makers in government and business.  Perhaps worst of all, it is still generally acceptable in the UK for individuals to declare (with pride) their poor mathematical ability!

The Event

Several key people are working hard to remedy the above deficiencies, but the handful of dedicated individuals that are engaged in the promotion of mathematics to the public needs to be reinforced.  We are thus planning a two-day conference, at the University of Manchester, which aims to provide a key mechanism for achieving this end.  It will bring together mathematicians already active in public engagement with others who want to be empowered to be the ambassadors for change.  It is targeted at academic staff in universities (especially early career mathematicians and research assistants), postgraduates, specialist teachers in schools and FE colleges, and others in industry, commerce and the media.

Leading mathematics communicators will speak, offer workshops and run interactive sessions.  These will include:

·           can a respectable professional mathematician engage with the public?
·           engaging with the press and media
·           writing a popular maths book
·           how much maths is too much?
·           routes to funding for public engagement
·           a talent show:  e x factor

General enquiries concerning conference arrangements should be sent to:

Amy Marsh (email: amy.marsh@ima.org.uk ) The Institute of Mathematics and its Applications, Catherine Richards House, 16 Nelson Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, England SS1 1EF. Tel: +44(0)1702 354020