The Future of Mathematics (Pure & Applied)

Outputs from the workshop held on 24^th May 2006 in Manchester at the Younger Mathematicians Conference

The workshop tried to discuss the future of mathematics Chris Budd chaired the session though several groups were formed to answer each of the topic areas discussed, across the groups there was generally independent agreement.

The distinction between pure, applied, statistics, Operational Research and other mathematical sciences is becoming less clear therefore:

       Pure/applied not needed anymore;

       Blue skies research into pure maths is still required as we do not know what studied as pure mathematics today might be found to be applied in a new area tomorrow;

       The Younger Mathematicians Conference run by the IMA needs to expand its talks to include more pure Mathematics.

Areas in industry and academia where mathematics continues to be useful and will be useful in the future include:

       Computer Science:

o        Search Engines;

o        Data Mining;

o        Games;

o        Quantum Computing. 

       Discrete and Optimisation Problems:

o        Logistics;

o        Operational Research (defence/finance);

o        Resources Management.

       Environmental Sciences (which include complex and non-linear systems):

o        Weather/climate modelling;

o        Eco-systems (Pollution, impact of global warming).

       Bio-systems:

o        Funding is a problem for this area.

For the UK (and the world) to be able to meet the requirement for this future mathematics it requires:

       Good Education (currently Maths education lags behind):

o        Students should experience a broad range of “mathematics” (particularly at degree level) to allow them to move out of their “comfort zone”;

o        The History & Context of the Maths should be taught to give more understanding, particularly in schools where understanding should be key (good numeric skills are not enough);

o        A leading famous mathematician (such as Brunei was) is required to inspire the younger generation and those still studying mathematics.

       Applications lag behind industrial needs, this needs to be improved through:

o        Clearer communication between Mathematicians and Industry needs to take place to make sure there is draw through on new  mathematical ideas;

o        Efficiency of mathematicians is important and the ability to use multiple techniques.

Conclusions

Mathematics has an exciting future ahead of it and it is time the Younger generation led the way.

OUTPUTS/ACTIONS FROM THE OPEN DISCUSSION

A number of important issues were discussed at the Younger Mathematicians Conference held on 24^th May 2006 these issues are discussed below.

       Look for a pure maths talk to be included at the Younger Mathematicians Conference-This is key for 2007 Younger Mathematicians Conferences

       Involve the London Mathematical Society (LMS)- Dan Tilley has approached the LMS and it is hoped that a liaison can attend the 18^th November Conference

       Have fun puzzles in Mathematics Today - These are being considered for inclusion in Maths Today.

       Write up all talks in Mathematics Today - This is an ongoing task and those who have given talks have been asked to provide written versions.

       Talk to the University Maths departments and get in there during “freshers’ week” to promote mathematics and the Younger Mathematicians Conference to new University starters.

       Make it clear that the workshop for the Younger Mathematicians Conference is optional. This is being considered.

       Potentially extend to 2 days-This has been discussed and is a possibility for one of the 2007 or 2008 Conferences.

o        Friday/Saturday would be best

o        Still an issue

§         Can it be classed as training?

§         PDP points?

§         Build into Chartered Status?

       Ask for a line in the budget to cover certain costs for IMA Youth Group and The Younger Mathematicians Conference- Amanda Padbury is putting this forward to the IMA council.

       Have feedback forms at the end of the event?-This will be actioned at the 18^th November 2006 conference by Dan Tilley and Amanda Padbury.

       Chartership and Competency Framework to be on the agenda next time-David Youdan has agreed to give a talk on Chartership at the 18^th November Younger Mathematicians Conference.