| Deciphering codes. Problem solving sessions. Chaos
class. Mini-Golf? Although mini-golf might not be the first thing
that comes to mind when thinking about a mathematics camp for high
school girls, it was one of the many activities that the participants
of the All Girls/All Math summer mathematics camps were able to enjoy.
Twenty-five Nebraska girls were selected to participate in the 1999
All Girls/All Math camps held from June 13-18 and July 18-23 at the
University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
These on-campus residential camps were designed to provide a stimulating
and supportive environment for high school girls to develop their
mathematical abilities and interests. Weeklong courses on chaos
and codes were presented and participants had the opportunity to
interact with female mathematics professors, graduate students,
and peers who shared an interest in mathematics. Courses were taught
by NU professors Judy Walker, Wendy Hines, and Lisa Orlandi-Korner;
visiting professor, Jennifer Mueller of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute;
Sue Graupner of Southeast High School in Lincoln; and NU graduate
students Lisa Johnson and Theresa Strei.
One participant stated, "I always thought math was one of
the harder subjects to study, but this camp made me realize that
I can do whatever I want, as long as I have determination."
Another stated, "After participating in the All Girls/All Math
camp, I am much more confident of my own and other girls’
math skills and our abilities to learn new and advanced material.
Now I’m really interested in considering a career in mathematics."
In addition to a full day of mathematics, the girls participated
in various activities such as mini-golf, sand volleyball, picnics,
and laser tag. An evening of Valentino’s pizza, games, and
ice cream sundaes also gave the students time to interact with the
presenters on a personal level and to become acquainted with other
campers. One student said, "The camp allowed me to talk to
people who had careers in math and majored in math in college, and
it was fun seeing how math is involved in their lives. The best
part of the camp, though, was being able to interact with other
girls who also enjoy math." Another stated, "I really
enjoyed this new math experience! It not only gave me confidence
in my math abilities, but I was able to meet other girls that share
common interests with me."
For more information on the All Girls/All Math summer camps, please
contact The Center for Science, Mathematics, and Computer Education
at (402) 472-8965. |
