The Numberphile Podcast The Secret Math Journal - with Ellen Eischen
Jul 30, 2024
Ellen Eischen, a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oregon, fuses number theory with improvisational theater to spark creativity in teaching. She reveals her secret math journal and shares humorous anecdotes from her academic journey, including the unique challenges faced by women in mathematics. The conversation explores her early passion for math, the significance of mentorship, and how physical activities can enhance creative thought. Eischen also discusses innovative methods like collaborative storytelling to engage students and diversify the field.
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A Secret Math Journal Since Childhood
- Ellen kept a secret math journal from about age seven that mixed personal thoughts and math conjectures.
- In high school she separated the math entries and used it to explore primes, polynomials and visual patterns.
Meeting John Conway (And The Leapfrog)
- Ellen emailed John Conway and met him after her professor suggested it, leading to encouraging feedback on her journal.
- Her first meeting included Conway exuberantly yelling "leapfrog" as an energetic introduction.
Ask, Explain, And Note Your Gaps
- When struggling academically, ask others questions and explain your gaps to learn faster.
- Make deliberate notes of what you don't know so you can fill the gaps later.