Episode 5: Origins of Creativity and Math Education Innovation

08/18/24 • 31 min

6 Listeners

Show Notes: In this episode of the Culture Compute podcast, we explore two studies from the fields of neuroscience, math education, and education technology. Joined by special guest Will Lee from the UMass Amherst Computer Science department, who is a PhD graduate student by day and a software engineer by night, we delve into fascinating research on the neural origins of creativity and innovative approaches to mathematics education in the digital age.

In this episode, we discuss:

The role of the default mode network (DMN) in creative thinking and its implications for learning
How the brain's creative processes could inform educational technology design
Innovative use of Google Slides for enhancing math problem-solving skills in elementary education
The potential of student-designed math problems to deepen understanding and engagement

References:

Bartoli, E., et al. (2024). Default mode network electrophysiological dynamics and causal role in creative thinking. Brain. https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awae199
Maloy, R. W., Gattupalli, S., & Edwards, S. A. (2024). Students Design Problem-Solving Slideshows. Mathematics Teacher: Learning and Teaching PK-12 (MTLT). https://doi.org/10.5951/MTLT.2023.0215

Get in touch for Inquiries and Engagements. Email: sgattupalli at umass dot edu Website: ⁠https://culturecomputepod.com⁠ Research Portfolio: ⁠https://www.gattupalli.com/⁠

Until next time.

In this episode, we discuss:

The role of the default mode network (DMN) in creative thinking and its implications for learning
How the brain's creative processes could inform educational technology design
Innovative use of Google Slides for enhancing math problem-solving skills in elementary education
The potential of student-designed math problems to deepen understanding and engagement

References:

Bartoli, E., et al. (2024). Default mode network electrophysiological dynamics and causal role in creative thinking. Brain. https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awae199
Maloy, R. W., Gattupalli, S., & Edwards, S. A. (2024). Students Design Problem-Solving Slideshows. Mathematics Teacher: Learning and Teaching PK-12 (MTLT). https://doi.org/10.5951/MTLT.2023.0215

Get in touch for Inquiries and Engagements. Email: sgattupalli at umass dot edu Website: ⁠https://culturecomputepod.com⁠ Research Portfolio: ⁠https://www.gattupalli.com/⁠

Until next time.

Previous Episode

Episode 4: Special Episode on the Foundations of Culture

Show Notes:

Join host Sai Gattupalli for a special edition of the Culture Compute podcast as we explore the fundamental concepts of culture and its profound impact on learning and technology in the AI era. In this deep dive, we unpack how anthropologists, sociologists, and psychologists define culture, examine its key components, and understand why cultural intelligence is crucial in our interconnected world. From Edward Tylor's seminal definition to modern interpretations, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the concept that shapes our identities, societies, and technological innovations.

In this special episode, we explore:

Definitions of culture from anthropological, sociological, and psychological perspectives
Key components of culture: values, beliefs, norms, symbols, language, and technology
Cultural universals and their importance in bridging diverse societies
The impact of culture on education, technology adoption, and innovation
A touching story illustrating the power of culturally sensitive technology

References:

Contact Information:

Email: sgattupalli at umass dot edu Website: https://culturecomputepod.com

Host personal website: https://www.gattupalli.com/

Subscribe to The Culture Compute podcast on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated on the latest episodes exploring the intersections of culture, technology, and learning in our digital age.

Next Episode

Ep. 6: Quantum Education Online & Redefining Computer Science Stereotypes

In this episode, we explore two groundbreaking studies reshaping our understanding of education in the digital age.

We dive into the world of quantum information science, examining how complex topics can be effectively taught online to high school educators. What strategies make virtual professional development successful, even for advanced scientific concepts?

We also challenge long-held stereotypes in computer science education. How do today's youth perceive the 'ideal' computer science student, and what does this mean for inclusivity in tech fields?

Plus, we discuss the implications of these findings for educators, policymakers, and students alike.

Virtual professional development for quantum information science
Changing perceptions of computer science students
Implications for inclusive STEM education

Research reviewed in this episode:

Matsler, K. J., Lopez, R., & Singh, C. (2024). Applying Classroom Practices Learned from Virtual Professional Development During a Pandemic. The Physics Teacher, 62(1), 41. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1119/5.0107084
Wong, B., Hamer, J. M. M., Copsey-Blake, M., & Kemp, P. E. J. (2024). Is being clever enough? Young people's construction of the ideal student in computer science education. Educational Review. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00131911.2024.2379430
Smith, H., Closser, A. H., Ottmar, E., & Arroyo, I. (2020). Developing math knowledge and computational thinking through game play and design: A professional development program. Contemporary Issues in Technology and Teacher Education, 20(4), 660-686. https://www.learntechlib.org/p/215216/

Send your questions or comments about this podcast, or anything related to learning sciences and educational technology to sgattupalli at umass dot edu.

Host: Sai Gattupalli Music: Liborio Conti