President's Lecture Series

Sponsored by the Office of the President

Thursday, 9 September, 8:00 pm

Music Recital Hall

Mathematics, Computer Games and Gender

Maria M. Klawe, Dean of Science

University of British Columbia
Liking and learning mathematics is very important in preparing children for careers in science and technology. This is especially true for careers in information technology, one of the hottest fields for jobs for at least the next decade. Acquiring skill and confidence in using computers is also key, and for most children this happens primarily through playing computer games. The E-GEMS research project led by Maria Klawe studies the design and use of computer games aimed at helping children like and learn mathematics. E-GEMS also studies gender issues related to computer games and the use of computers in schools. This is important because most of the currently available computer games for ages 10 and up are more appealing to boys than girls, and boys spend significantly more time playing them. This is believed to be one of the main factors causing the low participation of females in information technology careers and in programs like computer science and computer engineering. In recent classroom studies, computer games created by E-GEMS have been shown to be successful in motivating both girls and boys to enjoy and succeed at learning mathematics. The talk discusses these issues as well as how game design and the way computer games are used at home and school affect girls' and boys' interest in playing, as well as their understanding of the mathematical concepts embedded in the games.

Maria Klawe is an internationally known mathematician and computer scientist who delivers energetic, accessible lectures. This talk is aimed at a general audience.