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Seven questions with... Dr Amenda Chow

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Seven questions with... Dr Amenda Chow

by Lucy Rycroft-Smith, 14 August 2019
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Amenda Chow

Dr Amenda Chow is an assistant professor of teaching in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at York University in Toronto, Canada.

1. What’s your earliest memory of doing mathematics? 

When I was young and just learning arithmetic, my dad bought me math worksheet books so that I could practice at home. On one occasion, I recall my dad was impressed (and it takes a lot to impress him) with how accurately and speedily I finished each problem. And he was equally impressed with my explanations on how I solved the problems.

2. How has mathematics education changed in the time you have been involved in it? 

Outside of teaching math in the traditional classroom, I now see a lot more math enrichment programs that highlight the power, creativity and beauty of mathematics, and more young women engaged in mathematics. Often mathematics is a least favourite subject, but I also find those who do enjoy math continuing to build a strong mathematical community and in so doing, pushing to improve the understanding and value of mathematics to the general public.

3. Tell me about a time in your career when something totally flabbergasted you. 

I am often flabbergasted when trying to convince someone who is weak in math that they can excel in math. I truly believe this because math is hard for me too. The reason I know more math than the average person is because I spend a lot of time studying mathematics.

4. Do you practise mathematics differently in company? 

When I am around others who are talking about math, I am usually the one listening, watching and hence learning from them. Afterwards, I often find myself reflecting back on that conversation.

5. Do you think a brilliant maths teacher is born or made? 

Definitely made! Math is a hard subject even for someone with an affinity for math, and even harder is communicating mathematics effectively. I think the best math teachers are those that work on their craft continuously and patiently and that have a positive outlook.

6. What’s the most fun a mathematician can have? 

The satisfactory feeling you get when the math works out! I love that feeling!

7. Do you have a favourite maths joke? 

Mostly I prefer jokes in the form of puns. Here is my favourite math joke: How does a cow count? Answer: with a cow-culator! ☺



You can find Dr Amenda Chow on:

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