Section NExT

Lunch and Workshop:  Friday, 12:00 noon - 2:00 PM 

Title:   Equity & Power Dynamics in a Student-Centered Classroom

Presenter: Geillan Aly, Founder of Compassionate Math

Abstract: The prevailing impression of student-centered classes is that they are a more equitable space for students to learn, with gender and racial dynamics seeming to be a non-issue for student outcomes. However, research indicates that this may not be the case; not all student-centered activities eliminate or reduce differences between marginalized and non-marginalized groups. In this talk, we will explore how power dynamics and mapping implicit biases can be used as a framework to create or troubleshoot student-centered classroom activities to ensure a more equitable outcome. We will specifically explore how structuring the power dynamics inherent in any activity can provide more equitable interactions between students, providing a space for all students to participate and thrive. Participants will have an opportunity to apply this framework to their current practices, and as such, they are invited to bring plans and materials for a student-centered lesson that they would like to modify to ensure more equitable student participation.

Bio: Dr. Geillan Aly, the Founder of Compassionate Math, is a math educator who centers the socioemotional factors that contribute to success in mathematics. She holds the fundamental assumption that learning math is both an emotional and cognitive endeavor. A former award-winning Assistant Professor who has taught for over fifteen years, Dr. Aly transforms math classrooms through engaging professional development and student-focused workshops that center emotions while establishing a culture of engaging with rigorous mathematics. She received her PhD in Teaching and Teacher Education and Master’s in Mathematics from the University of Arizona. Underlying Dr. Aly’s work is a dedication to equity and social justice. She enjoys traveling and seeing live music and is an avid chef, wife, and mother to a beautiful boy.

Look at the NES/MAA website under GET INVOLVED/SECTION NEXT https://www.northeastern.maa.org/section-next for information about NES/MAA Section NExT and the spring conference. Pay particular attention to the benefits for those in their first four years of teaching. 

Note: Boxed lunch is provided for this session.