Technology enhanced mathematical sciences education
Mathematics, data and statistics are ever present in the modern world. It is crucial that innovative mathematical sciences research happens, but also research in how to communicate and educate mathematics better, from early years to higher education. This is the primary aim of the Technology Enhanced Mathematical Sciences Education (TEMSE) group at Heriot-Watt.
Despite mathematics being one of the oldest disciplines on the planet, it has remained remarkably stagnant in its mode of delivery and its content. In most higher education institutions, it is still the convention that a mathematics course consists of static notes alongside in-person lectures. Additionally, the content and curriculum of these degree programmes has remained remarkably unchanged for several decades.
The use of electronic assessment (e-assessment) within the mathematical sciences has massively increased over the past decade. This is partly due to ever-improving and accessible technologies, but also to the huge advantages e-assessment has for scalability, accessibility and instantaneous feedback. Additionally, the necessity of e-assessment within the mathematical sciences has accelerated due to the increasing demand of flexible learning.
The TEMSE group aims to address the more educational aspects of the use of e-assessment within the mathematical sciences; how to map conventional mathematics paper-based assessments so they are suitable and effective for e-assessment, and how e-assessment be used to enhance and improve existing forms of assessment.
The TEMSE group addresses these points by researching the effectiveness of innovative teaching methods within the classroom, such as flipped and blended learning, as well as modernising current mathematics curricula to meet the ever-increasing demands of industry and academia. We actively research effective uses of modern technology, to greater improve the student learning experience, as well as support the increasing demand for accessible learning materials within the mathematical sciences, to create dynamic and interactive workbooks that are accessible to all.
Mathematical Sciences are at the core of technological progress, driving innovations in artificial intelligence, data security, and computational modelling that shape critical sectors like finance, healthcare, and engineering. At the School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences (MACS), Heriot-Watt University brings together experts in mathematics, actuarial science, statistics, and computer science to tackle global challenges through interdisciplinary research.
By collaborating with industry and academic partners, MACS plays a pivotal role in supporting Heriot-Watt’s globally renowned research institutes, including The National Robotarium, The Lyell Centre for Earth and Marine Sciences and Technology, The Global Research Institute in Health and Care Technologies, and iNetZ+ Global Research Institute for Net Zero and Beyond. This ensures that MACS research has both theoretical significance and real-world impact, contributing to the university’s mission of advancing global innovation and societal benefit.