nathan n. alexander
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Dear non-student visitors: This is a draft of introductory labs for first-year and pre-college students. Given the times we're living in, we  have developed basic samples of a few labs that are being used by our community to understand ourselves and the world better. As you consider a broader and more substantive set of resources, please make sure to visit the websites below (click on links):

Social Justice Mathematics and Science Resources by Dr. Kari Kokka

STEM Education and Social Justice Conference Website
Radical Mathematics



Summer 2020

Algebra for Equity and Justice

The Resurgence of COVID-19 in the USA

6/29/2020

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In class we've been discussing the impact of COVID-19 in our communities.

I was scrolling on Twitter the other day and I found this graphic (on @JSEllenberg's page, a math professor in Winsconsin). It shows trends in new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States. This is *super relevant to our discussions of the 'Library of Function' graphs. Which of those functions does the data follow?

I am interested in the presentation of this information. When you follow this google link, the graphic shown at the top of the Google webpage does not look like the one below. Why is this the case?

I've been looking for the graphic's source data but I haven't found it; I'll keep looking. But I want to know if there is more detailed data about the impact on certain communities or areas. I'm specifically thinking about our elders, lower-income communities, and communities that are primarily Indigenous, Black, and Latinx.
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Lab #3: Wage Inequities

6/26/2020

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In this lab, you will use linear functions to make sense of unfair and unequal pay. Historically, women and other marginalized groups have been compensated less than their counterparts for the same work and, at times, for more work. For example, in Georgia, Black women earn an average of 63 cents for every dollar earned by their white male counterparts (Georgia Budget & Policy Institute, 2019). In addition to this gap, some Georgia hourly workers are legally compensated at different minimum wage rates ($5.15 vs.$7.25) based on the Fair Labor Standards Act (U.S. air Labor Standards Act, n.d.).

After considering the legal implications of unfair and unequal pay in your state, you will consider a case study of two friends to help you think about income inequity and, more generally, impoverishment.

You can access the full lab here.

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Lab #2: Food Deserts

6/16/2020

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In this lab, you will use mathematics to understand food deserts. A food desert is a geographical area that has limited resources and access to affordable and nutritious food. Food deserts can be contrasted with a food oasis, which has better access to supermarkets, shops with affordable and fresh foods, such as vegetables.

By conducting original research, you will learn about food deserts and use your mathematical knowledge to make claims and support effective decision making.

You can access the full lab assignment here.

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Lab #1: Accessibility

6/10/2020

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In this lab, you will use mathematics to understand equity and design wheelchair ramps. Wheelchair ramps are an important part of society because they improve access for physically disabled and handicap persons and elderly individuals. They are also cost-effective and practical solutions that enhance mobility for us all.

Using your knowledge of ramps, you will submit your designs and mathematical computations.

You can access the full lab assignment here.
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Introduction to Algebra for Equity and Justice

6/9/2020

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I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to work with you this summer. Although we'll be learning mathematics virtually, we'll be using some new tools that will allow you to explore your current skills and develop new skills. In addition to our Blackboard site (which is where you should always go visit first!), this site can be used for you to gain access to important course links etc. I'll also post random things from time to time here that you may find interesting. Now, lets get to it!
My email: I can be reached at Nathan.Alexander@Morehouse.Edu.
Office Hours: You can book office hours by visiting https://nathanalexander.youcanbook.me
Your first homework assignment, with instructions, can be found here. Please click on this link and begin the assignment. The assignment will be due on Thursday June 11, 2020 by 5pm.

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    Dr. Nathan Alexander

    James King, Jr. Visiting Professor of Mathematics Teaching at Morehouse College

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