Xinli Wang, Faculty of Science, teaches an undergraduate course in Mathematics
SoTL scholar studies use of AI tools in teaching and learning math concepts
Applications open for the SoTL Support Fund – Teaching Scholar
Xinli Wang is a big fan of educational research. “I believe it is one of the most meaningful ways to truly make a difference for our students,” reflects Wang, an instructor in the department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, who received the 2023 Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Support Fund – Teaching Scholar award.
“As educators, many of us wonder if our teaching is effective. By carrying out a (SoTL) research project, we can gain many valuable insights. Designing the project gives us the opportunity to reflect carefully on our teaching methods, and partnering with a collaborator from another disciplinary background can open up new and valuable perspectives.” Wang worked with Brenda Stoesz, Research Lead – Science of Teaching and Learning at the Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, to study the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in student learning of mathematical proofs.
As Wang explained, the ability to read, write and understand mathematical proofs are essential to the study of mathematics, yet students often struggle to grasp foundational mathematical concepts and appropriately use mathematical symbols and language. As the use of generative AI becomes more popular, it is important to understand its benefits and limitations in education. Their research project focused on (1) whether generative AI tools can support students’ learning of mathematical proofs, and (2) whether these tools could increase engagement in the classroom.
Conducting the study
As a SoTL Teaching Scholar, Wang committed 40 per cent of one term to complete the project while the Faculty of Science received funding for a course replacement instructor.
Over the duration of the term, Wang introduced biweekly assignments to her class which involved revising a flawed mathematical proof generated by ChatGPT, followed by group discussion and review. By the end of the course, their analysis showed that students were able to develop the skills required to use the tools effectively and identify errors appropriately. Student responses were collected, by survey and interviews, to assess student engagement with the activities.
Overall, the study led to significant learnings for Wang on how to incorporate AI tools to support student learning.
What is SoTL?
The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) is the systematic study of teaching and learning to improve student outcomes and optimize educational experiences in post-secondary environments.
“The SoTL Support Fund supports innovative research that seeks to understand and enhance teaching and learning practices. The results have a meaningful impact on the learning experience of UM students and contribute to a growing field of study in post-secondary education.” says Mark Torchia, Vice-Provost (Teaching and Learning). “I encourage those who are eligible to consider how you can engage in this scholarship.”
Apply for the SoTL Support Fund – Teaching Scholar award
The SoTL Support Fund – Teaching Scholar award provides opportunities for professors, instructors and librarians to develop their portfolios related to educational leadership and teaching innovation. Successful applicants receive support to pursue a SoTL project and develop their teaching expertise through working with faculty and staff at the Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning.
Successful recipients can choose to commit 40 per cent release time in one term or 20 per cent release time over two terms to complete their SoTL research project. The recipient’s home unit will receive funding for a course replacement instructor(s).
Applications are open now for the SoTL Support Fund – Teaching Scholar, with a deadline of September 16, 2024.
New to the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning?
The University of Manitoba offers a variety of resources to support your SoTL journey. The SoTL Development Fund is for scholars who are new to SoTL, featuring an opportunity to attend the 2024 Symposium for Scholarship of Teaching and Learning in November in Banff, Alberta.
Find the full program criteria on the SoTL Development Fund intranet webpage. The application deadline is also September 16, 2024.