Hayley Ganslaw

Create with Math

Create with Math explores the gender gap in math and provides insight on how arts-integration can close the gap by increasing student self-efficacy.

Click on the youtube icon to watch Hayley Ganslaw 's thesis presentation

Where is the Gender Gap in Mathematics?

Secondary Ed

In 2019, women made up 46.9% of those who took AP Calculus exams, but made up 66.5% of those who took AP English exams (College Board, 2019).

Higher Ed

In 2016, women were awarded only 35.5% of all STEM bachelor’s degrees despite making up a majority of those seeking a college degree (NSF & NCSES, 2019).

Workforce

In 2015, women held 47% of all jobs while holding only 24% of jobs in STEM fields (Noonan, 2017).

Why Bring Art into Math Class?

Arts-integration and project-based learning works to alter preconceived notions that students have of math by making it something interdisciplinary. As students expand their definition of mathematics through interactive, arts-based activities, they are able to see themselves as connected to the field as an engaged participant rather than an observer. They are encouraged to be creative and think about topics in a new way, facilitating creative problem solving, and interdisciplinary thinking. Changing students ideas of what math is changes their ideas of who is “good” or “bad” at it. If they see math as something that looks different in different circumstances, and is not as black and white as solving equations a specific way, they are able to see that there are different ways to be a mathematician.

Visualizing Math

One way to approach math-art integration is by having students look at math through the lens of being an artist. This involves having students come up with creative ways to explain mathematical concepts or work through problems visually.

Analyzing Art

Another way to approach math-art integration is by having students view their world as a mathematician. This involves having students search for mathematics in their everyday life by looking for patterns, shapes, and numbers.

Questions, comments?

Leave me comment below or email me at hsg295@nyu.edu