Gaps in Identified Themes – Implications of Technological Change and Advance

Technological change, what is here and what is on the way, has huge implications for

1. the organisation of teaching – the boundaries of the individual classroom are no longer so all-constraining
2. teaching resources – especially computer and web-based resources
3. course content and course priorities
4. the organisation of total teaching content
5. demands for upskilling, both in business and government
6. mathematical and statistical research and research priorities.

Item 1 has large implications for schools.  It now possible to expose students in all schools, for some part of their learning at least, to the best and most knowledgegeable. The severe shortage of really good mathematics and statistics teachers gives this especial importance. There is a real chance that less well equipped teachers will fill gaps in their knowledge as they listen along with their students.

For item 3, a key message is that what mathematics and computing can do together vastly enlarges what mathematics can to on its own.  The needed skills extend well beyond programming to the basics of software engineering. In particular, do not write new code if there is opportunity to take over and use existing well-honed code!

For item 4, issues might include

• Should simulation be taught and skills in the use of simulation developed alongside the teaching of statistical theory?
• Should numerical matrix algebra combine with the teaching of linear equations?
• Should numerical differential equations combine with the teaching of DEs?

For 5, a major demand is to take on board advances in computing technology.  Effective use of mathematical skills increasingly demands associated computational skills.  Additionally, such tools give access to mathematical and statistical modelling abilities of unprecedented sophistication.  Witness for example advances in spatial modelling (that space might be in a brain or a heart!) or in weather or climate or hydrological modelling.  In many different areas, the internet offers a whole plethora of new challenges and opportunities for collecting and/or using data.  Challenges to maintenance and upgrading of skills may be severe.  In-service upskilling has acquired a new importance.