RADFORD – Radford University’s College of Science and Technology is hosting a series of “Chalk Talks” for students to informally talk about their current research, field questions and receive feedback from faculty and fellow student researchers.

Scheduled for the last Thursday of each month, the first talks of the semester will be by mathematics major Catherine Inman on Thursday, Sept. 24 from 5 - 6 p.m. in Reed Hall, room 206.

Inman’s work, under the direction of her faculty mentor John McGee, was conducted as an independent study this summer and examines the use of software to create a dynamic visual model of a system based on mathematical equations with one or more parameters. Using the model, a learner can manipulate the parameters, receive immediate visual feedback, and answer computer generated questions. The software can analyze the learner’s responses and provide feedback to help the learner assess and correct their understanding of the material.

Inman will present her research at the International Mathematica User’s Conference in Champagne, Ill., in October.

“All researchers do chalk, paper napkin or scrap paper talks to informally tell interested folks what we are working on,” says talk organizer and biology associate professor Gary Cote. “Organizing our ideas on the fly helps us think through ideas and the questions attendees ask are often helpful. Now, our students have the chance to experience this invaluable professional experience.”

The “Chalk Talks” are open to faculty and students who want to learn more about student research on campus and to offer valuable feedback for outstanding student researchers. Students who think they might be interested in presenting are urged to contact Cote at gcote@radford.edu.