Maths and Computer Science Pathway students took part in a real-world Maths modelling competition going head-to-head with teams across the USA, England and Wales.
The M3 Mathematical Modelling Competition is an annual challenge posed by Philadelphia-based Mathematics company MathWorks to encourage young people to engage in creating, using and analysing mathematical models based off a specific real-world problem, hidden from participants until the challenge date.
In teams of 3-5, students were tasked with answering three questions about the economic impact of online gambling in the US and UK, forming their own mathematical models using data provided with the problem. Teams have a 14-hour continuous timer in which they need to develop, use, critique and write up their answers to the three questions.
Simon King, Head of Maths at the College explained, “While developing mathematical models is not part of the A Level Maths curriculum, analysis and criticism of mathematical models is, so having the experience of developing their own models will give those who competed a fantastic insight into the process. Students are also encouraged to use programming software as part of their modelling, and some teams chose to utilise a variety of programmes to help them throughout the day.”
He added, “I’m incredibly impressed with how the teams tackled the task. This is a very unfamiliar situation for Maths students to have to engage with until they progress into degree-level Maths and beyond, so the enthusiasm that the teams showed was amazing to see. These students have shown tremendous perseverance, team working and communication skills and even if they are not shortlisted as finalists for the competition, I am very proud of the tenacity that they have shown.”
