The Ursinus Mathematical Association of America (MAA) Student Chapter is launching the MAA Fortnightly Question, a way to encourage students from all departments to participate in a different math problem posted around campus every 1-2 weeks. “Critical thinking is at the core of the Ursinus QUEST philosophy and we’re trying to integrate math-adjacent puzzles, so everyone is better prepared for life after Ursinus. Plus, math is fun!” shared members of the chapter, on the idea behind the concept. Stop by any floor of Pfahler or check out the bulletin boards in Bomberger, Olin, and Upper Wismer to find the problems. “Pfahler 101 is home base and includes the solution drop box as well,” members added.
The MAA chapter itself aims to promote the various fields and applications of math to the Ursinus community. As stated on the Ursinus website, “Any and all students are welcome to join; they need not be a math major or even be currently enrolled in a mathematics course.” This welcoming nature is reflected in the MAA Fortnightly Question, as they shared their goal to “engage with people in the way that we know how – logic mixed with creativity and a shared goal of success outside of the classroom.” The problems themselves will not require advanced math knowledge or experience, focusing more on logic puzzles that might have more than one way to solve.
Solutions will be posted next to the new MAA Fortnightly Question locations around campus, in addition to a list of those that submitted the correct answer – so make sure to attach your name to your submission! Submissions can also be emailed to MAA@ursinus.edu. “We also plan to post the solutions to the MAA Instagram page, so make sure to follow!” the chapter shared. Students, faculty, and staff alike can work individually, in teams, or even as a department on these problems. The MAA chapter encourages people to brainstorm with them as well; “we’d love for people to stop by the Math Help Room to spitball solutions!”
If you happen to see one of the MAA Fortnightly Questions around campus, make sure to take a quick look – you might just find a solution or two.