The Mathematics Clinic: An Innovative Approach to Realism Within an Academic Environment

Abstract

Introduction. Recently much has been said and written about the mismatch between traditional academic training in mathematics (both at the undergraduate and graduate levels) and the current and predicted job market for mathematicians. Evidence of this mismatch is widespread. In [1] a steady decline in graduate mathematics enrollments, accompanied by a general shift of student interest toward applied mathematics, is reported. Several new MS and PhD programs are being initiated ([2], [3]) with emphasis on training for non-academic employment. Thought is being given to the special preparation needed to train mathematicians for industrial careers [4] and to the role of the industrial mathematician [5], and new courses in which industrial mathematics is simulated are being designed [6]. In this article we describe experience with a new course developed at the Claremont Colleges, in whi'ch industrial and governmental problems are addressed, studied, and solved by teams of students working under faculty supervision. This approach was pioneered within the Engineering Department at Harvey Mudd College, beginning with a pilot activity in 1964 and led to the formation of the Engineering Clinic at that College. During the current academic year, the Engineering Clinic will operate a wide variety of Clinic projects involving about 70 students each semester. The Mathematics Clinic is patterned after this highly successful model. In response to the changing national funding patterns and job markets, the Claremont Graduate School developed, in 1973, four new Master's programs aimed at training students for immediate employment in industry, government, and two-year college teaching. At the same time, joint BS and MA programs with the same objectives were developed in concert with several of the undergraduate Claremont Colleges. Three of these four concentrations involve various aspects of applied mathematics, and the notion of a Mathematics Clinic was deemed of central importance in these concentrations. A first project was operated at Harvey Mudd College during 1973-74. In 1974-75, the Mathematics Clinic was developed jointly by Claremont Graduate School and Harvey Mudd College, and during the current academic year, Clinic projects are being operated which involve an average of 20 students each semester. Reaction on the part of students, faculty, and Clinic clients is overwhelmingly positive so far. Student participation in real-world problems provides stimulation simply not achievable in a traditional classroom environment. Clients, too, feel excitement through participation in an educational venture which they judge to be more meaningful than conventional ones. In addition, relationships are formed which may very well lead to jobs for the students and to a reduction in expensive on-the-job training for the employer. Furthermore, Clinic projects produce income which not only covers average project expenses but also provides stipends for graduate students and helps to offset some overhead expenses. Income this year from the Engineering Clinic will total approximately $200,000, while income from the Mathematics Clinic will total about $50,000.