Description
This class covers the fundamentals of mathematical communication, including how to write clear technical exposition, give effective talks, and reach audiences outside the field. Assigned readings and class discussions address the role of mathematics in society and the impact of generative AI on its practice. The course culminates in an individual project, developed iteratively over four weeks, in which each student produces an original piece of mathematical communication that demonstrates both depth of understanding and thoughtful engagement with modern tools. Open only to math majors, this class assumes enough background so that students can focus on their communication skills rather than on new mathematical content.
Learning goals
Through active engagement and completion of course activities, students will learn to:
- communicate technical mathematics clearly and rigorously, both in writing and in speech, to other members of the mathematical community;
- adapt and present mathematical ideas to non-specialist audiences in an accessible manner through a range of media, and inform this practice by carefully considering context and motivation;
- draw from a range of expert viewpoints to critically reflect on the ways in which the practice of mathematics and its communication are evolving as a result of generative AI, and make informed decisions about the technology's applications.
Norms
Discussions are central to this class and, more generally, to the practice of mathematical communication. Indeed, we learn by explaining our ideas, asking questions, and responding thoughtfully to one another. It is therefore crucial that you come to each meeting prepared to discuss the material and to contribute your own perspectives. Importantly, you do not need a fully formed viewpoint to participate, as uncertainty, mistakes, and changes of mind are part of learning.
Throughout this process, we as a class share the responsibility for making these discussions useful and welcoming. Listen attentively, let others finish speaking, and take their ideas seriously. Speak respectfully, explain your reasons when you disagree, and direct criticism toward ideas rather than people. Ask for clarification before assuming what someone means, and stay curious when something is unclear. Make room for others to contribute, especially if you have already spoken often. In short, actively contribute to a class environment in which everyone feels safe and able to ask questions, try out ideas, and learn.
Grading scheme
Points are distributed as follows.
| Participation | 30 |
|---|---|
| In-class writings | 90 |
| Homework | 80 |
| Paper | 50 |
| Talk | 50 |
| Article | 50 |
| Final Project presentation | 50 |
| Final Project | 100 |
| Total | 500 |
All students automatically receive one Participation point and three In-class writings points for the missing Monday in Week 1.
The total number of points earned will be converted to a letter grade as follows.
| A+ | 490–500 |
|---|---|
| B+ | 440–449 |
| C+ | 390–399 |
| D+ | 340–349 |
| A | 460–489 |
|---|---|
| B | 410–439 |
| C | 360–389 |
| D | 310–339 |
| A− | 450–459 |
|---|---|
| B− | 400–409 |
| C− | 350–359 |
| D− | 300–309 |
Point totals of 299 and below will not result in a passing grade.
Attendance
Because the course relies on discussion, peer feedback, guest conversations, and in-class writing, regular attendance is expected. Participation and In-class writings are graded in every class, so an absence ordinarily forfeits the corresponding points. If illness, injury, or another significant personal circumstance prevents you from attending, contact the instructor as soon as possible. In extenuating circumstances, an alternative may be arranged on a case-by-case basis. Students who anticipate persistent challenges to participating in class should contact the instructor early in the quarter.
Late assignments
All work that is submitted late without prior communication with the instructor will receive no credit. In extenuating circumstances and with prior communication with the instructor, extensions will be granted on a case-by-case basis.
Technology and AI use
Students may not use computers or phones in class unless instructed to do so. All uses of generative AI must be precisely disclosed. The disclosure must carefully explain how AI tools contributed to the submitted work. Use of generative AI to substantially complete an assignment by entering a prompt and submitting the output as one's own work is not permitted. If you are in doubt about the extent to which a generative AI source is a permitted aid in the context of a particular assignment, talk with the instructor.
Students may obtain an AI subscription through University IT and choose from ChatGPT Edu, Claude for Education, or Gemini Enterprise.
Accommodations
Stanford University is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible educational environment for all students. Students seeking disability-related accommodations should contact the Office of Accessible Education (OAE) as early as possible to initiate the accommodation process. Once accommodations are approved, students should provide their accommodation letter to the instructor and discuss implementation within the course. Early communication supports timely access to course materials, instruction, and assessments. For more information, please visit oae.stanford.edu.
Academic integrity
You will be evaluated in this course as an individual and are expected, as a matter of academic, intellectual, and creative integrity, to cite any sources you use and any individuals from whom you have learned or borrowed material. Collaboration is encouraged during class activities and where an assignment explicitly permits it, but submitted work must be your own, and collaborators and their contributions must be cited. Failure to abide by these expectations is a violation of Stanford's Honor Code and is a serious offense, even when the violation is unintentional. Conduct prohibited by the Honor Code includes all forms of academic dishonesty, among them unpermitted collaboration and representing others' work as one's own. Please review Stanford's Honor Code and documentation and citation resources from the Hume Center for Writing and Speaking. When in doubt, contact the instructor.