If you’re new to I’m a Mathematician, you might be wondering what to expect. So we asked Dr Paul Terrill, a pharmaceutical statistician who’s taken part in 26 maths Chats since September, to share his top three tips to help you feel confident and ready.
New to I’m a…? Start with the briefing notes ❯
1. Check the school and class for your Chat 🔍
At times, there may be lots of Chats running. Check the school and class of the Chat on your Dashboard before you start. That way, you know which one you are looking to join when you get to the Chat page. Make sure you join the correct one – with the class who’ve prepared to chat with you.
2. Prepare your go-to answers 📝
Over time, you’ll notice some common questions that get asked in most Chats. Have some answers ready to paste into the Chat.
Some insider info – for the Big Day of Maths, students have a task. They’re finding out 3 ways that maths improves lives. Don’t be surprised if you see that one more than once!
3. Be friendly, encouraging, and engaging 🌟
There’s always variety in students’ confidence and experience with maths, and how active they are in the Chat. Next to each student’s name, there is a number. That’s the number of replies they’ve received. Try to make sure everyone gets an answer.
If the Chat is quiet, ask the students some (easy) questions to get them going. You’ll also find that a small amount of interaction with the other mathematicians can help with the overall flow and feel of the Chat.
Find more tips in the mathematician briefing notes ❯
🖋️ About Paul
Paul completed his PhD in 1997 and has worked as a statistician ever since. He is an active member of the PSI (Statisticians in the Pharmaceutical Industry), a non-profit dedicated to leading and promoting the use of statistics in healthcare, to benefit patients.
Paul lives close to the hills in Shropshire. Outside of work, he does archery, running, dancing, is learning to play the drums, and goes camping (when he can fit it in!).
Got any more top tips? Let the team know! You can Chat with the I’m a Mathematician team throughout the week by popping along to the ‘Chat with us’ Chat. It’ll be open on the Chat page from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm each day. The team will be there to support you with any issues, or if you just want a friendly chat.