Public Lecture in Mathematics on Changing Perspectives

Courtesy of Michael Orrison

Professor Michael Orrison

As a part of its long-running Spring Lecture Series, the Department of Mathematical Sciences is excited to host a public lecture on Change of Perspective in Mathematics to be delivered by Michael Orrison, professor of mathematics at Harvey Mudd College.

The public lecture, which is held annually and is intended for a broad audience with varying degrees of exposure to mathematics, will be at 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 3, in Hillside Auditorium room 206.

Parking near Hillside Auditorium can be easily accessed at the Harmon Avenue Parking Garage. 

Title:  Change of Perspective in Mathematics
Speaker: Michael Orrison, professor of mathematics, Harvey Mudd College

Abstract: Change of perspective is ubiquitous in mathematics. Consider, for example, equivalent fractions, change of coordinates, u-substitution, Bayes' Theorem or even the simple fact that 2 + 3 = 3 + 2. In this talk, I'll offer some reflections on the unifying role that change of perspective plays when we learn, share, create and discover mathematics. I'll also share how conversations over the years with teachers, students and my own children have shaped my understanding of the power of change of perspective.

About the Speaker: Michael Orrison is a professor of mathematics at Harvey Mudd College. He received his A.B. from Wabash College in 1995 and his Ph.D. from Dartmouth College in 2001. His teaching interests include linear algebra, abstract algebra, discrete mathematics and representation theory. His research interests include voting theory and harmonic analysis on finite groups. He particularly enjoys finding, exploring and describing novel applications of the representation theory of finite groups with the help of his talented and energetic research students.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Zachary Bradshaw.