Mathematics of Social Policy

Leah Hoogstra, Basis Policy Research

Data has become an important tool in the creation and evaluation of social policy as well as a primary facet of our everyday lives. There is an increasing need to devise ways to funnel the flood of information into useful tools for learning and insight. In this context, a background in mathematics is essential in fields such as data science, program evaluation, and public policy. We will explore the variety of ways mathematics and statistics serve a vital role applied in the social sciences, specifically discussing the work of Basis Policy Research in the realm of K-12 education, bridging the gap between rigorous academic research and the daily challenges of educational practitioners. 

Refreshments precede the talk at 3:30pm in NH-282.