Mathematicians Can Be... Bulletin Board Kit | Diversity Bulletin Board

This bulletin board celebrates mathematicians from different backgrounds and can be a powerful tool for promoting diversity, inclusion, and a positive learning experience in mathematics. It aims to help students feel seen, valued, and motivated to pursue their mathematical interests and aspirations.

WHAT IS IT?

A kit that includes everything you need to create a diverse, rich learning experience for your classroom.

• 31 descriptions of various mathematicians and STEM pioneers from different backgrounds, including pictures
• 19 category headings that include: Female, Disabled, People of Color, Transgender, Famous, Youtubers... any many more!
• Large letters to create the board's title

WHAT'S SPECIAL ABOUT IT?

This resource is adapted from an amazing educator, Miss Mastalio, whose original blog you can find here. I created a version of her resource that was easier to read and had additional populations represented as well as a few more mathematicians.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

• Instruction page to help guide you through how to create your board
• Large letters to create the board's title (Mathematicians Can Be... YOU)
• 31 descriptions of various mathematicians and STEM pioneers from different backgrounds, including pictures
• 19 category headings that include:
  • Female
  • Male
  • Educators
  • Famous
  • Young
  • Musicians
  • Non-Binary
  • People of Color
  • Bakers
  • Immigrants
  • Foreign
  • Politicians
  • Amateurs
  • Disabled
  • Athletes
  • Youtubers
  • Transgender
  • Struggling with Mental Health
  • Ancient

HOW DO I USE IT?

The easy-to-follow instructions page will guide you through the (surprisingly quick!) process of putting this board together.

Why I Created This Resource

Diverse Role Models

Showcasing mathematicians from different backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, and cultures provides a diverse range of role models. This can inspire students who may have previously felt excluded or underrepresented in the field of mathematics. Seeing successful mathematicians who share their background can help students believe in their own potential and overcome imposter syndrome.

Breaking Stereotypes

Math has historically been associated with certain stereotypes, such as being a field dominated by white males. By featuring mathematicians from diverse backgrounds, the bulletin board challenges these stereotypes and emphasizes that math is for everyone.

Promoting Inclusivity

This bulletin board sends a message that mathematics is an inclusive discipline that welcomes and values individuals from all walks of life. This can create a more welcoming and supportive learning environment for students, which is crucial for their academic success.

Broadening Perspectives

Learning about mathematicians from different backgrounds exposes students to various perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and mathematical interests. This exposure can broaden their own horizons and encourage them to explore different areas of mathematics they might not have considered otherwise.

Cultural Relevance

Students are more likely to engage with and feel connected to a subject when they can relate it to their own lives and experiences. Representing mathematicians from different backgrounds allows for a more culturally relevant and relatable learning experience.

Career Awareness

Some students might not be aware of the various career paths available to mathematicians. Featuring mathematicians from diverse backgrounds who work in different industries or academia can help students see the real-world applications of math and the range of career opportunities it offers.

Encouraging Collaboration

By showcasing mathematicians from different backgrounds who have collaborated on research or projects, the bulletin board highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in problem-solving and teamwork.

Highlighting Contributions

Many mathematicians from underrepresented backgrounds have made significant contributions to the field, but their work may not be as widely recognized. The bulletin board can bring attention to their achievements, fostering a greater appreciation for the diverse contributions to mathematics.

Combatting Bias

Unconscious bias can affect how students perceive themselves and their peers in math classes. The representation of diverse mathematicians can help combat such biases and promote a more equitable learning environment.