1. Explore Interesting and Relevant Mathematics
Theoretical physics research fields employ a wide array of sophisticated mathematical tools, and students can benefit from an exploration of diverse, fundamental techniques. In finding common, mathematical ground, such inquiry can bring together researchers from across subfields, institutes, and departments. The MAP seminars provide an ideal setting for such study, with a clear motivation from applications to current research.
2. Enhance Mathematical Preparation for Research
The gap between courses and research can be vast, especially within theoretical physics research fields. Often, graduate students are expected to independently acquire at least the “theoretical minimum” by parsing the introductions of well-known papers, searching the internet, etc. MAP seminars provide another resource for students preparing for research, by hosting pedagogical, approachable discussions of the underlying mathematical tools and exploring their usage in the field.
3. Increase Collaborative Learning and Guided Discussion
As noted above, newcomers to research are often tasked with independent study of relevant, underlying mathematics. MAP seminars bring this study into the collaborative arena by fostering a community setting for guided discussions of mathematical topics. Further, MAP seminars strengthen the interdisciplinary potential within the Physics and Math departments by increasing the shared understanding of common theoretical tools.
4. Create Persisted Resources for Future Students
Each MAP Chat session will have accompanying notes, uploaded to the MAP Chat website. In addition, any notes provided by speakers for focus sessions will be revised and uploaded.
5. Complement other Pedagogical Programs
If it is known that an upcoming seminar may have extensive mathematical background perquisites, such as in FTS, ILQG, GAP, or others, then MAP Chat can aim to prepare graduate students for that talk. Additionally, MAP seminars will coordinate where possible with potential future programs such as topic reading groups, common reference databases, and others.