Tara Davis PH.D.

College of Natural and Computational Sciences - Department of Mathematics

Associate Professor of Mathematics

Education:

• Ph.D., Mathematics, Vanderbilt University
• M.A., Mathematics, Teaching Certification, Vanderbilt University
• M.S., Mathematics, McMaster University
• B.A., Mathematics, Minor, English, University of Hawaii at Manoa

Courses Taught:

• MATH 1105, Intermediate Algebra
• MATH 1130 Pre-Calculus I
• MATH 2214 Calculus I
• MATH 2220 Proof Writing
• MATH 3234 Mathematical Cryptology
• MATH 3305 Linear Algebra
• MATH 3316 Problem Solving for Mathematics Teaching
• MATH 3330 Abstract Algebra
• MATH 3500, Numerical Methods
• MATH 4920, Math Education Practicum
• ED 6440, Math Curriculum and Instruction
• HON 2000, Reasoning, Belief and Doubt

Teaching Interests/Research:

Dr. Davis’s research interests are in pure mathematics and mathematics education. In terms of pure math, she studies asymptotic group theory. Although groups are algebraic structures defined by three simple axioms, this rich and modern field encompasses areas of algebra, geometry, topology and algorithmic theory. The particular “large-scale” geometric invariants of groups that she is interested in are the relative subgroup growth function, as well as the subgroup distortion function. She is also interested in innovative and active teaching and learning, including inquiry-based learning.

Professional Interests:

Asymptotic Group Theory; Mathematics Education; Inquiry-Based Learning; Subgroup Distortion; Relative Subgroup Growth; Varieties of Groups.

Personal Interests/Biography:

Travel, gardening, baking, surfing and yoga.