Exploring Personality Profiles with Matrices. Issue 7 (9th August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shaw, Christopher
• Is Part Of: PRIMUS. Volume 28:Issue 7(2018)
• Page Start: 641
• Page End: 651
• Publication Date: 2018-08-09
• Subjects: Linear algebra -- matrix applications -- project-based learning; Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; 510.711
• DOI: 10.1080/10511970.2017.1388316
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1051-1970

Abstract

Abstract: We present a short-term class project used in an introductory linear algebra course, designed to engage students in matrix algebra. In this activity, students responded to a survey of their pop culture tastes. Using the survey responses, they worked to design a series of matching algorithms, using matrices, with the goal of matching the students in the class to the person whose tastes most closely aligned with their own. The class then explored various ways of testing the quality of the match. Topics covered along the way included: symmetric matrices, vector products, and numerical interpretation of qualitative data.