Dr. Diana O'Leary Presents at Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference

October 28, 2026

Dr. Diana O’Leary, assistant professor of education at Grand View University, recently presented at the annual fall conference of the Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM). 

In her session, “Experiential Mathematics for People and the Planet,” O’Leary shared mathematical modeling, simulations and collaborative problem-solving activities that connect classroom learning to real-world questions and scientific inquiry.

From calculating the carrying capacity of panthers in a habitat to creating three-dimensional pie charts illustrating global land use, the activities demonstrate how mathematics can help students better understand the world around them.

The hands-on lessons also strengthen foundational math skills, including estimation, algebraic patterns, decimals, fractions, linear measurement and number operations. Designed to align with the Iowa Core Standards, the activities offer educators practical ways to bring mathematics to life in the classroom.