Calvin Cochran
Lecturer in Quantitative Reasoning
Research
My research focuses on evolutionary game theory models of human behavior. Of particular interest to me are Lewis signaling games, models of how agents might arrive at a linguistic convention without explicit prior agreement. I use analytical, experimental, and simulation-based techniques to investigate how a host of cognitively diverse species could develop a rudimentary language in such a setting. Also of interest to me are Nash bargaining game models of resource division, particularly as a how-possible explanation for the evolution of fairness and equity (or lack thereof). As a mathematician who uses techniques from economics to model phenomena of interest to philosophers, I am a fan of interdisciplinary research in general and encourage my students and colleagues to reach across the academic aisle as they push forward the boundaries of knowledge.
Teaching
I currently have the privilege of teaching QR 140 (Introduction to Quantitative Reasoning), QR/Stat 150 (Introduction to Data Literacy: Everyday Applications), and Stat 160 (Fundamentals of Statistics). These courses give students an essential mathematical foundation for future classes, help them appreciate the ubiquity of math across fields and in their own lives, and heighten their ability to think critically about the world and quantitative claims regarding it. Math anxiety gnaws at millions of people around the world, and my classes are designed to make the subject approachable, practical, and rewarding so that students might integrate mathematics into their future careers and daily lives.
Professional Interests
I think it necessary and enjoyable to keep up with the latest advances in pedagogical techniques. Novel active learning activities, assessment methods, and other teaching strategies are researched constantly, and I enjoy cherry picking the ones I think would work well in my courses. I also enjoy attending conferences on pedagogy and have a particular interest in reducing student stress, promoting critical thinking, and facilitating the success of first-generation students.
Personal Interests
If asked to summarize me in five words, most of my friends would say, "he likes Pokemon too much." I play the Pokemon trading card game competitively and Pokemon GO casually. I also enjoy ultimate frisbee, dogs, and board games of all kinds.
Education
- B.A., Hendrix College
- M.A., University of California-Irvine
- Ph.D., University of California-Irvine
Current and upcoming courses
Introduction to Quantitative Reasoning
QR140
In this course, students develop and apply mathematical, logical, and statistical skills to solve problems in authentic contexts. The quantitative skills emphasized include algebra, geometry, probability, statistics, estimation, and mathematical modeling. Throughout the course, these skills are used to solve real world problems, from personal finance to medical decision-making. A student passing this course satisfies the Quantitative Reasoning (QR) component of the Quantitative Reasoning & Data Literacy requirement. This course is required for students who do not satisfy the QR component of the QR & DL requirement via the Quantitative Reasoning Assessment. Those who satisfy the QR Assessment, but still want to enroll in this course must receive permission of instructor.
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Fundamentals of Statistics
STAT160
An introduction to the fundamental ideas and methods of statistics for analyzing data. Topics include descriptive statistics, inference, and hypothesis testing. This course introduces statistical concepts from the perspective of statisticians and mathematicians, with concepts illustrated by simulation. Students will engage with statistics using the data analysis software R. Designed for students who plan to continue to study statistics and/or apply statistical methods to future work in the sciences or other fields. The course is accessible to those who have not yet had calculus.