• How does the Julia Robinson Mathematics Festival in Hong Kong work?
  We have over 25 tables each with its unique math problem set and has at least one facilitator. Starting at 10AM, students settle down to work at a table that they find interests in. Students are encouraged to stay on each activitiy for ~30 minutes and there is no pressure to finish any task on hand. They are then free to roam around from tables to tables and settle down at another table. They can go to as many tables as they like. Non-competitive math learning in the Math Festival is not speed or superficial answers, but to persist and persevere. Students collect raffle tickets from the facilitator at each table for demonstrating persistence in working on the math problems on hand or showing collaborative learning spirit (e.g., helping fellow peers at the table). At 12PM, a raffle will be held at the end to give out raffle prizes.
  
  
• Who are the facilitators?
  The facilitators are faculty staff members and students from local universities, school teachers and practicing mathematicians in the industry. They are all passionate about math. Experienced mathematics educator, Dr. Mark Saul from the American Institute of Mathematics (USA) will also be present to share.
  
  
• What students' age groups are suitable?
  Students, ages 10-16, are encouraged to sign up to experience deep, challenging but fun math problems (do see next question below). For now, we are building a bridge to advanced mathematics for this age group as a start. We will cater to other age groups in the future - stay tuned!
  
  
• Are the math problems easy or tough?
  The math problems usually start pretty easy (some are even meant to be played) and then progressively become more challenging. We use some previous-year JRMF math problems and also many new ones designed by us. The facilitators are there to guide the students. Years down the road, we hope the students will remember fondly the math problems just as Nancy Blachman, Founder of the JRMF once did.
  
  
• What can students take away?
  All students will be given a certificate of achievement at the end. They can also take away only the problem sets they have worked on. And, more to the point, they are inspired by math challenges and collaborative learning, and they take away fond memories of great fun in math!
  
  
• Can parents or adult chaperone participate?
  No, adult chaperones may not participate at the tables. The tables of math activities are meant for the students. However, we will have some chaperone tables where parents, while waiting for their children, may work on fun activities and play mathematical games. Refreshments are also open to adult chaperones.
  
  
• Any other question?
  Please contact Dr. Tan, Chee Wei by email cheewtan@cityu.edu.hk

Address: 2 Police School Road , Aberdeen, Hong Kong

Transportation

• MTR: Wong Chuk Hang Station (6 min walk)
• Bus: 48, 71, 72A, 75, 78, 107, N72
• Mini Bus: 29, 29A, 59, 59A, 59B, N4C

Information

• Mass Transit Railway (MTR): http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/homepage/cust_index.html
• Mass Transit Railway (MTR) [Mobile App]: http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/whatsnew/mtrmobile.html
• The Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB): http://www.kmb.com.hk/en/