Math and the Mouse: Explorations of Mathematics and Science in Walt Disney World

Abstract

Math and the Mouse is an intensive, collaborative, project-driven, study away course that runs during the three-week May Experience term at Furman University and has many of the attributes of a course-based undergraduate research experience in mathematics. We take twelve students to Orlando, Florida to study the behind-the-scenes mathematics employed to make Walt Disney World operate efficiently. Students learn techniques of mathematical modeling (mostly resource allocation, logistics, and scheduling models), statistical analysis (mostly probability, clustering, data collection, and hypothesis testing), and flow management (queuing theory and some beginning flow dynamics) in an applied setting. Through planned course modules, collaborative activities, conversations with guest speakers, and three group projects, one of which is of the students’ choosing, this academic experience provides an engaged learning experience that shows how material from eleven academic courses comes together in connection with real-world applications.