We who teach in the international community must understand the urgent need to encourage our female students in their pursuit of STEM courses. Females in math and science should not be labeled as "nerds" or seen as less feminine.
In 2014, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) published an extensive report titled "Why So Few?". One recommendation from that report was startling in its simplicity. That fact stated that "Girls who take calculus in high school are three times more likely than girls who do not to major in a scientific or engineering field in college." You can read the report here.
In 2014, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) published an extensive report titled "Why So Few?". One recommendation from that report was startling in its simplicity. That fact stated that "Girls who take calculus in high school are three times more likely than girls who do not to major in a scientific or engineering field in college." You can read the report here.
With that in mind and the subject at hand, which is the showing of films in classrooms in order to engage our students in learning, I recommend the following math films:
Stand and Deliver (1988) The story of teacher Jaime Escalante who endeavors to have all of his students take AP calculus by their senior year of high school.
Good Will Hunting (1997) The story of a young man working at MIT as a janitor who is actually a gifted mathematician. A psychologist played by the late Robin Williams helps him navigate his way in order to fulfill his purpose. (This one is rated R, so you will probably need to use clips only, or get special permission.)
Fermats Room (2007) Four mathematicians are locked in a room that is shrinking and will continue to do so unless they solve several mathematical puzzles.
Breaking The Code (1996) The first movie about Alan Turing, the great mind who broke the Enigma Code.
Now, I must admit, that these films feature male protagonists. I base my choice of the best movies about math on the quality of the math, not on the gender of the protagonist. Unfortunately, the few movies about women mathematicians are either too gory and sensationalistic or too preoccupied