The University of Tennessee REU site aims to move twelve undergraduate students towards independent research through a fairly structured nine-week summer program. The program will specifically target the three primary components of mathematics research: broad and advanced mathematics learning, reading of specialized research papers, and problem solving. The program begins with mini-courses in three diverse areas that expand the general knowledge of all students while providing background for three specific research projects. Each project will be investigated by a group of 3-5 students. Teams of 2-3 researchers and one graduate student will advise and mentor students. Midway through the program a "progress week" will bring all students together for panel discussions and further lectures reflecting progress made (and problems faced) by each group. The research period ends with a wrap-up and writing period, followed by individual presentations.
Each participant in the program will recieve a stipend, housing, and in most cases, travel funding. Participants will be solicited from a variety of institutions, but qualified students who do not have access to the benefits of a large research university will be especially sought--as will female and minority participants.
