Detecting individual preferences and erroneous verdicts in mixed martial arts judging using Bayesian hierarchical models

In this paper, we use Bayesian hierarchical models to investigate the decision-making of judges of mixed martial arts (MMA) contests. Whilst there has been research into the judging of various sports in the past, none have explicitly modelled the judges’ behaviours at an individual level. We progress the literature by demonstrating that judges have personal preferences towards the different actions that they must assess during a fight. The preferences themselves may be the deciding factor in a bout, as demonstrated using a historical case study. We apply the concept of variable significance to the predictions of scores, to assess whether a judge's verdict was within reason. Finally, we develop a model that predicts a bout's fair outcome, which could be used in various ways in MMA

Workshop Report: Is Mathematics inclusive or exclusive? Putting colour, culture and context in the curriculum

The workshop, “Is Mathematics Inclusive or Exclusive?  Putting colour, culture and context in the curriculum” was held in January 2022 with the goal of supporting a national discussion around race and the mathematics curriculum in UK higher education.  This report summarises the talks and discussion, which related to racial and ethnic inclusion in the history of mathematics, race and culture in mathematics education, and ethics and inclusion in mathematics.   It concludes with a proposal of actions for individuals, departments and institutions and the mathematics community in UK higher education to move work on this area forward