Mar 28, 2024  
2017-2018 Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

MAT 380 - Seminar in Problem Solving and History of Mathematics


Instructor
Ash

Mathematics is a human construct and endeavor; as such, mathematics has its own culture and history.  One can ask many questions: Who does mathematics?  How and why is mathematics created?; How does mathematics influence and affect the world, and conversely, how does the world influence and affect mathematics?  Are there revolutions in mathematics?  In this course we will discuss many of these questions and more.  Beginning with mathematics in the ancient world we will do mathematics as it was down within a particular time period and particular culture.  We will then trace the migration of mathematical knowledge through various geographical regions: China, India, and Europe.  Finally, we will explore the development of some more modern mathematics.  In particular, ideas related to calculus, linear algebra, abstract algebra, and real analysis.

This course will be delivered in a low residency format utilizing in-person meetings, synchronous sessions (students will meet in Studio D and the professor will have a digital presence), and asynchronous interactions through Moodle.  Please note there are no additional technological needs or cost incurred for this style of course.

Prerequisites & Notes
One of Mathematics 220, 230, 255 or permission of the instructor.