Learning Objectives, MAT305/MAT594: History of Mathematics
At the end of this course a student will
- Be able to identify and discuss important people, events, and topics in the history of mathematics (Does Archimedes appear in the Bible? Was Archimedes the mastermind of the Siege of Syracuse? How did Archimedes impact and presage calculus?).
- Understand what motivated the development of various elements of mathematics (e.g. What role did astronomy play in the development of mathematics?).
- Be able to trace the trajectory of many important ideas in the history of mathematics into modern times (e.g. Does Pascal's triangle deserve its name?).
- Be able to use appropriate examples from the history of mathematics in life: if one is a teacher, in courses one is teaching (e.g. how can one use Zeno's paradoxes in teaching calculus?); if one is not, anecdotes will hopefully be relevant to other aspects of life (knowing Zero's paradoxes makes for some interesting discussions at dinner parties, at least)!
- Understand the role civilization has (and civilizations have) played on the development of mathematics, and vice-versa.
- Have an appreciation for false starts, diversions, multiple approaches, and big ideas of mathematics, many of which are likely unfamiliar at the outset.
- Be able to carry out calculations in arcane, obscure, forgotten, and possibly useless ways.;)
- Have practiced and developed their writing and oral communication skills.
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