Thorough understanding of fundamental mathematical notions such as number and magnitude and their historical origins
Be able to combine history with mathematical content
Be able to work with and apply mathematics effectively both in teaching and in other social contexts
Course contents
The course gives a perspective of the main lines of the development of mathematics from antiquity to modern times with emphasis on the roots of school mathematics. Euclidean geometry, and the notions of number and function, will be particularly emphasized. At the example of the development of the notion of number it will be given a historical explanation for the increasing abstractness of mathematics. This includes various systems of representation of numbers (Egyptian, Babylonian, our own system) and it pertains also to the content of the number notion (natural up to complex numbers). In addition the historical development of the notions of mathematical proof, limit and algorithm will be discussed. By comparing the purely geometrical presentation in Euclid with Descartes`algebraic approach the students acquire a better understanding of the different branches and disciplines of mathematics.
Teaching methods
Seminars, lectures and obligatory written papers. The course has an expected workload of around 133 hours.
Parts of the course require attendance, detailed information will be given at the start of the course. If needed the teaching can be performed in English.
Examination requirements
Required assignments must be approved, see Canvas for more information.
Assessment methods and criteria
4-hour written examination. Graded assessment.
Evaluation
The person responsible for the course, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1. Information about evaluation method for the course will be posted on Canvas.