MATH500: History of Mathematics


Revised: November 2006 (Kathy Ivey)


Course Description

Topics include the development of mathematics from ancient to modern times in many cultures with emphasis on methods, techniques, and algorithms of particular times and cultures. Additional topics include connecting the mathematics of a time and place with other types of academic/artistic thought.

A calculator is strongly recommended for this course.


Objectives

  1. To introduce students to the history of mathematics.

  2. To create an awareness of the development of mathematics as a subject within various cultural contexts.

  3. To introduce students to the contributions of a variety of cultures to the development of mathematics.


Text

Katz, V.J. A History of mathematics: An Introduction, Second Edition. Addison Wesley Longman, 1998.


Grading Procedure

Grading procedures and factors influencing course grade are left to the discretion of individual instructors, subject to general university policy.


Attendance Policy

Attendance policy is left to the discretion of individual instructors, subject to general university policy.


Course Outline

This course covers the development of mathematics from ancient times through the present day. Emphasis is on the mathematics of the time period and culture in relation to other forms of intellectual thought.