MATH 432: History and Philosophy of Mathematics and Math Education

Course Description

Seminar emphasizing a study of research literature on the teaching and learning of mathematics, and on the history and philosophy of mathematics. Readings and discussions will focus on how mathematics has developed as a human discipline, the nature of mathematics and mathematical behavior, what we know about how people learn mathematics, and what all this means for the teaching of mathematics. Students will explore and discuss examples of ancient mathematics and classic proofs, compare and evaluate mathematics curricula, observe and analyze mathematics lessons, and will prepare and present a mathematics lesson. Prerequisites: Senior status with a major in Elementary Education and completion of 17 credits toward a minor in Mathematics; or completion of 8 credits in MATH 300-level courses or instructor consent.