MATS140 History of Mathematics (4 cr)

Open the course unit brochure on Sisu
Study level:
Advanced studies
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish
Responsible organisation:
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Curriculum periods:
2024-2025, 2025-2026, 2026-2027, 2027-2028

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An introduction to the history of mathematics from ancient to modern times.

Description

An introduction to the history of mathematics from ancient to modern times. Some emphasis on ancient cultures and on the genesis of the Calculus.

Learning outcomes

After the course student

  • knows the general development of the structures and concepts in mathematics since the classical antiquity until the end of 19th century
  • understands the roles of different cultures and individuals in the development of mathematics
  • knows mathematical notation and problem solving strategies from different eras and cultures
  • is aware of the development leading to the birth of the calculus and the later development of mathematical analysis
  • is able to connect the contents of other courses in mathematics - e.g. concepts, results, and different fields of mathematics - to the stages of history and the individuals involved in the developments.

Additional information

Planned to be lectured in spring 2025 and 2027

Description of prerequisites

Subject studies in mathematics (or at least calculus of multiple variables).

Geometry or Euclidean plane geometry is recommended.

Literature

  • Tieteiden kuningatar : matematiikan historia, Osa 2. Boyer, Carl B. ; Merzbach, Uta C., Art House 1994. (A History of Mathematics); ISBN: 951-884-158-6
  • Tieteiden kuningatar : matematiikan historia, Osa 1. Boyer, Carl B. ; Merzbach, Uta C., Art House 1994. (A History of Mathematics); ISBN: 951-884-150-0
  • Mathematics and its history. Stillwell, John, Springer cop. 2010. 3rd ed; ISBN: 9781441960528

Completion methods

Method 1

Evaluation criteria:
Homeworks and Course exam
Select all marked parts

Method 2

Evaluation criteria:
Final Exam
Select all marked parts
Parts of the completion methods
x

Teaching (4 cr)

Type:
Participation in teaching
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
Finnish

Teaching

x

Exam (4 cr)

Type:
Exam
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
Finnish

Teaching