Questions related to the teaching and learning of mathematics.
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2answers
78 views
Help on French Math Education Paper
I am looking for very basic (probably I should say very elementary) papers in french designed for elementary school teachers and elementary school educators. I would appreciate if someone can provide ...
7
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2answers
896 views
Path to Basics in Algebraic Geometry from HS Algebra and Calculus?
In this question, Why study Algebraic Geometry?, Javier Álvarez, develops a succint but encompassing description of algebraic geometry and its spread across different areas of mathematics. Indeed, it ...
2
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1answer
199 views
How should I approach the study of Linear Algebra?
I'm a second-year college student having just previously finished calculus (derivatives and integrals, we never really got too far into multivariable calculus though we briefly went over some Taylor ...
11
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1answer
174 views
Developing research experience in mathematics
I am not sure whether this is the right forum for this question, so it might be migrated somewhere else; but, it is, I think, certainly germane to the wider idea of pursuing interesting questions and ...
2
votes
1answer
70 views
Theory of Equations and Undergraduate Mathematics
I was browsing through a book entitled: Field Theory and Its Classical Problems by Charles Hadlock, one of the Carus Mathematical Monographs titles. In his preface he says the following:
In ...
16
votes
6answers
663 views
How to go from beginner to expert in mathematics?
I'm particularly interested in knowing the order of subjects one should study to become good in mathematics. In my not so great knowledge of the subject I would say that the best place to start could ...
5
votes
1answer
250 views
What is the expected mathematical repertoire of a Ph.D. program applicant?
I am an undergraduate (currently a sophomore) studying to prepare for applying to a Ph.D. program in mathematics. I have thus far structured my course selection upon the advice of a friend I met ...
5
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0answers
108 views
Bayes analysis as used in a Presidential Election - with calculations shown
Can you show all the steps needed for a Bayesian probability progression as new information is received. As an example, initial estimate for Obama to win (popular vote) is 55%. In state-A, Democrats ...
0
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0answers
45 views
Is there a way to check my group theory answers?
Tomorrow if my group theory exam and, if the paper is how I would like it to be, then the questions I will be answering will be basically along the lines of:
1) Work out the centralizer
2) Check ...
14
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5answers
644 views
Is high school contest math useful after high school?
I've been prepping for a lot of high school math competitions this year, and I was just wondering if all the math I learn would actually mean something in college. There is a chance that all of it ...
5
votes
2answers
166 views
How does one best balance learning from a “problem based book” with supplementary material?
We all know that when learning math, one has to do more than just simply read - one must try to solve problems and work actively with the material.
Many books try to force the reader to participate ...
0
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0answers
59 views
What are some good programs in computational math accessible for people without an undergrad degree in math?
I majored in linguistics as an undergrad. I've been working as a software engineer and have taken up to linear algebra at the University of Illinois Springfield math program. It's online, though, ...
1
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2answers
87 views
Can anyone explain the method used for finding the answer to this question?
I was practising questions on principles on mathematics. I stumbled onto this question and I don't know where to start. Can anyone please help??
If $P_1\,P_2\,\ldots\,P_n$ is a regular polygon in ...
3
votes
2answers
157 views
Is set theory taught in middle school in the US?
I recently learned that one of my cousins who is a 7th grader in the United States is learning naive set theory (sets, maps, 1-1, onto maps, relations). Is this part of middle school math curricula ...
2
votes
3answers
196 views
Good way to learn Ramsey Theory
What are some good books on Ramsey theory? I have Van Lints book on Combinatorics: is this enough preparation to start reading about Ramsey theory? I want a book that includes important results and ...
7
votes
5answers
436 views
Mathematics, Philosophy and writing.
Do you know of any famous mathematicians who were also philosophers? I have heard of Descartes, Plato and Leibniz. Are there other good examples, especially more modern examples?
Also welcome are ...
5
votes
3answers
138 views
Studying at home and finding good resources in Algebra
I'm a graduate student studying at home. I find that ressources in Mathematics on the web are easier and easier to find, and I am happy for that, because I like to have different points of view about ...
3
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0answers
155 views
Mathematical competitions for adults.
I live in Mexico city. However, I am not so interested in whether these exist in my vicinity but want to learn if they exist, if they do then It might be easier to make them more popular in other ...
1
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3answers
142 views
My brothers share from income.
My brother is driving a limo with his partner who told him that they will go 50-50 on income and also 50-50 on gas.
So if my brother earns \$1000 by spending \$200 on gas, what will be my brothers ...
3
votes
0answers
56 views
Is there a way to determine how many solution does “ The hundred Fowls problems” have looking at the coefficients?
I was looking at the different versions of the hundred fowls problems. I came across the problem posed by Chinese mathematicians posed in 5th century,and then Indians in 9th, 10th centuries. Alcuin of ...
1
vote
1answer
92 views
Riemmans hypothesis and its implications.
Ok so I have heard in all sorts of places that Riemmans hypothesis has very important uses in cryptography. I have heard in many places that if someone solved it he would be able to hack various ...
-3
votes
4answers
93 views
Complete instead of Complex, Irregular instead of Imaginary
Will the terms complex and imaginary ever be replaced? At least within beginning classes?
I imagine it is more of a kind of hazing into the "mathemitician's club" to allow the terms to confuse ...
64
votes
2answers
6k views
Topology: The Board Game
Edit: I've drawn up some different rules, a map and some cards for playing an actual version of the game. They're available at my personal website. Any comments on game play can be incorporated into ...
-8
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1answer
181 views
Mathematics in the Classroom [closed]
Kids. Teens. What do they have in common? They hate math. They have trouble in math. They cannot process key arithmetic and algebraic concepts. For them, MATH IS NOT FUN!
So I ask you, Math Nerds, ...
2
votes
1answer
132 views
Problem Regarding Time Management
I don’t know whether it’s the right place to ask for such a request. I would like to express my apologies in advance if it anyhow goes against the dignity of the forum.
I’m taking preparation for a ...
4
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8answers
435 views
Studying Math, All Over Again
I am 16 and never really paid attention to math. For me it was just one more obstacle in passing the exams.
Now that I study computers, mostly on my own, I find that there is indeed a need for me to ...
3
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0answers
60 views
Niche topics in math useful for physics
I have a somewhat unorthodox question. What are some good niche topics that aren't typically covered in courses in math to self-study? Ideally, I'm looking for something that could ultimately be ...
2
votes
0answers
180 views
What should an undergraduate thesis be about?
I'm very excited to start my undergraduate thesis and I've heard some recommendations for topic but I have a questions and I'd like to hear your opinions.
Should I look for the most advanced topic I ...
13
votes
5answers
376 views
Is the skill to learn new math by reading textbook alone (no lectures) required when one becomes a PhD student?
I've taken a few math classes in college. I'm wondering as one graduates college and applies to become a PhD student in math, is he/she going to be required to learn math related materials alone ...
6
votes
2answers
267 views
Strengthening My Foundation in Mathematics
"For every equation you introduce, you cut your audience in half."
This expression, which I believe came from Stephen Hawking, summarizes why I believe that I have a weak foundation in ...
4
votes
4answers
300 views
What is the best base to use?
When I typed this question in google I found this link: http://octomatics.org/ Just from the graphic point of view: this system seems to be easier (when he explains that you can overlap the line). He ...
3
votes
2answers
45 views
Good Technology Resources for a Pre-Algebra Class?
I am looking for some recommendations for good and interesting technology resources for a pre-algebra class. My main goal is to allow the students to be able to self-pace the instruction, out of ...
2
votes
1answer
157 views
How to improve Maths skills after a physics degree.
A few years ago finished a physics degree and one of the biggest lessons I learned is that I need to spend some extra time on pure Maths. In fact I almost wish I done a maths degree first as that ...
4
votes
4answers
277 views
What are the prerequisites for taking introductory abstract algebra?
I am a maths student in my second year of university. I have taken and done quite well in Calculus I, II, III as well as a linear algebra (application focused) class. I have not worked much with ...
8
votes
3answers
122 views
Links to Online Videos of Good-Quality Lectures by Mathematicians
I am not trying to do anything new here, but I would like to start an activity that has been going on at Math Overflow. Hopefully, people here at the Math StackExchange can also enjoy the good stuff.
...
3
votes
0answers
99 views
Mind Maps for teaching Mathematics
Has anyone used Mind Maps to teach advanced mathematical topics?
If so, how did it work, was it useful or a waste of time?
Thanks for any insights.
Regards -A
0
votes
1answer
81 views
How can I calculate log?
$$
-0.4 \cdot \log(0.4) - 0.3 \cdot \log(0.3) - 0.3 \cdot \log(0.3) = 1.571
$$
The answer is given. How can I calculate the equation for obtaining $1.571$? Please help me understand.
0
votes
1answer
72 views
how can i solve sigmoid function?
$$\frac{1}{ 1-e^ {-(-3.0)}} = -0.052$$
$-0.052$ is the answer. This equation is sigmoid function. How could I get the answer like that? Please understand me T.T
4
votes
3answers
169 views
participation in 1st year introductory pure maths classes
I have just started teaching a very elementary class for 1st year students on introductory pure mathematics. ( classes at my institution are groups up to 20 students and supplement the lectures. The ...
6
votes
2answers
181 views
How are more difficult proofs discovered?
Are there any resources that show how are the various proofs of important theorems in mathematics are invented? I don't understand how can anyone come up with this method for proof for example. I want ...
0
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1answer
148 views
Starting a second degree in math [closed]
I would like you to ask a serious question about my further thoughts in career. I am an fully trained Electronics Engineer from a German "University of Applied Sciences". I hold a so called "Dipl. ...
38
votes
12answers
2k views
How can I introduce complex numbers to precalculus students?
I teach a precalculus course almost every semester, and over these semesters I've found various things that work quite well. For example, when talking about polynomials and rational functions, in ...
5
votes
3answers
87 views
Example for a simple game of chance where the average value converges fast to the expected value
I want to introduce the concept of expected value (for a discrete random variable, finite case) in a high school class. My first idea was to start with a simple game of chance and let the students ...
1
vote
1answer
82 views
Getting Practice on Finding Charts for a Manifold
I just want to ask for a suggestion on the study of differential geometry. When I study it I understand the theorems, their proofs, I understand perfeclty the concepts and so forth, but I'm having ...
1
vote
1answer
83 views
Circular motion “calculate the angle”
I have a equation i need to find out how they hang together.
angel = (velocity * time) - (acceleration * time * time / 2)
I know circumference of a circle:
...
0
votes
1answer
143 views
In which branch of mathematics does “logarithm” belong? Arithmetic or algebra?
I'm currently working on an iOS & Android application for GCE O Level students. I have to classify everything neatly such that Maths never appears to be a messy subject to study and so
should I ...
8
votes
1answer
181 views
Publishing mathematics
How or where does one express work they've done to others?
What does it mean formally to 'publish' mathematical work you've done?
How do you know if your work is any good?
Or if someone has already ...
0
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2answers
76 views
Mathematics or statistics?
Can you please tell me what is ((stochastic modelling and statistical analysis of spatio-temporal data)) related to?
I mean Mathematics or statistics? Is it good subject for student who interested in ...
12
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7answers
676 views
Films about math: a question about math education and motivation for learning math
I'm interested in movies about or related with mathematics or physics, I mean not documentaries which I also consider movies, but artistic or mainstream films about math. Now I have the following in ...
6
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2answers
196 views
Problem understanding math
sorry for my english but I am a foreigner. I'm writing to ask you for help with a problem I have with mathematics. I'm going to go to university physics but I have serious problems as regards ...
