Mathematical Perspectives (8104.4)
Please note these are the 2025 details for this unit
| Available teaching periods | Delivery mode | Location |
|---|---|---|
| View teaching periods | Flexible |
Bruce, Canberra |
| EFTSL | Credit points | Faculty |
| 0.125 | 3 | Faculty Of Science And Technology |
| Discipline | Study level | HECS Bands |
| Academic Program Area - Technology | Level 3 - Undergraduate Advanced Unit | Band 1 2021 (Commenced After 1 Jan 2021) Band 1 2021 (Commenced Before 1 Jan 2021) |
This unit considers the historical and cultural context of mathematics. The unit will include a broad introduction to the history of mathematics from prehistoric times to the 21st century. Students will complete a guided research project into a particular area of their own interest. Lecture topics will be chosen from Euclidean geometry, solving polynomial equations, perspective and projective geometry, the development of calculus, early probability and statistics, non-Euclidean geometry, mathematical foundations, logic, infinity, and computational mathematics. The unit is suitable for anyone with an interest in the history of ideas, but emphasises the importance of context in mathematics education.
1. Synthesise perspectives on Mathematics both as a cultural phenomenon and an enabling discipline for research/real world problems;
2. Conceptualise Mathematics as an element of knowledge systems, the history of ideas, and as a human enterprise; and
3. Evaluate and report on the scholarship of Mathematics, both historically and contemporarily.
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:1. Synthesise perspectives on Mathematics both as a cultural phenomenon and an enabling discipline for research/real world problems;
2. Conceptualise Mathematics as an element of knowledge systems, the history of ideas, and as a human enterprise; and
3. Evaluate and report on the scholarship of Mathematics, both historically and contemporarily.
Graduate attributes
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas
Prerequisites
12123 Mathematical Modelling with Calculus AND 8110 Linear AlgebraCorequisites
None.Incompatible units
None.Equivalent units
None.Assumed knowledge
None.
Availability for enrolment in 2025 is subject to change and may not be confirmed until closer to the teaching start date.
| Year | Location | Teaching period | Teaching start date | Delivery mode | Unit convener |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Bruce, Canberra | Semester 2 | 29 July 2024 | Flexible | Dr Sergey Sergeev |
| 2025 | Bruce, Canberra | Semester 2 | 28 July 2025 | Flexible | Dr Sergey Sergeev |
The information provided should be used as a guide only. Timetables may not be finalised until week 2 of the teaching period and are subject to change. Search for the unit
timetable.
Required texts
Required text: Victor J Katz, "A history of mathematics, An introduction", Third Edition, Pearson ISBN 9780134689524
https://books.google.com.au/books/about/Mathematics_and_Its_History.html?id=WNjRrqTm62QC&redir_esc=y
Learner engagement
| Activities | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lectures (2 hours/week; 11 times) |
22 |
| Workshops (2 hours/week; 12 times) |
24 |
| Weekly study (2 hours/week; 12 times) |
24 |
| in class tests preparation |
30 |
| Assignment/Presentation |
50 |
| Total hours |
150 |
Participation requirements
It is expected that students will attend all lectures and tutorials.
Required IT skills
The students should be able to access the unit website and email.
In-unit costs
See recommended text section.
Work placement, internships or practicums
None
