ICMI Studies

This book presents the papers arising from the ICMI study seminar on the popularization of mathematics held at the University of Leeds, UK, 17–22 September 1989. The event was organized in conjunction with a highly successful touring exhibition known as the 'Pop Maths Roadshow'. Inspired by the discussion document prepared by Howson, Kahane and Pollak, the symposium consisted of three plenary sessions discussing the problems faced in the popularization through particular media. Members were present from a variety of backgrounds and discussion groups were devoted to specific themes, such as the image of mathematicians, TV and films, and mathematics in different cultures.

This book, which was first published in 1990, is aimed at teachers, mathematics educators and general readers who are interested in mathematics education from a psychological point of view. The book describes research findings that shed light on the learning of mathematics from early arithmetic to high levels of algebra and geometry. The book is the collaborative effort of a number of members of the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education and primarily describes their work whilst at the same time covering many issues that interest researchers in mathematics education.

Based on the International Commission on Mathematical Instruction conference held in early 1987, this volume consists of a number of key papers presented by international authorities on the role of mathematics in applied subjects, such as engineering, computer science, and mathematical modelling. The importance of certain mathematical ideas, such as geometry and discrete mathematics is stressed, as well as the more classical methods. The book includes a long article by the editor synthesising some of the main themes and trends debated at the conference.

This 1987 study seeks to identify key issues and basic questions within mathematics education, to propose and comment upon alternative strategies, and to provide a stimulus for more detailed, less general discussions, within more limited geographical and social contexts. The text is based upon an international symposium held in Kuwait in February, 1986 and attended by selected mathematics educators drawn from all parts of the world.

First published in 1986, the first ICMI study is concerned with the influence of computers and computer science on mathematics and its teaching in the last years of school and at tertiary level. In particular, it explores the way the computer has influenced mathematics itself and the way in which mathematicians work, likely influences on the curriculum of high-school and undergraduate students, and the way in which the computer can be used to improve mathematics teaching and learning. The book comprises a report of the meeting held in Strasbourg in March 1985, plus several papers contributed to that meeting.

Essays explore the world of Michael of Rhodes, examining the historical context, thediscovery of his manuscript, and Michael's knowledge of mathematics, shipbuilding, navigation, andother topics.