The current course, though primarily intended for prospective elementary and middle school teachers, is open to all students interested in studying mathematics through discovery. All the topics covered will be looked at using a historical perspective. We will begin with numbers and number sense in prehistoric times, continue on through the various numeration systems and work our way up into the Greek period, exploring mathematics the way the Greeks explored some of the above listed topics.
Emphasis is placed on exploration.
Each of the topics will be studied in a 'hands-on' fashion, with the use of various manipulatives. This course will primarily involve daily classroom activities as well as activity-based homework assignments. There will be at least two 1-2 page papers required, routine reading from a variety of sources and an assortment of projects. One main project will involve creating a web site for this course, which will be done by the students in the course. In addition, students will take part in preparing activities for the other students in the class.