Welcome to the first module of GE 1 (Mathematics in the Modern World)! This course begins with an introduction to the nature of mathematics as an exploration of unseen patterns in nature and environment, a rich language in itself governed by logic and reasoning, and an application of inductive and deductive reasoning.
Chapter 1 is composed of the following: 1.1 Mathematics in our World; 1.2 Mathematics Language and Symbols; and 1.3 Problem Solving and Reasoning. These topics will allow students to go beyond the typical understanding of mathematics as purely a bunch of memorized formulas and duplicated mathematical computations, but as a powerful tool used to understand better the world around us. Moreover, we will discuss and argue about the nature of mathematics, what it is, and how it is expressed, represented, and used. We will study mathematics as a language in order to read and write mathematical texts and communicate ideas with precision and conciseness. We will also justify statements and arguments made about mathematics and mathematical concepts using different methods of reasoning.
Mathematics has always been perceived as a study of numbers, symbols, and rules. It is an art of geometric shapes and patterns, a tool in decision-making and problem solving. It has a language that differs from the ordinary speech. It is done with curiosity, with a penchant for seeking patterns and generalities, with the desire to know the truth, with trial and error, and without the fear of facing more questions and problems to solve. The following diagram shows the very nature of mathematics.
In this module, we will focus on Lesson 1.1 - Mathematics in our World (A Study of Patterns). The lesson is anchored by the following core idea: Mathematics is a useful way to think about nature and the world. Our intention is to observe things, in both in nature and the world, through pattern-seeking, understand the substantial interconnection and relationship of the mathematics and the world, and appreciate mathematics as a discipline full of essence and beauty
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