History of Mathematics
Cod: 21166
Department: DCET
ECTS: 6
Scientific area: Mathematics
Total working hours: 156
Total contact time: 26

 In this curricular unit we will study from both a historical and a technical point of view a selection of mathematical methods from a set of civilizations and historical periods resumed in the syllabus.
 

History
Mathematics

 The student is expected the develop an understanding both practical and historical of the origins of the mathematics of our time. With regard to each concept the student is required on the one hand, to know both the relevant historical characters and the social and historical context surrounding them, and, on the other hand, to be able to deal with the concept in a practical way, by executing the relevant calculations and proofs according to the methods of the time. In this way the student is expected to develop a better understanding of present mathematical concepts and techniques, by knowing their origin and the various forms they took until reaching their present state.

 
1- The Mathematics of Africa
2- The Mathematics of Egypt
3- The Mathematics of Mesopotamia
4- The Mathematics of China
5- The Mathematics of Greece
6- The Mathematics of Medieval India
7- The Mathematics of the Islamic Civilization
8- The Mathematics of Western Europe from centuries XII to XVI
9- The Origins of Analytic Geometry and the Infinitesimal Calculus
10- The Mathematics of Portugal
 

Mandatory: 
Maria Fernanda Estrada et al.: História da Matemática, Universidade Aberta, 2000 https://repositorioaberto.uab.pt/handle/10400.2/10668
 
Complementary:
1- V.M.Seguí: Aspectos Históricos de las Matemáticas Elementales, Textos Docentes vol 79, Prensas Universitarias de Zaragoza, 2001
2- M. Kline, Mathematical Thought from Ancient to Modern Times, Oxford, University Press, 1972

 

 

E-learning.

Continuous assessment is privileged: 2 digital written documents (e-folios) during the semester (40%) and a final digital test, Global e-folio (e-folio G) at the end of the semester (60%). In due time, students can alternatively choose to perform one final exam (100%).