Teaching Discrete Mathematics via Original Historical Sources

一个由数学家和计算机科学家组成的团队正在开发基于原始历史资料的课程材料，用于离散数学的初级到高级本科课程，这些课程今天吸引了大量计算机科学专业的学生。历史模块提供从原始源材料摘录，与一系列学生练习一起，旨在阐明源中引入的开创性思想。试点测试也在不同的机构中进行，包括哥伦比亚特区大学、北肯塔基大学、宾夕法尼亚印第安纳大学、南科罗拉多大学和美国军事学院。随着项目的进展，其他机构也在增加。此外，该项目还为新墨西哥州立大学的研究生提供了进行学徒教学的机会，这也会对材料产生额外的反馈。历史方法的特殊优势包括为主题提供背景和方向，通过阅读原创作品磨练学生的语言和演绎技能，以及重新发现离散数学和计算机科学共同的概念根源。

A team of mathematicians and computer scientists is developing curricular materials, based on original historical sources, for beginning to advanced undergraduate courses in discrete mathematics, courses which today draw a significant number of computer science majors. The historical modules offer excerpts from original source material, together with a sequence of student exercises designed to illuminate the groundbreaking ideas introduced in the source. Pilot testing is also underway at a diverse set of institutions, including the University of the District of Columbia, Northern Kentucky University, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, the University of Southern Colorado, and the United States Military Academy. Other institutions are being added as the project progresses. In addition, the project provides graduate students at New Mexico State University an opportunity to perform apprentice teaching, which also generates additional feedback on the materials. Particular advantages of the historical approach include providing context and direction for the subject matter, honing students' verbal and deductive skills through reading original works, and the rediscovery of conceptual roots common to both discrete mathematics and computer science.