This book provides an engaging collection of classroom projects which promote active-learning opportunities for high school and university students. Each of the nine labs is connected to a real-world problem and is designed to facilitate group work. The topics covered are varied, ranging from origami and geographic maps to the shape of bridges and algorithms used on internet searches. Each module begins with a brief account of the underlying mathematics as well as an outline of the activity. A detailed description of the lab is then provided, as well as helpful educational considerations which add further information and context to the activity. As they participate in the modules, students are introduced to mathematical concepts from areas such as elementary logic, calculus, linear algebra, and geometry. The material is versatile enough that it can be adapted to different groups of students, depending on their backgrounds. The experimental, hands-on nature of the activities makes them suitable not just for mathematics students, but also those majoring in subjects such as physics and engineering. Though each lab is designed to be standalone, this volume could also be used as the basis of a course in experimental mathematics.
M. L. Spreafico and F. Ceragioli, Reflecting on mathematical language
through paper folding
M. Abrate, Logarithmic scales and the slide rule
L. Lussardi, Minimum and maximum problems in nature
F. Ceragioli, A. Falocchi, and F. Marcon, Bridges and derivatives
L. Damonte and L. Massai, Matrix, at the core of the web
M. Morandotti, Billiards, dynamical systems, and fractals
M. Abrate and M. L. Spreafico, Plane curves and how to trace them
M. L. Spreafico and F. Ceragioli, A quick look at surfaces
A. Boralevi, Math & maps: The role of mathematics in drawing and coloring
maps
Index
Marco Abrate, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy, Francesca Ceragioli, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy.
Marco Morandotti, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
Maria Luisa Spreafico, University of Milan, Italy.
