Objectives
Specific objectives of the course are:
- (a) to give an understanding of important mathematical ideas such as variable, function, limit, etc, and to introduce students to mathematical techniques which are relevant to the real world;
- (b) to understand the need to prove results, to appreciate the role of deductive reasoning in establishing such proofs, and to develop the ability to construct these proofs;
- (c) to enhance those mathematical skills required for further studies in mathematics, the physical sciences and the technological sciences.
- (i) Understanding of the basic ideas and precise use of language must be emphasised;
- (ii) A clear distinction must be made between results which are proved, and results which are merely stated or made plausible;
- (iii) Where proofs are given, they should be carefully developed, with emphasis on the deductive processes used;
- (iv) Attaining competence in mathematical skills and techniques requires many examples, given as teaching illustrations and as exercises to be undertaken independently by the student;
- (v) Since the course is to be ‘useful for concurrent studies of science, industrial arts and commerce’ students could be given some experience in applying mathematics to problems drawn from such areas. Realistic problems should follow the attainment of skills, and techniques of problem solving should be continually developed.