The Mutual Role of Mathematics and Culture

Document Type : Review Paper

Authors

1 Master of Arts in Mathematics Education and Teacher of Kerman Math House

2 Faculty of Mathematics and Computer & Mahani Mathematical Research Centre & Department of Mathematics Education- Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman

Abstract

Review of historical monuments such as ancestral handicrafts, the investigation into the life of physicians, astronomers, agriculturists, architects, physicists and mathematics and so on, attest to the development of knowledge in the ancient Iran. Such knowledge can be observed in the ancient and authentic Iranian art namely Iranian carpet. Such textures which have developed Iran’s academic standing by integrating principles of art with mathematics in order to promote Iranian standing in both art and mathematics. Therefore, we decided to elaborate the role of our ancient culture which had a pre-eminent position in mathematics, in the area of science. So one of the effects of mathematics, art and culture was chosen to smooth the way for teaching mathematics to students by weave the mathematics into it. This delicacy can develop the promotion and popularization of mathematics as the overall aims of education. This view can help students to see mathematics as a different form of knowledge which will be oppose to common view in society which consider math as difficult and complicated knowledge. The results of several research show that the ways which our ancestors used math in their daily life activities are very interesting and even unique despite of having no formal academic education. So, in addition to creating interest and motivation in students, introducing such activities can have a significant impact on teaching and learning process.

Keywords

References

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Popularization of Science
Volume 7, Issue 1 - Serial Number 10
September 2015
Pages 7-21

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