IN-PERSON: The Elderwise classroom at the Vineyard Church
All cultures, past and present, have used mathematics to make sense of and organize their lives. In this course we will explore some of the ways that different cultures have used mathematics for counting, trading, keeping track of time, and scheduling religious practices. We will look at ancient counting systems (Egyptian, Babylonian, Mayan), as well as the adoption of Hindu Arabic numbers. The interactive sessions of this course do not require expertise in mathematics, but should interest those who are curious about the beliefs and lifestyles of other cultures. Prepare for a fun course with lots of hands-on activities. Joan C. Jones is Professor Emeritus of Mathematics from Eastern Michigan University, where she taught math for teachers. Her interests include the history of mathematics, especially how different cultures have used mathematical ideas, both formally and informally, throughout history.
