About this course: Learn how to think the way mathematicians do – a powerful cognitive process developed over thousands of years. Mathematical thinking is not the same as doing mathematics – at least not as mathematics is typically presented in our school system. School math typically focuses on learning procedures to solve highly stereotyped problems. Professional mathematicians think a certain way to solve real problems, problems that can arise from the everyday world, or from science, or from within mathematics itself. The key to success in school math is to learn to think inside-the-box. In contrast, a key feature of mathematical thinking is thinking outside-the-box – a valuable ability in today’s world. This course helps to develop that crucial way of thinking.
Who is this class for: This ten-week course is designed with two particular audiences in mind. First, people who want to develop or improve mathematics-based, analytic thinking for professional or general life purposes. Second, high school seniors contemplating a mathematics or math-related major at college or university, or first-year students at college or university who are thinking of majoring in mathematics or a math-dependent subject. To achieves this aim, the first part of the course has very little traditional mathematical content, focusing instead on the thinking processes required for mathematics. The more mathematical examples are delayed until later, when they are more readily assimilated.
Taught by: Dr. Keith Devlin, Co-founder and Executive Director
H-STAR institute
| Level | Intermediate |
| Commitment | Expect to require at least 10 hours of study per week to complete this course satisfactorily. |
| Language | English |
| How To Pass | Pass all graded assignments to complete the course. |
| User Ratings |
Each course is like an interactive textbook, featuring pre-recorded videos, quizzes and projects.
Connect with thousands of other learners and debate ideas, discuss course material, and get help mastering concepts.
Earn official recognition for your work, and share your success with friends, colleagues, and employers.
I am not familiar with the material and consider this course as a baby step into a completely new language, a journey in a world of thinking that shows our education system fails to inform and develop logic and rational thinking at the basic levels. At 67, I should have the basic knowledge to complete this course with ease. It reflects on the substance, or lack thereof, of the education system and the quality of teachers. Given the time, the effort and the patience of good teachers, every reasonable thinking person ought to be able to manage these basic skills. Thank you, Professor, for sharing your knowledge, it has been a great discovery for which I am immensely grateful.
From my understanding so far; it's a good course that lets you quantify your basic logical thinking ability and understand your work areas if you're looking at understanding the beautiful world of mathematics.Happy Learning
Very inspiring and educational course. Keith Devlin is a very good professor. Very nice assignments. Fun and challenging to do!
Coursera provides universal access to the world’s best education, partnering with top universities and organizations to offer courses online.
One of the best courses i have taken on this site