Course description:
In this course, you will learn about a unique “Hungarian style” method of discovery learning in mathematics, developed for students aged 12-18. The method is similar to inquiry based learning and is fondly called by many Hungarian mathematicians as the “Pósa method,” named after its developer Lajos Pósa.
This method, which arose out of a long tradition of mathematics education in Hungary, has been implemented in more than 300 weekend and summer mathematics camps for talented students since 1988 (e.g., the MaMuT camps), as well as in mainstream high school classrooms. (Its long term effects include the success of Hungarian students in various International Mathematical Olympiads.) While the Pósa method was originally developed for gifted students, there are many aspects of the method that can be useful for all students.
You will have the opportunity of experiencing mathematics as a student of the Pósa method by playing the role of participants in the math camps. The classes will be very similar to a problem solving seminar done in the style of the Pósa method. The choice of mathematical areas we study will depend on students’ preference and background. Special emphasis will be placed on pursuing paths generated by students’ questions.