Did you experience math trauma in school? Or maybe you were just mystified by “What’s this all about?” If so, this is the chance to see a different, enjoyable side of math. First, we’ll acknowledge that math can be traumatic and listen to what the current president of Dartmouth and others have to say about how math can be perceived and presented darkly. But then, we’ll move on to discovering the realms of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and even calculus, while inventing some it yourself. We’ll draw pictures, solve puzzles, create origami, play games, do magic, and handle manipulatives. Class size will be limited, so be prepared to participate, interact, and explore. Along the way we’ll pause to learn about the historic figures who first moved into math’s terra incognita. There were some pretty interesting men and women. Finally, we’ll sample some of the online and other resources that can take you further. This is your chance to frame math in a positive light for yourself, your kids, and grandkids. And maybe even help your kids with their homework!

This course will combine lecture with class discussions.