Teaching group theory using Rubik's cubes

CORNOCK, Claire (2015). Teaching group theory using Rubik's cubes. International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology, 46 (7), 957-967.

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Official URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/002073...
Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1080/0020739X.2015.1070442

Abstract

Being situated within a course at the applied end of the spectrum of maths degrees, the pure mathematics modules at Sheffield Hallam University have an applied spin. Pure topics are taught through consideration of practical examples such as knots, cryptography and automata. Rubik's cubes are used to teach group theory within a final year pure elective based on physical examples. Abstract concepts, such as subgroups, homomorphisms and equivalence relations are explored with the cubes first. In addition to this, conclusions about the cubes can be made through the consideration of algebraic approaches through a process of discovery. The teaching, learning and assessment methods are explored in this paper, along with the challenges and limitations of the methods. The physical use of Rubik's cubes within the classroom and examination will be presented, along with the use of peer support groups in this process. The students generally respond positively to the teaching methods and the use of the cubes.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: Special issue : Elephant Delta 2015: The Tenth Southern Hemisphere Conference on the Teaching and Learning of Undergraduate Mathematics and Statistics, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, 22-27 November 2015
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018: Cultural Communication and Computing Research Institute > Communication and Computing Research Centre
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1080/0020739X.2015.1070442
Page Range: 957-967
Depositing User: Carmel House
Date Deposited: 06 Oct 2016 11:12
Last Modified: 18 Mar 2021 02:21
URI: https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/13388

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