• Communications of Mathematical Education
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• v.20 no.4 s.28
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• pp.587-594
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• 2006

In this paper we introduce a method of factorizing multi-variable polynomials using Viete's theorem and show some examples of factorizing multi-variable polynomials. We also discuss some aspects of this method.

• Journal of Educational Research in Mathematics
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• v.18 no.1
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• pp.51-62
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• 2008

In the 7th-curriculum, only basic arithmetics of complex numbers have been taught. They are taught formally like literal manipulations. This paper analyzes mathematically essential relations between algebra of complex numbers and plane geometry. Historical analysis is also performed to find effective methods of teaching complex numbers in school mathematics. As a result, we can integrates this analysis with school mathematics by help of Viete's operations on right triangles. We conclude that teaching geometric interpretation of complex numbers is possible in school mathematics.

• Journal for History of Mathematics
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• v.26 no.5_6
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• pp.355-370
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• 2013

Thomas Harriot has been introduced in middle school textbooks as a great mathematician who created the sign of inequality. This study is about Harriot's symbolism and the theory of equation. Harriot made symbols of mathematical concepts and operations and used the algebraic visual representation which were combinations of symbols. He also stated solving equations in numbers, canonical, and by reduction. His epoch-making inventions of algebraic equation using notation of operation and letters are similar to recent mathematical representation. This study which reveals Harriot's contribution to general and structural approach of mathematical solution shows many developments of algebra in 16th and 17th centuries from Viete to Harriot and from Harriot to Descartes.

• Journal for History of Mathematics
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• v.15 no.2
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• pp.49-68
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• 2002

One of the characteristics of modem mathematics is to use algebra in every fields of mathematics. But we don't have the exact definition of algebra, and we can't clearly define algebraic thinking. In order to solve this problem, this paper investigate the history of algebra. First, we describe some of the features of proportional Babylonian thinking by analysing some problems. In chapter 4, we consider Greek's analytical method and proportional theory. And in chapter 5, we deal with Diophantus' algebraic method by giving an overview of Arithmetica. Finally we investigate Viete's thinking of algebra through his ‘the analytical art’. By investigating these history of algebra, we reach the following conclusions. 1. The origin of algebra comes from problem solving(various equations). 2. The origin of algebraic thinking is the proportional thinking and the analytical thinking. 3. The thing that plays an important role in transition from arithmetical thinking to algebraic thinking is Babylonian ‘the false value’ idea and Diophantus’ ‘arithmos’ concept.

• Journal for History of Mathematics
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• v.25 no.1
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• pp.15-27
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• 2012

Thomas Harriot(1560-1621) introduced a simplified notation for algebra. His fundamental research on the theory of equations was far ahead of that time. He invented certain symbols which are used today. Harriot treated all answers to solve equations equally whether positive or negative, real or imaginary. He did outstanding work on the solution of equations, recognizing negative roots and complex roots in a way that makes his solutions look like a present day solution. Since he published no mathematical work in his lifetime, his achievements were not recognized in mathematical history and mathematics education. In this paper, by comparing his works with Viete and Descartes those are mathematicians in the same age, I show his achievements in mathematics.