• Journal for History of Mathematics
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• v.36 no.2
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• pp.21-34
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• 2023

Spherical trigonometry refers to the geometry related to spherical triangles. It has been an important tool for studying astronomy since ancient times. In trigonometry, concepts such as trigonometric functions naturally emerge from the relationship between arcs and chords of a circle. In this paper, we briefly examine the origin of spherical trigonometry. To introduce the basics of spherical trigonometry, we present fundamental and important theorems such as Menelaus's theorem, the law of sines and the law of cosines on a sphere, along with their proofs. Furthermore, we discuss the educational value and potential applications of spherical trigonometry.

• Journal of Educational Research in Mathematics
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• v.15 no.2
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• pp.131-145
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• 2005

This study intends to analyze didactically on triangle-determining conditions and triangle-congruence conditions. The result of this study revealed the followings: Firstly, many pre-service mathematics teachers and secondary school students have insufficient understanding or misunderstanding on triangle-determining conditions and triangle-congruence conditions. Secondly, the term segment instead of edge may show well the concern of triangle-determining conditions. Thirdly, when students learn the method of finding six elements of triangle using the law of sines and cosines in high school, they should be given the opportunity to reflect the relation and the difference between triangle-determining situation and the situation of finding six elements of triangle. Fourthly, accepting some conditions like SSA-obtuse as a triangle-determining condition or not is not just a logical problem. It depends on the specific contexts investigating triangle-determining conditions. Fifthly, textbooks and classroom teaching need to guide students to discover triangle-deter-mining conditions in the process of inquiry from SSS, SSA, SAS, SAA, ASS, ASA, AAS, AAA to SSS, SAS, ASA, SAA. Sixthly, it is necessary to have students know the significance of 'correspondence' in congruence conditions. Finally, there are some problems of using the term 'correspondent' in describing triangle-congruence conditions.