Exploring mathematics with image processing

Abstract

Thanks to the ubiquity of powerful personal computers with high quality displays mathematics is being taught with a variety of exciting new visual approaches. One of these has particular interest in educating students of ages 12-20 where there is often a loss of interest in mathematics. Digital images are simultaneously visual and mathematical objects, and provide a natural vehicle for exploring arithmetic, number systems, functions, geometry, statistics and programming. A novel interactive learning environment is presented which supports a diverse group of student exercises, explorations and projects. This environment has been used on an experimental basis by a number of students in the Seattle area.