On Tue, Feb 12, 2008 at 05:03:45PM -0800, Andrew Lentvorski wrote:
> >It is up to the math instructor to impart an algorithm that imparts
> >understanding and is more than just a lookup table.  Yes there are
> >algorithms that would give the right answer w/o imparting understanding.
>
> Well, that kinda refutes your original position that programming imparts
> understanding about the subject.

I didn't mean all or any algorithm.  I'm wondering if you know what I'm trying
to say even though I may not be saying it in the best way.

> The only advantage that programming has is the same advantage that
> teaching another person has.  You have to break the problem down into
> simpler steps.  Teaching the other person has the advantage in that
> occasionally you get asked the question: "Why?"  At that point, you may
> have to think a bit.

Yes, live teachers are great but they can't follow us around everywhere so we
have books.  Now let's write a book....how do you propose to most concisely
break it down into smaller parts as you say?   I'm saying software may be a
useful part of that treeware.

Check this out...

http://mitpress.mit.edu/catalog/item/default.asp?ttype=2&tid=4048

cs

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