"Let P(n) be a statement for every positive integer n. We denote the set of all positive integers by N and consider G = {n [is an element of] N [such that] P(n) is true}. The principle of mathematical induction can now be stated as follows: If [(i) 1 [is an element of] G and, (ii) for all k [is an element of] N if k [is an element of] G, then k + 1 [is an element of] G], then G = N. Now symbolize this statement as follows: P: 1 [is an element of] G. R: k [is an element of] G. S: k + 1 [is an element of] G. Q: G = N. Therefore the statement of the principle of mathematical induction can be seen in the following form. If [P and, [for all] k [is an element of] N (if R, then S)], then Q. One strategy for teaching this principle is to explain that in order to apply the principle of mathematical induction and assert Q, one must appeal to the logical rule of modus ponens (the law of detachment). That is, we must affirm the antecedent [P and, [for all] k [is an element of] N (if R, then S)], and then we can assert Q. Therefore the research hypothesis for this study was that if people have the prerequisite knowledge of logic, and that if they are taught the principle of mathematical induction in terms of logic, then they will perform better on a criterion test over the principle of mathematical induction than people who are not taught in terms of logic"--Introduction. / Typescript. / "June, 1972." / "Submitted to the Department of Mathematics Education in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Education in Mathematics Education." / Advisor: E. D. Nichols, Professor Directing Dissertation. / Includes bibliographical references.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:fsu.edu/oai:fsu.digital.flvc.org:fsu_291465 |
| Contributors | Walter, Robert Lee, 1932- (authoraut), Nichols, Eugene Douglas, 1923- (professor directing dissertation), Florida State University (degree granting institution) |
| Publisher | Florida State University |
| Source Sets | Florida State University |
| Language | English, English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text, text |
| Format | 1 online resource (x, 183 leaves), computer, application/pdf |
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