Fifteenth and sixteenth century arithmetic texts: What can we learn from them?

Abstract

Fifteenth and sixteenth century European arithmetic texts set new standards and procedures for the learning and teaching of mathematics. Commercial problem solving situations both directed and reinforced the mathematical concepts presented. A new dynamic, active problem solving, now became the central feature of mathematics learning and teaching. This article surveys the format and contents of fifteenth and sixteenth century arithmetic books. It discusses the types of problems that were most popular in these early texts and briefly analyzes problem contents. The residual educational influence of fifteenth and sixteenth century arithmetical and instructional practices is noted.