Maths laboratory in Chennai.
Posted on: 05/Jun/2010 3:24:57 AM
New Mathematics Laboratory is set to be opened by the Science City in Ramanujam Gallery , Chennai by the end of August. This is a part of Governments initiative to inspire students and facilitate them in their quest for understanding Mathematics better This facility is estimated to cost around Rs 70 Lakhs.
“This would enable students to learn by exploring mathematical concepts and verify facts and theorems. The works of Rumanian would also be on display at the gallery. Students would be able to understand his contribution to mathematics , Said P. Iyamperumal, vice-chairman of Science City.
The conversion of two-dimensional objects to three dimension, demonstration of Euclidean geometry, model of Pythagoras theorem, pi pavilion, e pavilion and conic section would be some of the attractions. Initially, over 50 tools and pieces of equipment would be part of the laboratory. Later, it would be increased.
Other exhibits include the express route, elliptical table, musical tubes, illusions, sympathetic swings, find your age, and find your height, transfer of momentum, cone runs uphill, probability curve and a quiz corner. The laboratory would also have provisions for explanation to understand concepts such as magic square.
“Most of the students are not able to understand simple concepts. This facility will help them understand mathematical concepts such as eccentricity of an ellipse with the help of tools made available here ” said R. Srinivasan, the scientific officer in charge of the laboratory. For example, the child understands the basic concepts of trigonometry using the ‘know your height` exhibit. He or she gains understanding of binary decimals by playing with the exhibit of ‘find your age.’ The lab would have exhibits on ancient numerals, place value in ancient India, geometry in Indian Art, symmetry, timeline in mathematics development and probability concepts. The students would internalize and verify the basic mathematical concepts through tangible objects and situations, Mr. Srinivasan added.
The mobile unit with 24 display materials would cover remote parts of the State and create awareness and enthusiasm among teachers and students. All the districts in the State would be covered in three years. This would build interest among rural students learning the subject and encourage them to think.
The concrete objects, charts, models, graphs, posters and pictures would explain and reinforce abstract mathematical ideas by relating mathematical concepts with everyday life, Mr. Srinivasan said.
