Some Ideas about Mathematical Proof
Bob Brabenec
Department of Mathematics
Wheaton College
The presentation and discussion will be based on two articles.
(1) Essay 9. Proof Techniques in Calculus from the book Resources for the Study of Real Analysis by Robert Brabenec.
(2) "On the Role of Proof in Mathematics" by Joseph Auslander taken from the book Proof and Other Dilemmas edited by Bonnie Gold and Roger A. Simons.
The first article is a collection of specific, practical ideas to help students develop their ability to do and understand proofs, based on examples from a course in real analysis. The second article is a collection of general observations about the role of proof in mathematics, also with a collection of illustrative examples.