Maths and games
Games and mathematics are intimately linked. By solving problems or imagining theories, are we not playing? Conversely, the various strategies developed by a player and the algorithms for solving situations in board games gave rise to a field of mathematics, game theory. We then understand why games can... "play" a role in school and make education fun. What if every math problem took the form of a game? Puzzles and other recreational pastimes have long been popular with readers, in the press as well as in publishing. Eminent mathematicians have even posed challenges at the boundary between pure play and mathematical problems. Doing math through play means reconciling the useful and the pleasant, it means improving life in society. It is not surprising that the theme of Maths Week 2019 is "Playing together with mathematics".
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Playing games in mathematics class
Games can play an important role in school mathematics. What if every problem took the form of a game? Here is how, in just a few playful steps, to move beyond the confines of a high-school curriculum.
Mathematics lends itself to play
Play does not seem more closely linked to one discipline than another. Yet mathematics and play enjoy a special relationship. Mathematics lends itself remarkably well to play, and play returns the favour.
Tabletop games, games in society
Board games, solitaire games, tabletop games, games of chance, video games, traditional games… There is something for everyone, whatever their tastes! As cultural products, games reflect the societies that produce them. But they can also help us develop our mental abilities.
In the press too…
Mathematical games, familiar from the scientific press, are few and far between in the mainstream press. Some newspapers have nevertheless taken the plunge, often with success! There is indeed an audience for recreational mathematics—provided it is not schoolwork in disguise.
Bernard Novelli, master of logic puzzles | Tangente
No Tangente feature on mathematical games would be complete without acknowledging the role Bernard Novelli played on our magazine's team (see Tangente 141, 2011)