Out of the box thinking through mathematics

IITM Pravartak

"Out of the box thinking through mathematics" is an initiative of IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation hosted by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to nurture young minds.

About Mathematics

Mathematics is not just mechanical calculations of numeracy or mere plugging of borrowed formulas existing for ages. It is a study of facts of numeracy and logic, where logic is interwoven in the study of mathematics. It provides an opportunity to explore self-assessment, data processing, validation, to develop broader thinking by dealing with a variety of problems which lead to multiple solutions. The joy of discovery in this process, helps realize the powerful applications of mathematics in various fields from Anthropology, Archaeology, Astronomy, Biology and so on.

About The Course

Logic being the undercurrent in the study of mathematics, it is essential to develop a broader thinking, through its applications in the expanding world of technology. From solving a fun sudoku puzzle to completing an important scheduled project, the logic of working is much more important than the arithmetic involved in it. This requires creative thinking and a broader perception that is often known as Out of the box thinking. Out of the box thinking is solving problems through an indirect and creative approach, using reasoning that is not immediately obvious, and involving ideas that may not be obtainable by using only traditional step-by-step logic. In this unique course, such thinking is emphasized through rediscovering the known and unknown facts of mathematics logically, with an interesting broader perception of the manner of doing it.

For Whom

These courses are easily accessible from your school children to professionals and researchers. The four graded independent levels of the courses present multiple approaches to problem solving, debunking the myth that problem solving is for the elite. It introduces new techniques in a easy to understand fashion; prepare the users to face real life projects with confidence and ease.

Pre-requisite

Familiarity with basic concepts and ready mind set for learning non-routine problem-solving skills.

Levels

Topics in Level 1 - Out Of The Box Thinking

1. Puzzles Math
2. Calendar Math
3. Odd and Even
4. Tuning Technique
5. Number Trip Game
6. Doing and Undoing
7. Visual Maths
8. Who am I?
9. Divisibility Blocks
10. Missing Digits
11. Follow the Sequence!
12. Mask Math
13. Cow Grass Theory

Eligibility

School class 5 and above

Outcomes

• Concentration
• Topic-specific knowledge
• Problem solving skills
• Memory
• Enhancement of self-esteem

Topics in Level 2 - Out Of The Box Thinking

1. Passenger and Compartment
2. Soccer Score Table
3. Frog Jumping Theory
4. Basic Counting
5. Story Math
6. Tabulation with Proper Header
7. Cows and Bulls
8. Dissection of Polygons
9. Sports Algebra
10. Post Box Algebra
11. Basic Geometry
12. Ruled Note-Book and Percentage
13. Area and Perimeter

Eligibility

School class 7 and above

Outcome

• Logical skill development

Courses

Course Brief

• 3 months courses
• 10 weeks for each level
• 20 hours of recorded video sessions
• 2 hours per week

Process

Apart from recorded lecture sessions, each level provides periodic assignments, evaluation, assessment and answers.

Registration

• Course is free online.
• Course registration will be open in the months of April / November every year for the June and January sessions, respectively.
• Registered students should take up assignments online.

Final Exam

• Final exam carries a nominal fee.
• Final Exam is a proctored one conducted at centres in select cities across India.

Grade Certificate

Grade Certificate, based on evaluation of final exam, will be issued by IITM Pravartak.

• Grade A - 85% and above
• Grade B - 70% to less than 85%
• Grade C - 55% to less than 70%
• Grade D - 40% to less than 55%

Source: www.pravartak.org.in