Numerical Mathematics – A Laboratory Approach is a unique book that introduces the computational microcomputer laboratory as a vehicle for teaching algorithmic aspects of mathematics. This is achieved through a sequence of laboratory assignments, presupposing no previous knowledge of calculus or linear algebra, where the “chalk and talk” lecturer turns into a laboratory instructor. The computational assignments cover basic numerical topics that should be part of the mathematical education in the era of microcomputers.

In writing this book at the precalculus and pre–linear algebra level, we were mainly addressing an audience of four groups: first-year university students of mathematics, sciences, and engineering who have had no exposure to systematic calculus; students at teachers' training colleges who will be tomorrow's teachers of mathematics and computer science; superior high-school mathematics students; and scientific programmers at all levels. Various parts of this book were successfully tested on classes representative of each of these groups and subsequently modified. The material was received enthusiastically by high-school students who were members of Tel Aviv University's Math Club, some of whom are now faculty members of the School of Mathematical Sciences. The material was also welcomed by members of New York University's summer program for talented high-school students (held every summer at the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences and directed by Henry Mullish), and by several classes of in-service or future mathematics teachers at Tel Aviv University and at New York University.