How to Teach Mathematics: A Personal Perspective

Abstract

`[A] professor will sometimes prepare for a lecture not by writing some notes or browsing through the book but by lounging in the coffee room with his colleagues and bemoaning (a) the shortcomings of the students, (b) the shortcomings of the text, and (c) that professors are overqualified to teach calculus. Fortified by this yoga, the professor will then proceed to his class and give a lecture ranging from dreary to arrogant to boring to calamitous...The good news is that it requires no more effort, no more preparation, and no more time to be a good teacher than to be a bad teacher. The proof is in this booklet.' ---from the Preface Lively and humorous, yet serious and sensible, this book is a practical guide to the teaching of mathematics. Eschewing generalities, Krantz emphasizes specifics---from how to deal with students who beg for extra points on an exam to mastering blackboard technique to how to use applications effectively. In addition, the book also deals with such sensitive subjects as cheating, bribery, and sexual harassment. Those teaching collegiate mathematics for the first time will find Krantz's advice especially helpful, and more experienced instructors will appreciate the book's elucidation of the fine points of excellent teaching. This book is intended for graduate students preparing for a career in college teaching of mathematics, mathematics instructors and professors.