How to Introduce the Cyclic Group and Its Properties Representation with Matlab ? Thanks to Magic Using the Perfect Faro Shuffle

Pierre Schott

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DOI: 10.4236/ce.2011.21005                

Abstract

Why use Magic for teaching arithmetic and geometric suit, additive groups, and algorithmic notions through Matlab? Magicians know that, once the surprise has worn off, the audience will seek to understand how the trick works. The aim of every teacher is to interest their students, and a magic trick will lead them to ask how? And why? And how can I create one myself? In this article we consider a project I presented in 2009. I summarize the project scope, the students' theoretical studies, their approach to this problem and their computer realizations. I conclude using the mathematical complement as well as weak and strong points of this approach. Whatever the student's professional ambitions, they will be able to see the impact that originality and creativity have when combined with an interest in one's work. The students know how to “perform” a magic trick for their family and friends, a trick that they will be able to explain and so enjoy a certain amount of success. Sharing a mathematical / informatics demonstration is not easy and that they do so means that they will have worked on understood and are capable of explaining this knowledge. Isn't this the aim of all teaching?

Keywords

Higher Education, Engineer, Educational Method

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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