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The Purpose of Proof

Published: 06 March 2023 Publication History

Abstract

Mathematics is often considered the foundation of computer science, with rigorous, mathematical reasoning, i.e., proof, at the heart of this foundation. Mathematical proof is the backbone of virtually all introductory mathematics courses within any computer science major. However, the degree to which rigorous reasoning is required of students in subsequent courses is highly variable across institutions. At some institutions, proof is a tool used to deepen material, whereas, at other places, proof is set aside in favor of increased topic coverage. Consequently, many students do not see the purpose of proof in computing. Furthermore, the demands of rigorous mathematical reasoning dissuade many students from continuing in the field.
As we reflect on our educational practices in the whitewater of the global pandemic, the pocket of inclusion, and on the shoulder of updated ACM curricular guidelines, we should reflect on why we value proof and how we teach it. In this BoF, we will discuss the purpose of proof in the undergraduate computer science curriculum: Why do we do it? To what degree should we do it? How do we teach it faithfully while conveying its relevance and removing barriers to students entering the discipline?

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cover image ACM Conferences
SIGCSE 2023: Proceedings of the 54th ACM Technical Symposium on Computer Science Education V. 2
March 2023
1481 pages
ISBN:9781450394338
DOI:10.1145/3545947
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Association for Computing Machinery

New York, NY, United States

Publication History

Published: 06 March 2023

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Author Tags

  1. computer science education
  2. mathematical reasoning
  3. proof

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  • National Science Foundation

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SIGCSE 2023
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Overall Acceptance Rate 1,787 of 5,146 submissions, 35%

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SIGCSE TS 2025
The 56th ACM Technical Symposium on Computer Science Education
February 26 - March 1, 2025
Pittsburgh , PA , USA

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