Learning Math through Origami

One fundamental aim of this course is to train the eye to look for mathematics at unlikely places. Students will appreciate the value of finding patterns and asking questions about them by working only with a piece of paper. No pencils, pens, or other tools will be used. 

The craft of origami is accurate, and precise and that makes origami a powerful mathematical tool. The mathematics of origami is applied as a problem-solving technique in diverse technological fields. For example, designing equipment for space missions requires objects that can fit into small spaces s is achieved through application of origami methods. Other examples include designing robots, architecture, designing new materials etc. During the recent COVID-19 pandemic the severe shortage of breathing masks was addressed by a team of scientists and designers who came up with an easy to make mask using origami methods. This illustrates the general problem-solving nature of this skill, though it has huge value as an artistic and aesthetic pursuit.

In this course we use principles of origami to investigate some mathematical curiosities. The activities in this course differ from ordinary origami in that we don’t attempt to create any complex figures and objects. Rather, we study some simple folds and seek patterns that comes out of that process. The focus is more on looking out for the rich mathematics that lurks in every fold and crease.

Learn more about our expert course facilitator, Dr. Hari Krishna, here.