Concept in Definition ABC

The term we are analyzing comes from the Greek word ábax, which literally means "table for count ", although some sources maintain that it comes from the Hebrew word abad, which translates as dust.

Both etymologies have something in common, since it is believed that formerly the operations math Basic ones were made on a table with accumulated dust on which some type of graphic symbols or marks were noted to be counted.

Keep in mind that the use of numbers as we know them, the Arabic numerals, appeared in the 10th century and the symbols + and - emerged in the 15th century.

The abacus was invented in China in 190 AD. C

Originally this mathematical calculation instrument was made of wood. Moving parts are placed in tables with different rods, which move to carry out the different arithmetic operations. With this device it is possible to count numbers and perform addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. It could be said that this device was the first calculator used by humans.

Although its use is minority in the education system, is still used in countries like China, Japan or Korea. From the point of view of didactics of mathematics, it is a tool useful for understanding the importance of digit position and the sense of basic operations. In recent years the abacus has become fashionable as an educational toy for children. kids.

Different ways of calculating

In many circumstances of daily life we ​​have the need to calculate. If the operation is simple, we can do it mentally.

If he is a child learning the rudiments of calculus, he is likely to use his fingers.

In the event that the operation is of a certain complexity, there are several alternatives: the use of paper and pencil to make the typical accounts, the use of a calculator or the abacus.

In the Inca culture a system of ropes and knots known as quipu was used. With this procedure the Incas carried out all kinds of calculations related to daily life.

The blind men and mathematical calculations

Currently blind people have the ability to use electronic devices with voice to perform mathematical operations. However, this technology is relatively recent and blind people have had to resort to other strategies to perform calculations.

In teaching for the blind, the abacus has been the fundamental tool for the learning of the arithmetic, since through the touch it is possible to move the balls of the rods following some rules and carry out any operation.

Photo: Fotolia - Archivist