Integration of computer science and mathematics in upper secondary school: reflections and realizations

Abstract In this paper we outline the main features of the first part of the project Integration of Computer Science and Mathematics (Integrazione di informatica e matematica). This part of the project is aimed at introducing basic elements of computer science in mathematics courses for students aged from 14 to 16. In particular, we discuss the didactic methodology and the computer science contents to be introduced in relation to the ages in question. As the connections between the two disciplines of mathematics and computer science are the problems underlying the proposed integration, we briefly analyse these connections and, in particular, fix our attention on the influence of the teaching of computer science on the teaching of mathematics.