Cryptography as a Bridge to Abstract Mathematics

Abstract

We introduce learning modules in cryptography that can be crafted to motivate many abstract mathematical ideas, and we illustrate with a sample module. These modules can be used in a variety of ways, such as the core for a cryptography course or as motivating topics in other courses such as abstract and linear algebra or number theory.

Keywords:

• Learning modules in cryptography
• linear feedback shift registers
• motivating abstract mathematics

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Aaron Wootton received a BSc in mathematics and philosophy at the University of Southampton, England, and his PhD in mathematics from the University of Arizona. His research lies in the areas of Complex Algebraic Geometry and Group Theory, with specific interests in Symmetries of Surfaces. Other interests include participation and fostering of undergraduate research in mathematics and the development of educational resources. In his spare time, when not enjoying time with his family, he plays soccer and he drums for a punk rock band called “Sack of Cats”!