Marshall Mathematics Colloquium

Friday, April 29, 3:30 P.M.

Drinko Library, Room 402

Dr. Arthur Porter

Professor Emeritus, University of Toronto

Manchester University’s Contributions

to Analog and Digital Computing

Abstract:  Dr. Porter will discuss the role Manchester University played in the development of computing and computer applications.  His talk will include the following topics:

· Analog and digital computer developments at the University of Manchester during 1932 – 1937 and 1946 – 1953 (a brief account).  

· Manchester University’s influence on 20^th century physics and biological science and the pedagogical significance of “model” and “metaphor”. 

· Recruitment of British universities for service before and during World War II and the birth of radar, operations research, and computer code breaking (e.g. Engma).

· Reflections on his debt to Vannevar Bush and Douglas Hartree.

· The significance of the Marshall Differential Analyzer program.