Is Discrete Mathematics the New Math of the Eighties?

Abstract

In the past thirty years a number of trends in mathematics curricula have been observed. We've seen new math, basic skills, problem solving, and, most recently, discrete mathematics. The aim here is to look more closely at discrete mathematics. It is being touted by its proponents as a much needed revolution in mathematics education. With this claim in mind it seems useful to consider simultaneously the last revolution in mathematics education the so-called new math looking for parallels and any possible lessons to be learned.