Based on the International Commission on Mathematical Instruction
conference held in early 1987, this volume consists of a number of key
papers presented by international authorities on the role of mathematics
in applied subjects, such as engineering, computer science, and
mathematical modelling. The importance of certain mathematical ideas,
such as geometry and discrete mathematics is stressed, as well as the
more classical methods. The book includes a long article by the editor
synthesising some of the main themes and trends debated at the
conference.