Travis Nygard publishes journal article about Maya computations

Travis Nygard, associate professor of art history and co-director of the Caestecker Gallery, has published the article “Complex Maya Computations: Math, Time, Astronomy, and Hieroglyphs” in the Dakota Digital Review, journal published by the North Dakota University System.

“The article compares ancient Maya thinking to the digital world of today,” Nygard says. “It explores how ancient Maya people did math, using base 20, and how that was translated into their calendar. Sadly, the ability to read ancient Maya hieroglyphic writing was forgotten during the colonial era, but happily we can read it today due to the intensive work of scholars. The essay also tells that story, comparing it to the code-breaking of modern times.”


Related Posts

Barbara Sisson, left, and Greta M. Mahler '25

Greta M. Mahler ’25 is first author on published paper detailing laboratory exercise

A paper by Greta M. Mahler ’25 of Athens, Wisconsin, and Barbara Sisson, associate professor of biology, has been published in the journal Zebrafish. “Teaching […]

Director Emeritus of Theatre Robert Amsden rehearses a scene

Director Emeritus of Theatre Robert Amsden to play lead in ‘Death of a Salesman’

Director Emeritus of Theatre Robert Amsden will play the lead role when Oshkosh Community Players presents Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman” April 4-6. Performances […]

Jan Plane speaking at national conference

Jandelyn Plane recognized with award for broadening computing education

Jandelyn “Jan” Plane, associate professor of computer and data sciences, received a 2024 ACM SIGCSE Award. ACM SIGCSE is the Association of Computing Machinery Special […]

Paul Dietrich

Paul Dietrich releases fourth album of music, supports it with a tour

Paul Dietrich, adjunct instructor of music, released his fourth album as a leader, “5+4,” in October and supported it with a small tour in February. […]

Travis Nygard Portrait

 


Related Areas of Study