For many years Mathematicians have studied Algebra with little more than their imaginations and a pencil and paper. But now, computers allow researchers to work with larger and more complicated situations than were possible in the past. Computational Algebra is the general title given to these research efforts. However, to use a computer in mathematical research requires the development of specialized software - a task that can be very time-consuming for the typical researcher. One way to address this need is through systems such as Magma which provide easy access to state-of-the-art algorithms in a number of fields of study. Another important process is to encourage researchers to share their experiences (and even software) through conferences such as this. While professional publications are important and can document one person's achievements, the interaction at a conference such as ours often leads to adaptation of ideas and development of new directions.
These tools enable theoretical researchers to explore more complicated situations, to gain insight in unfamiliar settings, and to compute answers to larger problems. Computer-based work on primality testing and factoring of large numbers is showing direct application to cryptography and security. Work in finite geometries and designs are providing improved techniques for error-detection and data compression. Each of these has a large impact on everyone's use of computers and communications.
- Michael Slattery, conference chair
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