One... two... three... Six?!??

Matthew Szudzik

Abstract:
Given a short sequence of numbers, how can the next number in the
sequence be found?  Matthew Szudzik discusses this mathematical
problem, connecting ideas published by Thoralf Skolem in the 1920's to
ideas that were more recently explored in the development of
Wolfram|Alpha, the computational knowledge engine that helps to power
Microsoft's Bing and Apple's Siri.

Matthew Szudzik is an Assistant Teaching Professor of Mathematics at
Carnegie Mellon University in Doha, Qatar.  His work focuses on the
mathematical foundations of computer science.  Formerly, he held a
position at Wolfram Research Inc., where he worked closely with
individuals responsible for the initial development of Wolfram|Alpha.