PROCEEDINGS OF THE 15TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE ON RESEARCH IN UNDERGRADUATE MATHEMATICS EDUCATION (Vol 2)
2012
Portland, Oregon
Mathematical Modeling and Engineering Majors
Page: 2-391
A first course in differential equations for engineers and scientists is intended to introduce the students to key principles and techniques involved in using mathematics as a modeling tool. However, a great many students emerge with only a limited number of analytic techniques that are applicable only to a narrow selection of equations, despite the inclusion of word problems in the curriculum. Previous research into mathematical modeling competencies indicates that the students’ difficulties can be traced to coordinating mathematical with physical reasoning. The purpose of this research is to develop tasks for a data collection instrument that will allow for the development of a cognition based model of how such skills grow.