Microcomputer-based lab activities are being integrated into the undergraduate mathematics curriculum. The plan is driven by a philosophy drawn from the empirical sciences: deep laboratory exercises simulate the research process, and thereby add a critical dimension to the growth of a scientist. It is expected that the students emerge with a much broader qualitative understanding of the underlying mathematics.The laboratory is equipped with 20 Macintosh IIsi computers running Mathematica, MathCAD, Minitab, and SAS/JMP; the lab is augmented with two Macintosh projection setups and a 2-unit preparation/consulting room. A previously piloted lecture/lab calculus course is being implemented in all sections of the general calculus sequence, there are improved exercises and demonstrations in the computational modeling and statistics courses and a lab format is being introduced in differential equations and linear algebra.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
9151770
Program Officer
Norman Fortenberry
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1991-07-15
Budget End
1993-12-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
$70,365
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Minneapolis
State
MN
Country
United States
Zip Code
55455