Mathematicians at Washington and Lee are developing an innovative course in tensor calculus as a sequel to an existing course in vector calculus. They are creating computer laboratory and class materials that will support and supplement both the existing vector calculus course as well as its sequel. These subjects involve the study of quantifiable spatial relationships (as in physics) and related quantities plotted in an abstract space (as in economics). Mathematicians have devel- oped these concepts by quantifying their geometric intuition. This project plans to use mathematical computer graphics to cultivate such geometric intuition in students. Students will use computers as tools of investigation of vector calculus concepts and learn to visualize three dimensional shapes.
