9353912 Porter This conference brings together a group of thirty college teachers of mathematics and biology to learn about the content and uses of difference and differential equations in modeling problems of biology and ecology. Participants train on existing software packages and in their use as classroom instructional tools. The materials cover fundamental topics from both difference and differential equations and how they are used to understand problems in population dynamics and other related biological and ecological areas. The goal is to modernize undergraduate courses in which these topics can be a vital part. Applications of mathematics to and from biology and ecology are a main theme throughout the conference. Mornings are devoted to lectures and demonstrations by the speakers. Afternoons involve hands-on computer activities, problem solving, modeling of biological problems, group discussions, participant presentations and the construction of a module or course outline. The conference is followed by class testing of the module/outline along with models and computer activities during the 1994-95 school year. The reports are submitted to the project director for distribution to all participants. Each report will include a revised copy of the module/outline/other activity along with an evaluation of classroom success. A selection of reports will be distributed nationally. ***
