9509135 Marchal This SBIR Phase II project aims to design and implement a prototype of interactive multimedia software to support Ordinary Differential Equation (ODE) courses and evaluate its impact in an ODE laboratory course setting. The proposed software combines mathematical simulation, graphic animation, digital video, and hypermdeia to create an engaging learning environment that builds upon contemporary learning theories of contextual learning and constructivism. The Principal Investigators work with the NSF-funded Consortium for ODE Experiments to (a) identify all required mathematical content elements required to support an introductory ODE course, (b) identify specific topics to support a laboratory-based ODE curriculum, (c) develop software module specifications, (d) identify and develop application-specific software needed to support the modules, (e) implement the software modules, (f) evaluate the prototype in a classroom setting, and (g) provide recommendations for the development of a commercial product. The anticipated benefit of the software is that it provides a convenient and challenging way for students to study and explore differential equations, giving them a bridge between the physical world and mathematics.
