Teaching Modeling with Partial Differential Equations: Several Successful Approaches
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2008
Journal / Book Title
Problems, Resources, and Issues in Mathematics Undergraduate Studies
Abstract
We discuss the introduction and teaching of partial differential equations (heat and wave equations) via modeling physical phenomena, using a new approach that encompasses constructing difference equations and implementing these in a spreadsheet, numerically solving the partial differential equations using the numerical differential equation solver in Mathematica, and analytically constructing solutions from reasoned building blocks. We obtain graphical feedback as soon as possible in each approach and permit “what if” modeling wherever possible. This approach is contrasted with the usual Fourier series development and series solution using boundary value solution strategies.
DOI
10.1080/10511970701643889
MSU Digital Commons Citation
Myers, Joseph; Trubatch, David; and Winkel, Brian, "Teaching Modeling with Partial Differential Equations: Several Successful Approaches" (2008). Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works. 120.
https://digitalcommons.montclair.edu/appliedmath-stats-facpubs/120
Published Citation
Myers, J., Trubatch, D., & Winkel, B. (2008). Teaching Modeling with Partial Differential Equations: Several Successful Approaches. PRIMUS, 18(2), 161–182. https://doi.org/10.1080/10511970701643889
