Course Info: NS-0260

CourseNS-0260 Calculus in Context
Long TitleCalculus in Context (Calculus I)
Term2017F
Note(s) Textbook information
Meeting InfoCole Science Center 316 on M,W,F from 10:30-11:50
FacultySarah Hews
Capacity24
Available0
Waitlist1
Distribution(s)
Cumulative Skill(s)Quantitative Skills
Additional InfoIn this course students are generally expected to spend at least 6 to 8 hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.
Description

Calculus provides the language and some powerful tools for the study of change. As such, it is an essential subject for those interested in growth and decay processes, motion, and the determination of functional relationships in general. Using student-selected models from primary literature, we investigated dynamical systems from economics, ecology, epidemiology and physics. Computers are essential tools in the exploration of such processes and were integral to the course. No previous programming experience was required. Topics included: 1) dynamical systems; 2) basic concepts of calculus -- rate of change, differentiation, limits; 3) differential equations; 4) computer programming, simulation, and approximation; 5) exponential and circular functions. In addition to regular substantial problem sets, each student applied the concepts to recently published models of their choosing.