MATH 475 - Mathematical Modeling

Description:
An introduction to mathematical modeling using examples from physical, chemical,biological, economic, and social systems. The use of software, critical thinking, and technical communication will be emphasized.

Prerequisites:
Prerequisites: MATH 265 and MATH 272 and MATH 376 and MATH 299S with a grade of C or higher, or with consent of the instructor.

Credits: (4)

Learner Outcomes, Activities and Assessments

Learner Outcomes	Activity	Assessment
Students will select mathematical models to best describe the process of mathematical modeling.	Assignment or essay in which students select mathematical models to best represent steps in the modeling process, and justify their conclusions.	Essay with rubric evaluated by faculty or graded assignment
Students will predict modeling results.	Students will analyze equations for the model, understanding how each part of the equations corresponds to the modeling scenario, and will estimate the effects of what is included and excluded from the model to predict results.	Graded assignments. This material will appear in technical reports on one or more projects with a rubric evaluated by faculty.
Students will assess mathematical models by obtaining numerical results.	Students program software and use data to obtain modeling results.	Results included in technical reports, and also included on graded assignments.
Students will appraise the requirements of a problem to make modeling decisions, they will judge what to include and what to leave out of a model, and they will defend their choices based on results and constraints. Students will evaluate which mathematical model performs best in a modeling situation	Students write one or more technical reports on modeling projects, defending their choices, making predictions, and judging their results. Students may also make a presentation to the class about a chosen mathematical model.	Technical reports on one or two projects, with a rubric evaluated by faculty Oral presentation evaluated by rubric