Project-Based Learning with Differential Equations

Hello,

We've reached Week 13, and for MAT223, I have announced the conclusion of our lectures for this semester! We've successfully covered all eight chapters ahead of schedule. The remaining two weeks will be dedicated to course-related activities. Next week, we have Test 2, followed by the deadlines for all remaining assessments the week after.

Final lecture at DK G31. 

I will see half of them again next year for MSG328.

This course has a two-part project investigating the application of differential equations in addressing environmental issues. Students will first submit a project proposal outlining their chosen environmental challenge. Subsequently, they will submit a comprehensive project report detailing their mathematical model, solution methods, solution verification, analysis, and conclusions. The project should demonstrate a strong understanding of ordinary differential equations and their applications in environmental contexts.

To further enhance their learning, students are also encouraged to validate their project solutions using experimental data as an option. This is particularly valuable for students with backgrounds in fields like physics, biology, or chemistry. This hands-on approach not only strengthens their understanding of differential equations but also provides a deeper, more meaningful connection to their respective fields of study.

I am thrilled to see the diverse range of topics that students have selected for their projects. I encourage them to explore their interests and I am happy to support them in venturing slightly beyond the course material if they wish to challenge themselves. As long as the fundamental concepts of differential equations are demonstrated and applied effectively, students have the freedom to choose the direction and content of their projects.

The groups that went above and beyond the course syllabus.

Student reports will be presented in the form of A3 size posters. With 33 groups participating this semester, I plan to showcase the top 10 posters outside my office. This is a tradition that was previously paused due to online learning restrictions whereby all submissions were made in softcopy version. I will reinstate the practice to recognize and celebrate the hard work and creativity of our students.

I'm excited to receive their submissions and finish grading for this course!