High tech and no tech: intention and pedagogy in a modeling-based calculus course

Abstract: I will introduce the structure and pedagogy of a new math course at UC Santa Cruz: a modeling-based course in mathematics for the life sciences. Adapted from LS30 at UCLA, the UCSC course uses the dynamics of biological systems as a foundation for teaching relevant concepts from calculus, dynamics, and linear algebra. After a broad introduction to the content and structure of the course, I’ll discuss a pedagogical approach which guides our active learning discussion sections. Some are deliberately high-tech, with custom simulators of dynamical systems. Others are deliberately no-tech, with pen on paper, and chalk on the blackboard. From what we have learned over the past two years, I’ll reflect on what seems to work best for student learning and for the development of our teaching team.

mathematics education

Audience: researchers in the topic

Online Seminar On Undergraduate Mathematics Education

Series comments: Description: Seminar on university-level math education

OLSUME is an online seminar centered on mathematics education at the university level. Talks will cover curriculum, pedagogy, inclusiveness, professional development, blended and flipped classrooms, and other topics of interest.

ZOOM LINK: cornell.zoom.us/j/92415199317 Password: olsume