The professor of mathematics presented at the 2015 International Conference on Technology in Collegiate Mathematics.
Jeff Clark, a professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, presented a paper on March 13 on using different forms of technology in the teaching of Numerical Analysis.
Numerical Analysis examines the algorithms underlying numerical calculations, focusing on complexity, error analysis, and scaling. In order to learn about such issues, students need to develop experience and intuition working with examples beyond what can be computed with paper, pencil, and calculator.
Clark’s presentation, “Using Advanced Tools to Teach the Fundamentals of Numerical Analysis,” discusses the developmental use of spreadsheets, computer algebra systems, and programming in the language Python in teaching such a course, focusing on the different strengths of each tool.