Computer-based 'laboratory' course in mathematical methods for science and engineering: The Legendre Polynomials module. Final report

摘要

WhistleSoft, Inc., proposed to convert a successful pedagogical experiment into multimedia software, making it accessible to a much broader audience. A colleague, Richard J. Jacob, has been teaching a workshop course in mathematical methods at Arizona State University (ASU) for lower undergraduate science majors. Students work at their own pace through paper-based tutorials containing many exercises, either with pencil and paper or with computer tools such as spreadsheets. These tutorial modules cry out for conversion into an interactive computer-based tutorial course that is suitable both for the classroom and for self-paced, independent learning. WhistleSoft has made a prototype of one such module, Legendre Polynomials, under Subcontract (No F97440018-35) with the Los Alamos Laboratory's Technology Commercialization Office for demonstration and marketing purposes.