QR decomposition is widely used for solving the least squares problem. However, existing materials about it may be too abstract for non-mathematicians, especially STEM students, and/or require serious background in linear algebra. The paper describes theoretical background and examples of GNU Octave compatible MATLAB scripts that give relatively…

Simulation studies are the basic tools of quantitative methodologists used to obtain empirical solutions to statistical problems that may be impossible to derive through direct mathematical computations. The successful execution of many simulation studies relies on the accurate generation of correlated multivariate data that adhere to a particular…

Background/purpose: In modern mathematical education, it is important to develop students' ability to understand the fundamental properties of geometric objects deeply. This makes it relevant to study the additivity of the area of triangles as a property inherent in various kinds of quantities and ways of representing it methodologically in the…

This study explores the integration of game play into an inclusive, hands-on computing project in Calculus class. The project is focused on designing and analyzing priority switches for applications competing for computational resources on embedded devices such as smart watches and tablets. By engaging students in real-world problem-solving…

Let R be an integral domain with quotient field F, let S be a non-empty subset of R and let n = 2 be an integer. If there exists a rational function ?: S [right arrow] F such that ?(a)[superscript n] = a for all a ? S, then S is finite. As a consequence, if F is an ordered field (for instance,[real numbers]) and S is an open interval in F, no such…

The use and understanding of mathematics is a crucial component of the physical sciences. Much work has been done in physics education research and science education more broadly to determine persistent difficulties with mathematics. This work has led to the development of numerous problem solving strategies aimed at helping learners approach…

In this paper, we derive the result of the classical gambler's ruin problem using elementary linear algebra. Moreover, the pedagogical advantage of the derivation is briefly discussed.

I propose that students pay more attention to the approximations that lead to integral formulas when they study applications of the definite integral. The goal is to focus students on the underlying concepts and the definition of the definite integral--and to steer them away from memorizing formulas. To address this goal, I have written some…

The main objective of this paper is to propose a didactic framework for teaching Applied Mathematics in higher education. After describing the structure of the framework, several applications of inquiry-based learning in teaching numerical analysis and optimization are provided to illustrate the potential of the proposed framework. The framework…

The paper investigates geometric errors students made as they tried to use their basic geometric knowledge in the solution of the Applied Calculus Optimization Problem (ACOP). Inaccuracies related to the drawing of geometric diagrams (visualization skills) and those associated with the application of basic differentiation concepts into ACOP…