Mathematics provides us with tools to capture and explain phenomena in everyday biology, even at the nanoscale. The most regularly applied technique to biology is differential equations. In this article, we seek to present how differential equation models of biological phenomena, particularly the flow through ion channels, can be used to motivate…

In this paper, we discuss how a professor could have students, using rational and exponential functions, develop models for several different density-dependent populations based on characteristics of the species. Students would then need to choose an appropriate method from among three different analytic methods (find a solution, phase-line…

Differential equations (DEs) are a powerful tool for modeling real-world contexts. Most research in this area has examined students' understanding and reasoning with pre-packaged DEs, with little attention being given to setting up sophisticated DEs to model complicated real-world situations. This study contributes through a collective case study…

On 24 June 1994 at Fairchild Air Force Base, during practice for an air show, a low-flying B-52H aircraft banked its wings vertically and crashed. Emphasizing the activity of modeling drag and gravity, these notes examine the possibility of recovery with several models. First, with algebra, historical data lead to a model where in a free fall near…

The limitation of conventional visual acuity assessment, which primarily focuses on individual eye performance (monocular visual acuity tests). This study addresses this limitation by emphasizing the importance of binocular vision, where both eyes work together. Binocular vision provides numerous advantages, such as improved depth perception, a…

This paper introduces the basic knowledge of integral factors of first-order ordinary differential equations and Lie symmetry analysis. It then discusses the principle of constructing an integral factor of the first-order ordinary differential equation by the Lie symmetric method. Finally, it presents some examples to show the process of…

A standard element of the undergraduate ordinary differential equations course is the topic of separable equations. For instructors of those courses, we present here a series of novel modeling scenarios that prove to be a compelling motivation for the utility of differential equations. Furthermore, the growing complexity of the models leads to the…

We present an intriguing topic in a mathematical modelling course where Lanchester models are taught to our students. Lanchester models are some of the earliest and most important models used for combat modelling. We describe modelling activities and the use of technology that can be implemented in teaching this topic in this paper.

This paper presents results of a study aimed at describing and discussing evidence/features of advanced algebraic thinking processes. To achieve these objectives, we analysed the written production of students enrolled in engineering courses working on mathematical modelling tasks related to differential equations. Our guiding question was as…

High requirements for professional training of Defence Specialists were and remain the main guarantee of successful functioning of any military structure. Continuous improvement of the educational process in higher military educational institutions is the basis for its transformation to the conditions of the current situation in the world. In the…

In application-oriented mathematics, particularly in the context of nonlinear system analysis, phase plane analysis through SageMath offers a visual display of the qualitative behaviour of solutions to differential equations without inundating students with cumbersome calculations of the plane-phase. A variety of examples is usually given to…

In this report, we present cases where students constructed new quantities through operating on quantities that does not fit the definitions of existing theories on quantitative operations. As a result, we identified five quantitative operators--operators that can be used on single qualities in order to transform the quantity to a new…

This paper describes two examples of teaching situations in which the idea of infinity arises, and supports the conclusion that infinity is not a physical reality but a very powerful and useful mathematical device which facilitates modelling and the solution of problems in physics.

Gaining useful insight into real-world problems through mathematical modelling is a valued activity across several disciplines including mathematics, biology, computer science and engineering. Differential equations are a valuable tool used in modelling. Modelling provides a way for students to engage with differential equations within a…

Discrete time models, one linear and one non-linear, are investigated, both with a herbivore species that consumes a basal food source species. Results are presented for coexistence of the species and to illustrate chaotic behaviour as parameters are varied in the non-linear model. The results indicate the benefit of fertilization in terms of the…