We perform an asymptotic static analysis on a simple two degrees of freedom structure, made up of a highly stiff bar and two springs, which shows two different linear behaviours and different finite stiffness depending on the magnitude of an applied static force. Both regimes as well as the non-linear transition between them occur in the framework…

The historic total global human population dataset is available on Wikipedia and provides an opportunity for modelling with simple models such as the exponential and logistic differential equations for population. Using the per-capita population growth rate (PPGR) predicted by these two models and estimated PPGR from the data, we are able to…

We adapt the Lanchester combat model to represent conflict between vampires and humans. It is assumed that vampires attack humans during the hours of darkness whilst humans attack vampires during the hours of light. The right-hand side of the differential equation model therefore depends upon the hour of the day. A key insight is that to answer…

Partially automated assessment is implemented via the 'Printable worksheet' mode in the Numbas e-assessment system to create a mathematical modelling worksheet which is individualised with random parameters but completed and marked as if it were a non-automated piece of coursework, preserving validity while reducing the risk of academic misconduct…

The hanging rope problem is considered. The rope is subject to rotation with the rotation axis being parallel to the rope. Using a continuum model and the basic principles of dynamics, the differential equation governing the motion is derived. The dynamic equilibrium case without vibrational motion is assumed in deriving the equation. The equation…

The logistic differential equation is ubiquitous in calculus and differential equations textbooks. If the model is developed from first principles in these courses, it is usually done in an abstract mathematical way, rather than in one based in ecology. In this short note, we look at examples of how the model is derived in mathematical texts and…

Cybersex is the use of the Internet and its services to achieve sexual arousal and pleasure. This use, however, can become excessive and uncontrolled. Common consequences of a problematic engagement in online sexual activities are the deterioration of real-life romantic relationships and the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions, even in young…

A process is proposed to create the one-dimensional expected item characteristic curve (ICC) and test characteristic curve (TCC) for each trait in multidimensional forced-choice questionnaires based on the Rank-2PL (two-parameter logistic) item response theory models for forced-choice items with two or three statements. Some examples of ICC and…

Mathematical modelling and modelling activities are important for making sense of mathematical concepts in different extracurricular and daily life contexts. However, teachers may have difficulties in designing these activities in a way to establish meaningful relationships with real life, in accordance with the modeling process and the objectives…

Nowadays, it is essential to promote an interdisciplinary approach in classrooms, integrating disciplines such as biology and mathematics. This necessitates familiarity with specific problem-solving practices employed by the expert community, such as mathematical modelling. This perspective piece explores a mathematical modelling practice to…

"How do witnesses make identification decisions when viewing a lineup?" Understanding the witness decision-making process is essential for researchers to develop methods that can reduce mistaken identifications and improve lineup practices. Yet, the inclusion of fillers has posed a pivotal challenge to this task because the traditional…

This paper describes a teaching experiment in a Numerical Methods course for Master of Science students. The experiment uses scientific papers to develop modelling studies in the context of wine fermentation microbial interactions. The course involves theoretical and laboratory classes that focus on implementing numerical methods using Matlab for…

In this brief we shift the current academic integrity conversation from "detecting and preventing plagiarism" to "examining how plagiarized contents can be corrected with an objective knowledge of the number of words to modify and properly acknowledged". We proposed a simple, yet useful and powerful mathematical model that is…

The purpose of this note is to describe a classroom activity that can be used in introductory Operations Research courses. It consists of modelling a one-dimensional puzzle using mathematical programming to produce glider models. The exercise is designed to motivate the students in solving a problem with the opportunity of producing by themselves…

Research into didactics of calculus has maintained a long-standing interest in students' grasp of the relations between definite integrals and areas. This study comes to contribute to this line of research by unpacking how students use the concept of area to find definite integrals. Specifically, we focus on mathematical situations where the…