Filling the Tank: The Math Modeling/PreCalculus Reform Project

正在为数学应用方面的创新课程开发材料，作为现有微积分预科和相关课程的现代替代品。本课程是微积分预科数学模型的入门课程，为学生提供微积分所需的技能和知识。课程中建立的模型主要基于离散数学主题，如差分方程、数据分析、概率和矩阵代数。本课程涉及计算机和/或图形计算器工作，以研究大多数数学模型。它还包括各种现场课堂实验，以调查数学模型如何很好地反映实际过程，或帮助建立基于观察到的实验数据的数学模型。本课程以一系列学生调查为特色，提供真实生活的维度。它旨在通过让学生接触数学的广泛适用性，为他们提供继续在数学相关领域学习的动机和动力。

Materials are being developed for an innovative course in mathematical applications as a modern replacement for existing precalculus and related courses. The course is an introduction to mathematical models at the precalculus level and provides students with the skills and knowledge needed for calculus. The models developed in the course are primarily based on discrete mathematical topics such as difference equations, data analysis, probability, and matrix algebra. The course involves computer and/or graphing calculator work to investigate most of the mathematical models. It also involves a variety of live classroom experiments to investigate how well the mathematical models reflect actual processes or to help develop mathematical models based on observed experimental data. The course features a series of student investigations to provide a real- life dimension. It is designed to provide students with the motivation and impetus to continue on in mathematically related fields by exposing them to the wide applicability of mathematics.