Portfolios to Integrate Mathematics, Science and Computer Science

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This project builds on the previously granted NSF collaborative computer calculus project. It will further enhance the student experience by: (1) Adding physics and chemistry projects throughout the calculus sequence, and into precalculus, and differential equations; (2) Adding computer science projects to the discrete mathematics and pre-calculus courses; (3) Using the portfolio product mode in the physics, chemistry and computer science courses. The use of portfolios as an assessment tool will produce a product of national importance. The interplay in this project between mathematics and the sciences -- physics, chemistry, and computer science -- will create an educational environment that emphasizes the interconnection of scientific knowledge in order to prepare students more effectively for the future. Students will be introduced to state-of-the-art technology including CD-ROM, and the creation of three dimensional animations of functions using MAPLE or similar software. An end product of this project will be a faculty manual, Portfolios Across Scientific Disciplines.