Computer Assisted Interdisciplinary Problem Solving in Mathematics and Science

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This project integrates real-world interdisciplinary activities into targeted mathematics and science courses: Introductory Statistics, Algebra/Precalculus, General Chemistry, and General Physics. Two computer-equipped classrooms, one for mathematics and one for science, are essential for the success of the project. Each classroom provides an environment where students work in teams on activities designed to develop problem-solving skills and an understanding of course concepts. Three types of activity are used to meet the objectives of the project. TYPE I activities are designed to introduce students to problem-solving methodologies using a real-life scenario and an innovative problem-solving model called the WHEEL. TYPE II activities involve students from one discipline in a direct interaction with students from another discipline. TYPE III activities use technology for instruction within a specific course. They are designed to guide students in their construction of knowledge. The software required for the computer equipped classrooms (10 computers each) are Minitab, a statistics package; Derive, a computer algebra system; Quattro-Pro, a spreadsheet program; and PCSOLVE, a general problem-solving software package. This project can serve as a model for 2-year colleges to integrate a real-world problem-solving learning environment into their curriculum.