Enhancing the Mathematical Understanding of Students in Chemistry

（99）该项目的目的是将数学家和化学家聚集在一起，增加化学专业学生对数学及其在化学中的作用的认识，以便他们能够使用数学的工具和语言来解决科学问题。该项目有以下具体组成部分：开发一种新型化学分班考试，以识别那些无法解决多层次非算法字题的学生；微积分预科数学科学问题解决课程的开发开发有机化学实验室的新结构，加强普通化学和数学的技能；物理化学中线性代数和微分方程实验模块的开发并开设了一门高年级数学化学选修课。该项目将涉及几个重要的主题和领域。一个更准确的分班考试，加上为那些需要它的人提供的解决问题的课程，将帮助所有学生拥有在普通化学和继续学习科学方面取得成功所必需的信心和技能。通过在这个项目上的紧密合作，数学系和化学系的教员将对彼此的学科有更多的了解，从而促进教学和研究。该项目在适当的情况下将技术整合到化学课程的各个层次。它的总体目标是为学生提供数学技能，以在化学和其他科学领域取得成功。它有可能产生可以在全国范围内使用的模型和材料，并对科学教学产生广泛的全国影响。

Interdisciplinary (99)The objective of this project is to bring mathematicians and chemists together to increase chemistry students' knowledge of mathematics and its role in chemistry, so that they will be able to use the tools and language of mathematics to solve scientific problems. The project has the following specific components: development of a new type of chemistry placement exam which will identify those students who cannot solve multi-level non-algorithmic word problems; development of a pre-calculus level mathematics course on problem solving in science; development of a new structure for the Organic Chemistry laboratory component that reinforces skills from General Chemistry and Mathematics; development of laboratory modules on Linear Algebra and Differential Equations in Physical Chemistry; and development of one upper division elective courses on mathematical chemistry.This project will address several important themes and areas. A more accurate placement exam coupled with a problem-solving course for those who need it will help all students to have the confidence and skills necessary to succeed in General Chemistry and to continue studying science. The mathematics and chemistry faculty will each learn more about each other's disciplines as a result of working closely together on this project, stimulating both teaching and research. The project integrates technology where appropriate into all levels of the chemistry curriculum. Its overall objectives are to provide students with the mathematical skills to succeed in chemistry and as well other sciences. It has the potential to produce models and materials that can be used nationally and have a broad national impact on science instruction.