MATH 242 (Section 1) -- Elementary Differential Equations

More about Projects

What is a Project?

Mathematical projects are included in this course to provide experience applying mathematics to problems from other disciplines: chemistry, engineering, physics, electronics, biology, .... The projects, which reinforce and expand on concepts presented in class, are designed to:

The project-based approach is based on the premises that the learning and retention of mathematical concepts can be enhanced through i) exploration, ii) the process of passing from specific examples to general principles, and iii) discussing ideas with others along the way. Thus the projects are multi-step explorations and are prepared in a group of 3 or 4 students. You are strongly encouraged to discuss your ideas with others.

I will be available to provide guidance. But, while I will gladly answer questions, the reply will often be in the form of another question whose answer will direct you towards the answer to your original question. A project is yours to explore --- and enjoy.

Participation in the projects will not only help you gain mathematical expertise, but will also help you prepare for your upcoming career in several other aspects. For example, you will likely have to apply your learned expertise on a group project. This is an opportunity to develop a personal style in helping maximize the group's efforts. It is also likely you will have to prepare technical reports. This is an opportunity to develop such writing skills. And, you will have to meet deadlines. This is an opportunity to develop time management skills.

Logistics

A project is a major lengthy assignment. Start immediately -- let your subconscience work for you -- immerse yourself in the project.

You should plan your first group meeting as soon as possible. But before the first meeting, you should have read the project carefully and given it some thought. At your first meeting, you should plan a method of attack -- keeping in mind that all members of the group are expected to understand all parts of the solution.

The project report (one per group) should clearly explain and support your conclusions. It should be a mixture of prose (written in complete sentences), equations, formulas, charts, diagrams, etc. Proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation are important.

An ungraded preliminary report is due no later than one week prior to the due date. The entire team should schedule a meeting with me to discuss the project. I will not read the report for correctness or writing mistake; I will only make suggestions of general improvements where necessary.

Your project solution should be written in such a way that it can be read and understood by student in our class. You will be graded on your written presentation, including effective use of technical terminology, mathematical content and the quality and correctness of your final conclusions. It is not essential that projects be prepared on a word processor (or Maple), but if handwritten, it must be neat and legible.

Helpful Suggestions

Sample Outline for Project Report

Project Grades

A number of different criteria will be used to evaluate the projects. The following table summarizes the different qualities that I will be evaluating. The majority of each project's grade (80%) will be the same for all group members; the remaining 20% will be graded on an individual basis.

Note: The point distribution is only approximate.





Douglas B. Meade
Last revision: Wed Jan 25 17:15:28 EST 1995