An Undergraduate Technology-based Applied Mathematics Program: THE B. APPL. SC. Program in Mathematics at UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA
ROSIHAN M. ALI
rosihan@cs.usm.my
A. IZANI B.MD. ISMAIL
izani@cs.usm.my
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
The rapid industrialization of Malaysia has resulted in a high demand for applied mathematicians, scientists and engineers who are skilled in the mathematical and computer modeling of problems arising in business and industry. It is very desirable that both symbolic and numerical computing become an integral part of the undergraduate degree program. The objective is not the study of technological devices (graphic calculators and computers), but rather to use them to facilitate and promote the study of mathematics. The precise manner of using such technology within the undergraduate program is a pedagogically difficult transition period. In addition, departments have to operate with inadequate computational facilities and a lack of technical support to maintain equipments. In this article we describe an undergraduate mathematics program which has been designed to produce graduates reasonably trained in mathematical and computer modeling. Further plans to improve this program, in particular with regard to the use of hand held technology, are also described.
© Asian Technology Conference in Mathematics, 1998. |
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