First Year Seminar: An Introduction to Mathematical Modeling

Project Summary

The purpose of this seminar is to make available for students samples of important and realistic applications of mathematics. The goal is to provide illustrations of how mathematics is employed to solve relevant contemporary problems. No matter how simple a mathematical model is, it involves making choices and calls for creativity. The class will not assume much background in mathematics except high school mathematics. The new iteration of the course will be in collaborative online international learning (COIL) collaboration with Universidad del Desarrollo, for the first time.

Project Length

1 Month

Learning Outcomes

• Learning How to Learn: Practice newly acquired skills in an active learning environment where writing, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, presentation and argument, and/or information literacy will shape the goals and activities of the seminar.
• Foundational Knowledge: Identify the key elements for building appropriate mathematical models.
• Application: Engage in critical inquiry in the examination of concepts, texts, or artifacts, and effectively communicate the results of such inquiry.
• Integration: Relate mathematical procedures to quantitative reasoning that goes on in all other courses, including the humanities. Compare and organize themes for successful student interaction.
• Human Dimensions: Discover what it means to be an active member of an intellectual community by meeting rigorous academic expectations through critical reading, discussion, research, and/or writing. Find ways to examine the differences and commonalities of peoples far apart geographically. Identify the tools that would allow students to share and exchange experiences and perceptions of their different cultures.
• Caring: Value the importance of precise language in this field of work, as part of professionalism.

Technology Tools Used

• Flipgrid
• Zoom
• Google Meet
• Microsoft Teams
• Google Docs
• Padlet
• Microsoft 365

Interaction Mode

• Synchronous
• Asynchronous