Less Mathematics Anxiety and More Engineering: the Integration of Graphing Calculators with Computer Algebra Systems (GCCAS) in Engineering Courses

Project Title

Less Mathematics Anxiety and More Engineering: the Integration of Graphing Calculators with Computer Algebra Systems (GCCAS) in Engineering Courses

Project Leader

Prof Thomas WC Hu and Prof Wenjing Ye

School / Dept

SENG / CIVL & MECH

Project Duration

Jul 2011  - May 2013

Project Description

This project promoted the use of Graphing Calculators with Computer Algebra Systems (GCCAS) in handling mathematical tasks in engineering courses that cannot be done efficiently by hand and/or ordinary calculators. Teaching materials and problem sets were developed to train students on the engineering applications of GCCAS. In addition, a web-based discussion group in Facebook was developed for students and instructors of engineering and science courses to communicate on using GCCAS.

Project Outcome

• New methods for solving mechanics problems, further automating previously CAS-assisted approaches (e.g. complete automation of the assembly procedure for matrix truss analysis), and their step-by-step illustration in various CIVL course materials;
• Revised mechanics problem sets, quizzes and exams which incorporate more in-depth treatment of popular topics in statics, dynamics and engineering surveying;
• Student survey responses and control-group test data verifying the positive impact of using computer algebra systems to alleviate mathematical burden in engineering classes;
• Innovative supplementary course materials to treat MECH 2010 homework problmes in a non-traditional, CAS-assisted way.

Status

Completed

Project Documents
(Only accessible by HKUST users)

• Project Plan
• Final Report
• Project-end Review by Project Leader

Adaptation

Full Project