Use of Computer Algebra Systems in Teaching and Learning of Ordinary Differential Equations among Engineering Technology Students

Abstract

This chapter describes the computer algebraic system, Maple, used to enhance engineering technology students’ understanding in learning ordinary differential equations (ODE). Ten undergraduate students studying industrial automation and robotics technology were selected to be the participants. They were required to enroll in engineering mathematics as the prerequisite for control system and robotics subject. Engineering mathematics is commonly taught using the traditional approach but the lecturer as a researcher introduced Maple as an alternative teaching approach to engage students in the learning of differential equations. The students were interviewed after using Maple for solving mathematics problems. It was found that these students managed to visualize the solutions of the given mathematics problems. The learning of differential equations has become meaningful in such a way that they could see the relationship between mathematics and its application in the real world.