Contributions of mathematical modelling for learning differential equations in the remote teaching context.
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Date
2022
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Abstract
Background: The study of the use of Mathematical Modeling as a
pedagogical alternative has been an emerging research topic and it is directly linked to
the importance of improving the teaching and learning of Mathematics and the
development of skills. However, few researches in Mathematics Education have been
dedicated to investigating the use of Modeling in the Differential Equations course and
in the pandemic context. Objectives: Identify and analyse the possible contributions of
mathematical modelling activities, in the aspects related to learning and the
development of criticality in Engineering students. Design: The research is qualitative
in its methodological assumptions, designed from the development, execution, and
assessment of four mathematical modelling activities involving 1st and 2nd order
ordinary differential equations. Setting and participants: The activities were carried
out with 117 undergrad students from nine Engineering degrees at a federal university
in the countryside of the state of Minas Gerais (Brazil), enrolled in the Differential
Equations I course, in the 1st semester of 2020. Data collection and analysis: Data
were collected through the activities carried out, the recording of classes taught
remotely, and assessment questionnaires, being analysed through a categorisation made
from the confrontation with the theoretical framework that underpinned the research.
Results: The results allow us to state that the mathematical modelling activities carried
out are rich opportunities for students’ motivation and learning, allowing for a
differentiated exploration of the applications of the mathematical contents involved,
contributing to a critical interpretation of reality, albeit in an incipient way.
Conclusions: Based on the research carried out, we can conclude by highlighting the
importance of current and future research in mathematics education in higher education,
pointing to a teaching of differential equations that breaks with the traditional model of
formula tables and methods of resolution.
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Keywords
Engineering courses
Citation
LOPES, A. P. C. e; REIS, F. da S. Contributions of mathematical modelling for learning differential equations in the remote teaching context. Acta Scientiae, Canoas, v. 24, n. 3, p. 184-215, 2022. Disponível em: <http://www.periodicos.ulbra.br/index.php/acta/article/view/7011>. Acesso em: 06 jul. 2023.