NS-0260: Calculus in Context

Fall 2013/Spring 2014
Offered at Hampshire College.
Professor Sarah Hews

Calculus provides the language and some powerful tools for the study of change. As such, it is an essential subject for those interested in growth and decay processes, motion, and the determination of functional relationships in general. Using student-selected models from primary literature, we will investigate dynamical systems from economics, ecology, epidemiology and physics. Computers are essential tools in the exploration of such processes and will be integral to the course. No previous programming experience is required. Topics will include: 1) dynamical systems, 2) basic concepts of calculus– rate of change, differentiation, limits, 3) differential equations, 4) computer programming, simulation, and approximation, 5) exponential and circular functions.