Achieving the Right Balance: Properly Integrating Mathematical Software Packages into Engineering Education

• Published in: Journal of engineering education (Washington, D.C.) Vol. 89; no. 3; pp. 331 - 336
• Main Authors: Whiteman, Colonel Wayne E., Nygren, Colonel Kip P.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01.07.2000
• ISSN: 1069-4730; 2168-9830
• DOI: 10.1002/j.2168-9830.2000.tb00533.x

The art of engineering involves developing models of the world and acquiring information with which to design solutions to meet the needs of society. Historically, engineering educators have spent significant time applying mathematical techniques to analyze these models. Decades ago, the slide rule and electronic calculator transformed the way basic mathematical operations were performed. Today, the digital computer is similarly impacting the way more complex analytical techniques are applied. Specifically, mathematical software packages are introducing revolutionary changes to engineering problem solving and design. This paper considers the appropriate role of mathematical assistant software packages in engineering education. Recommendations to properly focus teaching effort within the classroom are provided.