(263d) Smart Computing in Undergraduate Courses - Improved Understanding of Fundamentals

Experience in using a user-friendly software, Mathcad, for problem solving in undergraduate courses to improve understanding of process fundamentals is discussed. The problem solving involves the following steps: (a) pose the problem, (b) formulate the problem, (c) analyze the problem, as much as possible, without assigning numbers using symbolic algebra techniques, (d) decide what numerical approach will be the most efficient to solve the problem, and (e) only then proceed with numerical solution. Students learn interactively by changing parameter values in the problem to observe variation in problem solution. Students are encouraged to display results using graphics for improved learning and understanding. Emphasis is on obtaining solutions with increased confidence and higher precision and with minimum effort by understanding what type of problem is being presented. Students are encouraged to not introduce unnecessary complications when attempting to solve a problem and solve problems using optimal effort. Simple problems are solved using simpler techniques. More complex techniques are left only for solving more complex problems. Students learn faster with simulations and trying, failing, and succeeding on their own than via lectures, reading textbooks, and being evaluated via exams and quizzes. Mathcad has user-friendly syntax allowing the user to display the problem as if doing written work in a notepad using pencil/pen. Results are displayed on the go as parts of the problem are typed. Error flags allow for quick corrections of mistakes as and when they occur. Mathcad is interactive, with user-friendly graphics capabilities. Students can change numbers and see variations in results for the problem they are solving. In this manner, students can gain further insight into process characteristics by trying problem solving on their own. Pertinent example problems are considered for illustration.