EXPLORING STUDENTS’ UNDERSTANDING OF ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS USING COMPUTER ALGEBRAIC SYSTEM (CAS)

ABSTRACT

Ordinary differential equations (ODEs) are one of the important topics in engineering mathematics that lead to the understanding of technical concepts among students. This study was conducted to explore the students’ understanding of ODEs when they solve ODE questions using a traditional method as well as a computer algebraic system, particularly Maple. Ten engineering technology students from the robotics and the mechatronics departments were selected as the research participants. Semi-structured interviews, observations, and students’ written scripts were used for gathering the information regarding the use of Maple for solving the given ODE questions. The findings revealed that Maple could assist students in understanding the ODE lesson, especially in getting rid of tedious calculations as well as producing interactive activities while learning mathematics. Generally, students were able to figure out the relationship between mathematical understanding and real-life engineering applications. Some recommendations are made in order to promote the use of Maple among students, particularly in their final-year project.