This course explores the role of computer programming in analyzing a wide range of problems of relevance to science and engineering, with emphasis on Python as a computing framework. No former experience in computer programming is required. Students are expected to have had high school level material in geometry, algebra, and trigonometry, and at least one semester of college level calculus and physics. The course will explore ideas from more advanced calculus, matrix theory, and ordinary differential equations, but it does not assume that students have already taken courses in these subjects. Explorations will range from series to fractals, including equations that explain the odd orbits of the planets, design in nature, and the concept of stability in structures. The goal is to develop computational and analytical fluency that will follow the students in their continued programs in engineering and science. Prerequisites: MTH 171, PHY 171. A minimum grade of C- is required for all prerequisites. (Adopted from the course catalog.)
This course explores the role of computer programming in analyzing a wide range of problems of relevance to science and engineering, with emphasis on Python as a computing framework. No former experience in computer programming is required. Students are expected to have had high school level material in geometry, algebra, and trigonometry, and at least one semester of college level calculus and physics. The course will explore ideas from more advanced calculus, matrix theory, and ordinary differential equations, but it does not assume that students have already taken courses in these subjects. Explorations will range from series to fractals, including equations that explain the odd orbits of the planets, design in nature, and the concept of stability in structures. The goal is to develop computational and analytical fluency that will follow the students in their continued programs in engineering and science. Prerequisites: MTH 171, PHY 171. A minimum grade of C- is required for all prerequisites. (Adopted from the course catalog.)
Everyone is required to join the messaging service called "Discord." We'll use it to communicate with each other during the semester. The Discord server you need to join is called drico. That's an invitation link. Be sure to join the channel #104.
None required.
My notes will be posted on the Engineering Computing (RP) page. These notes will have blank portions that require you to fill them in manually. Either print them for paper notes or save them for digital notes. I will send out the notes before each class, but you may not have much time before class starts, so keep this in mind.
Throughout the semester, you should be ready to show these notes (with your fill-ins) in any class, with threat of 10 percent quiz grade deductions.
The following schedule is tentative.
tentative
| Day | Date | Topics | Reading | Due |
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Weekly homework will be “due” on Fridays, but it will not be turned in for credit. However — and this is very important — each week you will grade your own homework.
Self-grading checklists will be available on moodle each Friday (around mid-day), and must be completed by Sunday (before midnight).
Working in groups on homework is strongly encouraged, but the self-assessment should reflect your own work.
The exams will be in-class. If you require any specific accommodations, please contact me.
Calculators will be allowed. Only ones own notes and the notes provided by the instructor will be allowed. No communication-devices will be allowed.
Exams are generally cumulative.
Total grades in the course may be curved, but individual homework quizzes and exams will not be. They will be available on moodle throughout the semester.
Participation and Homework 30% Exam 1 35% Exam 2 35%
Participation grades depend on filling in your notes and engagement in class activities.
In keeping with the standards of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, each course is evaluated in terms of its desired outcomes and how these support the desired program outcomes. The following sections document the evaluation of this course.
Students will have a clear and thorough understanding of the role of computer software (Python) in solving different types of problems of interest to engineers.
Students will obtain specific skills computer skills in the following:
The student will be able to write efficient, well-commented computer codes for solving fun math, physics and engineering problems.
Students will learn how to solve linear algebraic systems of equations and their relationship to engineering analysis.
Students will learn the meaning of differential equations and how to solve simple differential equations in Python
Students will be able to generate meaningful and clear graphs and plots of data.
The use of matrices, characters, arrays, cells, structures and logical expressions
The use of Python built-in functions
The use of Python user-defined functions and scripts
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