Mathematics is more than just numbers and symbols on a page. Applications of mathematics are indispensable in the modern world. Math can be used to determine whether a meteor will impact Earth, predict the spread of an infectious disease, or analyze a remarkably close presidential election. In this course, students create and evaluate mathematical models to represent and solve problems across a broad range of disciplines, including political science, economics, biology, and physics.

Students begin with a review of some of the core mathematical tools in modeling, such as linear functions, lines of best fit, and exponential and logarithmic functions. Using these tools, students examine models such as those used in population growth and decay, voting systems, or the motion of a spring. Students also learn how to use Euler and Hamilton circuits to find the optimal solutions in a variety of real-world situations, such as determining the most efficient way to schedule airline travel. A introduction to probability and statistics lead into a study of using deterministic versus stochastic models to predict the spread of an epidemic and explore classic mathematical problems such as the traveling salesman problem, birthday paradox, and light switching problem.  Students are introduced to logic proofs by induction and contradiction.  Students leave this course familiar with all steps of the modeling process, from defining the problem and making assumptions, to assessing the model for strengths and weaknesses.

What is the difference between science and engineering? What are the techniques that must be applied for successfully tackling any engineering challenge, from designing and building a bed-side table to conceptualizing and sending a shuttle to space? How can a group of engineers efficiently compartmentalize a multi-system project, allocate tasks and optimize the budget provided to solve a multifaceted constructional problem? This course explores a range of topics from physics and science and bridges the gap between pure theoretical knowledge and its practical application. Through daily doses of lectures, class discussions, problem-solving and plentiful hands-on lab activities, the students will be exposed to an array of concepts, varying from Newtonian dynamics and circuitry to fluid dynamics and thermal physics and through their application, complete engineering tasks of progressively increasing complexity. 

Learning objectives:

• Apply concepts from various topics of physics into practical constructional projects with strict requirements, aimed at tackling specific problems of varying complexity and constraints.
• Train in the engineering design process, practical problem-solving and collaborative teamwork to complete assigned engineering design and production tasks. 
• Develop and train a variety of technical skills, including detailed technical drawings of projects, precision soldering of electronic components and wood work skills.