Gansecu Enhancing Learner Ownership
0Day 1 | 7:00 PM–7:30 PM
"Enhancing Learner Ownership and Competence: The Relevance of Differential Equations in STEM Academic Curricula"
Presented by:
Virgil Ganescu, York College of Pennsylvania, York PA USA
https://qubeshub.org/community/groups/simiode/expo/2025
Abstract: Differential equations courses are intrinsic building blocks of mathematical education, with applications spanning across various scientific and engineering disciplines. This article emphasizes the relevance and impact of a differential equations course on learners who are deeply vested in the subject. By analyzing a traditional (200-level) ordinary differential (ODE) course's practical modeling applications, integration with real-world problems, and their role in developing critical thinking and analytical skills, the aim is to further underscore the indispensable value in STEM academic curricula. Through a mixed-methods observational approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data from student feedback and academic performance metrics, the enhanced engagement and competence of students who grasp the practical utility of differential equations is highlighted. Pedagogical strategies such as AI enriched differentiated instruction and course projects type assignments, that effectively bridge theoretical concepts with practical scenarios, thereby fostering a more profound and sustained interest among learners, are also discussed. Findings advocate for a curriculum design that not only emphasizes the theoretical foundations but also showcases the pervasive influence of differential equations in solving real and tangible, ideally student initiated, application problems.