CSE without math? a first course in modeling, and simulation

Abstract

There are several good reasons to accompany a course in computational science and engineering from the very beginning with a general lecture on modeling and simulation. On the other hand first year undergraduate students only have elementary knowledge on mathematics and natural sciences. Consequently, a first lecture must be conceived that requires only basic mathematical and physical skills. The course on 'Foundations of Modeling and Simulation' given at the university of Siegen fulfills this requirements. It is the first in a series of 7 lectures on 'Modeling and Simulation' which later on will go much deeper into the technical details. Basic didactic considerations, examples and experiences from the first course are presented. In particular an extensive example of a fairground looping swing is discussed. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2004.