Abstract:

Computer technology is an integral part in solving many tasks and calculations in a large range of fields. We can observe the work of these disciplines in everyday life around us without even realizing it. In the past, engineers used only slide rules, pencil and paper for numerical solutions, but that time has passed and mankind has moved forward in a few decades in a big way, so that calculations that used to take days or hours now take minutes or seconds.

Numerical mathematics is a rather broadening field that provides opportunities to solve examples in a different style than is normally taught. However, it is important to note that in general, during the teaching of mathematics, it is not only the result of the solved example that is important, but also the habit and understanding of the application of various methods and solution procedures to minimize human error in calculation.

An excellent environment where we can observe these errors is the well-known Microsoft Excel, in which we can step the calculation procedure.

The case study presented in this paper describes the use of MS Excel as a support tool in teaching numerical methods using computing.

The case study consists of theoretical part describing basic concepts of numerical mathematics, specifically operations with matrices and vectors. The methodology part will focus on case examples, in which the simple numerical operations will be implemented in MS Excel so as to be suitable for teaching students in secondary school.

Teaching numerical methods using computer technology develops not only logical but also algorithmic thinking and programming skills.

Keywords:

Numerical methods, Logical thinking, Algorithmic thinking, MS Excel, Education.