Abstract:

When you have math courses in engineering programs, you rarely think about seeing them implemented in a laboratory. However, we have seen that several mathematical topics can be explained as simple experiments, which involve its representation as a physical or chemical phenomena. In these experiments the student could recognize the application immediately, strengthening the mathematical concepts, which will boost learning and will make it meaningful to him.

In this work we share the experience and the results we have obtained by implementing three experiments for the course of Differential Equations taught at the School of Engineering in Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM). Currently these experiments are part of the project PE111218 Design of laboratory experiments to strengthen the learning of mathematical concepts in basic sciences, which is aimed to improve the teaching-learning process of mathematical concepts involved in various courses of basic sciences.

The experiments carry the title: Application of differential equations in the cooling of a substance according to Newton's law of cooling, Determination of the speed constant and order of a chemical reaction by the analysis of differentials equations and Analysis of the draining of a cylindrical tank using differential equations.

This work is implemented as an extracurricular activity for the student and teacher, however the results show us that in addition to reinforcing the concepts of the courses, we promote other skills and competencies that are useful in the preparatoion of future engineers.

Keywords:

Engineering education, Basic Sciences, Laboratory Experiments, Mathematical Concepts.