Differential Equations in Action | Making Math Matter
Details
In this course, you'll hone your problem-solving skills through learning to find numerical solutions to systems of differential equations. You'll write code in Python to fight forest fires, rescue the Apollo 13 astronauts, stop the spread of epidemics, and resolve other real-world dilemmas.
By the end of this course, you'll develop an intuition for the use of differential equations in the applied sciences. You'll also learn how to build mathematical models for systems of differential equations using a variety of techniques. Along the way, you'll learn how to translate mathematical expressions into Python code and solve some really cool problems!
You'll need a basic knowledge of programming in Python for this course, around the level of Intro to Computer Science. An understanding of Python packages, as discussed in Programming Foundations with Python, will also be helpful.
In addition, you'll need to feel comfortable with trigonometry at the high school level, as well as basic vector algebra. This class will primarily involve solving differential equations numerically rather than analytically, but some exposure to calculus and physics at the level of Intro to Physics wouldn't hurt.
Most of all, bring with you a love of learning and problem solving!
See the Technology Requirements for using Udacity here https://www.udacity.com/tech-requirements.
Outline
Introduction to the Forward Euler Method
Lesson 2: Rescuing Apollo 13, Part 2Comparing solvers, Heun’s Method, and the Symplectic Euler Method
Lesson 3: Analyzing the Spread of DiseasesImplicit methods and stiffness
Lesson 4: There’s Plenty of Fish in the Sea?Stability, sensitivity, and optimization
Lesson 5: Antilock Brake SystemsFriction, equilibria, and control theory
Lesson 6: The Path of a Forest FirePartial differential equations and heat conduction
Lesson 7: Advanced Applications of Numerical MethodsChaos, software, and predictive capability
Speaker/s
Jörn Loviscach is a professor of technical mathematics and computer engineering. In a former life, he was a professor of computer graphics, animation, and simulation, worked as editor and senior editor for several computer magazines. For three years he also served as deputy editor-in-chief of c’t Magazin für Computertechnik, a renowned German biweekly. His research integrates human-computer interaction, visual computing, and audio and music computing. Both as a researcher and as a practitioner he is interested in applying digital media to education. He has published over 1800 video lectures on his YouTube channel on mathematics and computer science, and his channel is one of the most popular of its kind in Germany.
Miriam has had the privilege to contribute to student experience at Udacity from multiple angles. From creating new courses to working one-on-one with students to helping lead our team of Coaches, she’s loved it all and has only grown more passionate about changing education. Outside of work, she enjoys singing, baking, and teaching yoga. Miriam attended Stanford University, where she earned a B.S. in Physics, a B.A. in Philosophy and Religious Studies, and an M.A. in Religious Studies.
Our mission is to bring accessible, affordable, engaging, and highly effective higher education to the world. We believe that higher education is a basic human right, and we seek to empower our students to advance their education and careers.
Education is no longer a one-time event but a lifelong experience. Education should be less passive listening (no long lectures) and more active doing. Education should empower students to succeed not just in school but in life.
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