An important component of this course is independent work with or on a mathematical model, carried out in groups (of up to 3 people) or independently.

The project may arise out of a concrete problem/situation (for example:  stopping or crossing an intersection on a yellow light) or from the study of developed models in an area of interest (for example:  epidemic models).  In either case, both the library and my personal library have numerous books, journals, etc. that may serve as resources.

Mathematical difficulty is not a criterion for evaluation of the project.  Your work on it is.  The project will be presented to the class during the last two weeks of the term (starting the last week of November).  Each team or individual will make at least one (20 to 45 minute) report to the class.  In the case of a team, all members must participate.  The purpose of the report is to:

    a) summarize the problem/phenomenon;

    b) explain the model;

    c) report progress and results.

The report will be evaluated (and graded) by the whole class using evaluation forms that address the adequacy of the explanation of the problem and of the model.

Each team/individual will hand in a report of the project by December 10.  It should be typed double-spaced and should not exceed 10 pages, if possible.  Care should be taken with clarity, neatness, grammar and spelling.  It should consist of the following parts:

1. abstract
2. main body (for example:  introduction, model, calculations, conclusion)
3. annotated bibliography
4. evaluation:  answer the question ``What was my contribution to this model?" (if done by a group, each student should answer separately)