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Title

A practical approach to inquiry-based learning in linear algebra.

Authors

Chang, J.-M.

Abstract

Linear algebra has become one of the most useful fields of mathematics since last decade, yet students still have trouble seeing the connection between some of the abstract concepts and real-world applications. In this article, we propose the use of thought-provoking questions in lesson designs to allow two-way communications between instructors and students as well as the use of simple applications to motivate learning and keep students engaged. An illustrative lesson for learning matrix multiplication and a lesson for understanding the practical meaning of orthogonal projection that are motivated by applications in image processing are presented along with a ready-to-use MATLAB code for completeness.

Subjects

INQUIRY-based learning; LINEAR algebra; TEACHER-student communication; STUDY & teaching of multiplication; ORTHOGRAPHIC projection; IMAGE processing; EDUCATION

Publication

International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science & Technology, 2011, Vol 42, Issue 2, p245

ISSN

0020-739X

Publication type

Academic Journal

DOI

10.1080/0020739X.2010.519795