Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Modeling Zombie Outbreaks: A Problem-Based Approach To Improving Mathematics One Brain At A Time, Matthew Lewis, James A. Powell

Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Publications

A great deal of educational literature has focused on problem-based learning (PBL) in mathematics at the primary and secondary level, but arguably there is an even greater need for PBL in college math courses. We present a project centered around the Humans vs. Zombies moderated tag game played on the USU campus. We discuss the project in the context of an undergraduate differential equations course and discuss how the project is launched. We highlight examples of students mathematical models along with their verbal and written responses as well as discussing assessment and student learning. Results are discussed in the context …