Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Carrying Biomath Education In A Leaky Bucket, James A. Powell, Brynja R. Kohler, James W. Haefner, Janice Bodily

Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Publications

In this paper, we describe a project-based mathematical lab implemented in our Applied Mathematics in Biology course. The Leaky Bucket Lab allows students to parameterize and test Torricelli’s law and develop and compare their own alternative models to describe the dynamics of water draining from perforated containers. In the context of this lab students build facility in a variety of applied biomathematical tools and gain confidence in applying these tools in data-driven environments. We survey analytic approaches developed by students to illustrate the creativity this encourages as well as prepare other instructors to scaffold the student learning experience. Pedagogical results …