First Course in Mathematical Modeling

A comprehensive text whose primary purpose is to support an introductory modelling course that bridges the gap between calculus and real-world applications of mathematics. The authors show students how to use fundamental mathematical concepts in a modelling framework to investigate practical problems from many academic disciplines. All phases of the modelling process are thoroughly explained and students are given opportunities to practise creative and empirical model construction, model analysis and model research through numerous problems and projects. Special emphasis is given to identifying problems, constructing or selecting models and determining what data needs to be collected. This book should be of interest to introductory modelling courses for degree and diploma students of the mathematical sciences, operations research, engineering and the management and life sciences; a basic understanding of single-variable differential and integral calculus is a prerequisite.