How to Introduce Differential Equations in a First Year Undergraduate Course in Economics
28 Pages Posted: 19 Oct 2008
Date Written: September 16, 2008
Abstract
In 2010 implementation of the European Higher Education Area in European universities will imply a rethinking of the structure of subjects taught and a likely reduction in the content of many current teaching programmes. This will be the case in "Mathematics for Economists" and will result in a gap between the knowledge previously acquired and the starting point of other subjects like microeconomics and macroeconomics. In response, we propose a more general approach to the topic of differential equations consisting of using the traditional methods of integration and the method of Euler together with computer mathematical programs. Students would thereby acquire a broader range of skills without ignoring the traditional focus. Several examples, which could be explained in class, are provided.
JEL Classification: A22, C60
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation