How to Introduce Differential Equations in a First Year Undergraduate Course in Economics

28 Pages Posted: 19 Oct 2008

See all articles by Elena Calvo

Elena Calvo

University of Zaragoza - Department of Economic Analysis

Rosa Aísa

University of Zaragoza - Department of Economic Analysis

Angels Xabadia

University of Girona - Department of Economics

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

Calvo, Elena and Aísa, Rosa and Xabadia, Angels, How to Introduce Differential Equations in a First Year Undergraduate Course in Economics (September 16, 2008). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1286646 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1286646

Elena Calvo

University of Zaragoza - Department of Economic Analysis ( email )

50005 Zaragoza
Spain

Rosa Aísa

University of Zaragoza - Department of Economic Analysis ( email )

50005 Zaragoza
Spain

Angels Xabadia (Contact Author)

University of Girona - Department of Economics ( email )

Campus de Montilivi
Girona, Girona 17071
Spain

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