Python Calculus
The slope of a tangent line is an important equation in calculus.Copyright 2013 Scott Burns, University of Nebraska-Omaha
Students analyze a cartoon of a Rube Goldberg machine and a Python programming language script to practice engineering analysis. In both cases, they study the examples to determine how the different systems operate and the function of each component. This exercise in juxtaposition enables students to see the parallels between a more traditional mechanical engineering design and computer programming. Students also gain practice in analyzing two very different systems to fully understand how they work, similar to how engineers analyze systems and determine how they function and how changes to the system might affect the system.
Engineers must be able to analyze systems to determine functionality and potential problems. For instance, mechanical engineers troubleshoot the mechanical systems on automobiles to determine why they do not work. They also analyze the same systems to determine what affect a potential change to those systems can have on the system. Structural engineers test individual components of their designs, such as for bridges, subways or skyscrapers, as well as the design as a whole under potential conditions, such as excessive loading. Engineers of all disciplines apply these types of analysis skills to perform their jobs.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Given outputs, analyze computer code to determine aspects of how the code performs.
- Analyze steps and the final outcome in a situation or process, in order to understand how the process operates.