| This thesis is an introductory unit to the computational sciences for the high school level. This unit will attempt to give the reader an idea of what the computational sciences consist. It will attempt to explain, through examples of early algorithms and later advancements, how and why algorithmic improvements are developed. Because of its focus toward math teachers and students, the algorithms included will be primarily mathematical in nature, but will include applications in other areas of science and industry. The algorithms included involve solving systems of linear equations, finding solutions to nonlinear equations, linear regression and linear programming. We also attempted to give some background on computer numbers and error. The goal is for the reader to come away with the knowledge of what is computational science, why is it necessary, and why is it difficult. In the end, it is hoped that as teachers become better informed in the area of computational science, more students will be encouraged to enter the field of research in mathematics. It is also hoped that teachers will be better prepared to answer questions from the students as to applications and "When am I ever going to use this.". |
