Our materials combine the flexibility and connectivity of the Web with the power of computer algebra systems. These materials may be used by groups of learners as an integrated part of a course or by individuals as independent projects or supplements to classroom discussions. Some modules use an application area to stimulate learning of mathematics, and others go straight to the mathematics. Projects are longer units that may be completed by small groups of students over a period of one or more weeks. Most projects involve a significant application of mathematics and are intended to demonstrate the process by which mathematics is used by working scientists and engineers.
Textbooks are still longer works that support entire courses or major portions thereof.
Our Web-based books differ significantly from print textbooks in their degree of interactivity and use of computer tools. The modules which make up the majority of the learning materials at the Duke site were developed for use in undergraduate mathematics courses including Precalculus, Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Engineering Mathematics and Mathematical Finance. Nearly all modules are currently available for Maple. Many are available for Mathematica, and some are available for Mathcad and Matlab. In addition to the undergraduate materials, there is a subset of modules designed specifically for a one semester independent study course for students who have completed a year of calculus and wish for a greater breadth and depth of understanding of the standard material covered at the high school level.