Mathematics and Statistics Colloquium

Calvin University

Mariah Birgen
Wartburg College

September 11, 2025
3:05pm   •   North Hall 276

Modeling First:
Exploring Calculus and Differential Equations
through Epidemic Models and Beyond

Differential equations are a natural language for describing change, yet many students encounter them only after extensive prerequisite coursework. A modeling-first approach makes these ideas accessible to students in their first term in college. In this talk, I will begin with a demonstration of the construction of an epidemic model and show how modifying assumptions naturally leads to more sophisticated systems. Along the way, students develop numerical intuition for calculus concepts and discover the power of simulation-based reasoning. I will conclude by sharing student-designed projects that extend these ideas to topics ranging from population dynamics to economics.