This study presents the rationale behind and execution of an interdisciplinary STEM lesson on mathematical modelling for secondary and pre-tertiary students in Singapore. The lesson employs relatable contexts such as a zombie apocalypse to foster understanding of concepts in infectious diseases. Instead of directly introducing differential equations, which are typically employed in such models, an alternative computational thinking approach is utilized. A key objective is the acquiring of the mathematical reasoning behind the susceptible-infected-recovered (SIR) model for infectious disease spread. In addition, this approach is also accessible to students unacquainted with calculus, without compromising the rigor and accuracy of the model.

Aligned with Singapore’s strategic focus on educational technology in the education system, the lesson supports students in developing foundational data competencies and computational thinking skills with the use of spreadsheet software. These readily available digital tools facilitate the automation of calculations and modelling of disease spread. Predicted outcomes by the model can be compared with real-world data e.g. COVID-19 infection numbers. This enables students to see how mathematics and biology intersect, fostering a better appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of real-world problems.

Authors:
Kim Yong Lim, National University of Singapore, Singapore
Mei Ting Ng, National University of Singapore, Singapore

About the Presenter(s)
Ng Mei Ting is a senior Scientific Officer in the Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore. She engages local and international students across all age groups in science demonstrations and STEM-related workshops.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngmeiting

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