Using StarLogo to Introduce Differential Equations
Philip Anderson
Department of Mathematics
Box 134
South Plains College
Levelland, TX 79336
E-mail: panderso@spc.cc.tx.us
Carl R. Seaquist
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX 79409-1042
E-mail: seaqucr@math.ttu.edu
ABSTRACT
Massively parallel programming languages, like StarLogo, provide a rich environment for introducing
differential equations to students with an unsophisticated mathematical background.
In this paper we describe the basic software for simulating and monitoring various population dynamics.
Simple differential equations that describe the observed dynamics are introduced.
The same environment is then used to explore solutions to the differential equations using
Euler's method. Many solutions can be displayed simultaneously and viewed as a flow, which
is easier to understand than the more traditional slope fields. All software is written in
StarLogo, a massively parallel version of Logo, and can be easily modified, thus permitting
students to embark on their own explorations.
