Scaffolding Simulations in a Rate Processes of Materials Course
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Abstract
This learning resource describes a set of programming assignments that are used in a Rate Processes of Materials course. The assignments are designed around the pedagogical principle of scaffolding, in which students are given initial support structures that are gradually removed. The incremental skill-building helps students become independent learners.
During the term, students complete four programming assignments utilizing MATLAB; two skill modules focused on general programming and simulation methods and two scenario-based memos targeting specific materials science simulations or data processing. These are described below:
- Skill Module 1: The introductory activity provides a review of MATLAB syntax and programming skills. Students complete an online MATLAB tutorial to address any gaps in their prior knowledge, take a brief online quiz based on the tutorial, and analyze a simple data set.
- Skill Module 2: In this module, students are introduced to the Finite Difference Method (FDM), which is a computational method used to estimate the solutions to partial differential equations. Students complete a task requiring them to apply the FDM to solve a basic physics problem. The activity also requires students to perform basic code verification, comparing their simulation result to a known solution.
- Scenario 1: This assignment requires the FDM (from Skill 2) to be used to solve a materials science problem. In this scenario, students take on the role of engineers at a chemical company. They are provided with the concentration of a chemical over time and need to use this information to calculate the reaction order and reaction constant. Finally, students simulate the reaction kinetics assuming a different starting reaction concentration.
- Scenario 2: For the final memo, students are given their choice of assignments.
- Scenario 2A: In this assignment, students extend their knowledge of the FDM to simulate one-dimensional diffusion based on Fick's laws of diffusion. Students must compare their results from data provided in a paper.
- Scenario 2B: This task is based on analyzing a three-dimensional microstructure. Students are provided with the data, but must develop a MATLAB script to analyze the large data set. Similar to Scenario 2A, students must read and summarize the key points of a paper.
Included in the distribution are the student instructions, data files where needed, and corresponding rubrics. Solutions have not been provided as these activities are still used in the course. Contact Susan Gentry (spgentry@ucdavis.edu) if you have any questions.
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