Applied numerical methods and graphical visualization

In this article, we describe an interactive, MATLAB-based, platform-independent, educational tool which integrates numerical methods for solving problems ranging from linear algebraic systems to partial differential systems with a graphical user interface. For modularity, the tool is divided into three blocks: (1) a collection of numerical methods, which constitutes the core of the package; (2) a series of examples, problems, and figures, which contributes to the understanding of the applicability of the numerical techniques implemented in the package; and (3) a graphics user interface, which integrates the methods and examples into MATLAB's graphical environment. The numerical methods range in complexity from elementary applications to more complex examples representative of engineering problems of interest. A help facility assists the user with the program features. Sample problems are presented to demonstrate the utility of the program as an educational tool and as a vehicle for introducing students to new numerical concepts and their graphical visualization.