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Differential Calculus for Economic Analysis


DLSU

Introduction

Differential Calculus for Economic Analysis is an introductory course in mathematics for economic analysis at the undergraduate level. What makes it different from other differential calculus courses in other fields are (1) the immediate introduction and connection to slopes of curves without necessarily starting from limits (2) the introduction of Python labs to encourage self-checking and self-discovery (3) the early introduction of functions of two or more variables and how to extend the idea of slopes in this context (4) emphasis on applications of calculus actually used in the economics major.

Learning Goals

1. Learn to move beyond rote calculations towards understanding the common theme of approximation across different applications.

2. Learn how to map and choose which mathematical ideas would be useful in a specific economic context.

3. Learn how to use symbolic computation in Python and be a self-starter.

4. Learn how to use differential calculus more quickly and more intelligently.

Course slides

The course slides can be found at https://diffcal.neocities.org.

Course Operation Period

Period : November 4, 2024 to December 14, 2024, with optional sessions for further immersion

Course Level

Introductory

Prerequisites

To complete this course successfully, you should possess skills in algebra at the level of a high school student. Note that:

1. No prior exposure to calculus is required.

2. No prior exposure to economics is required.

3. You need to be able to understand English as this is the medium of instruction.

4. No prior exposure to Python programming is required.

If you do not possess skills in high school algebra, you may choose to still participate but you may want to reach out for help using the email address found in the Professor Information section of this page.

Evaluation Standard

Average of the grades for all the weekly homework assignments should be greater than or equal to 60%.

Textbook & References

Essential Mathematics for Economics Analysis (any edition, main authors include Sydsaeter and Hammond)

Professor Information

Andrew Adrian Pua
De La Salle University
Associate Professor
https://apsacad.neocities.org
I am currently an Associate Professor at De La Salle University - Manila in the Philippines and I used to teach at Xiamen University in China. My teaching interests and assignments are usually in quantitative areas like mathematics, statistics, and econometrics at various levels.
oer.dlsu.soe@gmail.com
  1. Course Number

    DCEA01
  2. Classes Start

  3. Estimated Effort

    7:30
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