Improving retention of calculus by engineering students in small programs

A project designed to address the problem by modifying student attitudes towards learning calculus by presenting the examples in the context of engineering and science problems is discussed. The examples are adapted from the actual sorts of problems that engineers and scientists encounter in their course of study. The project is intended as a proof-of concept study with the intent of developing a cost effective means of improving retention of calculus concepts for science and engineering students. The expected outcome is that students taking courses requiring application of calculus concepts would enter the course expecting to use calculus and will be prepared to apply advanced mathematics to engineering problems.