This site contains a Java-based applet that uses the Newton’s (a.k.a. Newton-Raphson) method to find roots of real-valued functions.
Type of Material:
Simulation
Recommended Uses:
This site can be used for individual exploration or as a part of an in-class demonstration.
Technical Requirements:
Java enabled browser.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
To provide a numerical and graphical tool for better understanding of Newton’s method.
Target Student Population:
Students in a Calculus or Numerical Methods course or any other course that discusses linear approximation.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Basic understanding of linear approximation and Newton’s method.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
In numerical analysis, Newton's method (also known as the Newton–Raphson method), is a method for finding successively better approximations to the zeroes of a real-valued function. This site contains a JAVA based tool that implements Newton’s method to find a root of a user defined function. This tool produces both a numerically found root and a graphical representation of a function whose zero’s is being found and approximation steps. A user has control over the number of iterations, starting point, and the graphing window size.
Concerns:
The applet does not seem to produce accurate results (or a clear message) for functions that do not have zeros other than a disclaimer at the bottom. The applet can only handle a limited number of functions. For example, it does not seem to allow x^(1/3).
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
This site could serve as a supplement to a Numerical Methods course. The applet can be used as an aid to a lecture or as a quick in-class demonstration. It could also be easily used as a part of a self-guided activity.
Concerns:
The user interface of the site is far from being intuitive. This certainly limits its effectiveness as a tool for self-guided activity. It also misses the mark on the student discovery of a key concept: why Newton’s Method can fail.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The site has simple and rather minimalistic design. Once a user learns how to input a function and to use controls, the use of the tool becomes fast. Some instructions are presented and suggested activity is described.
Concerns:
It takes a while before an average user gets used to the input routine. Students are used to entering functions using the keyboard, so they may have a difficult time figuring out how to use the button operated applet. Also, there is no digital signature embedded in the applet so most students will have difficulty opening the applet.
Creative Commons:
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