College Algebra Through Modeling and Visualization

College Algebra through Modeling and Visualization offers an innovative approach that consistently links mathematical concepts to real-world applications by moving from the concrete to the abstract. With a flexible approach to the rule of four (verbal, graphical, numerical, and symbolic methods), instructors can easily emphasize any aspects of the rule to meet their students' needs. There is an appropriate, flexible use of technology throughout the text, which helps students visualize mathematical concepts. However, technology use is not a requirement for students to benefit from this applications-based text.

Dr. Gary Rockswold has been teaching mathematics for 25 years at all levels from seventh grade to graduate school, including junior high and high school students, talented youth, vocational, undergraduate, and graduate students, and adult education classes. He is currently employed at Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he is a full professor of mathematics and the chair of the mathematics department. He graduated with majors in mathematics and physics from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He received his Ph.D. in applied mathematics from Iowa State University. He has an interdisciplinary background and has also taught physical science, astronomy, and computer science.

Dr. Rockswold has been writing for mathematics textbooks for over ten years. Currently he is an author for Addison Wesley, writing textbooks that integrate modeling, visualization, applications, and the graphing calculator into the curriculum.