provocative opinion -
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Calculus: A Pump and Not a Filter, Chemistry: A Pump and Not a Filter Fred H. Walters University of Southwest Louisiana, Lafayette, LA 70504 "Calculus is a critical way station for the technical manpower that this country needs. I t must become a pump instead of a filter in the pipeline." This keynote statement hv Robert M. White. President of the Natural Academv of fngineering, is the foeus of two reports put out by the ~ a t h ematical Association of America (MAAJ(Calculus foro New Century-A Pump and Not A Filter;Steen, ~ y n kArthur, Ed.; MAA Notes #8; and Towards a Lean and Lively Calculus; MAA Notes # 6 ) . The efforts to note and influence the direction of the teaching of calculus can he seen in the interest and ferment that these reports have caused. A recent issue of Focus (MAA's newsletter) (Vol. 8, #1, January-February 1988) reported on these reports and mentions future conferences and discussions are forthcoming. These changes and lively discussions are occurring in an area long known for slow changes and conservatism. Questions are being raised as to a standard calculus curriculum, what its content should he, ways t o introduce modern computer and calculator methods (to cut down on the drudgery found in present textbooks), and how to integrate applica-
432
Journal of Chemical Education
tions into the course. The hope is to lead to a calculus that is leaner and livelier than the present course and with more significant applications. Those three semesters of calculus we all took as chemists, long the differentiating factor in chemistry curricula, may he different in the future. The aim is for a unified calculus with a variety of problems drawn from many disciplines that utilize calculus, not a variety of specialized calculus courses for each major. A factor in support of a unified calculus are the figures that show that large numbers of undergraduates change their major a t least once. These changes, aims, and sentiments can he echoed by those involved in chemistry. There is a need t o make chemistry a pump and not a filter. Incorporation of more applications and positive uses of chemistry, as well as integration of modern computer and calculator technology into the undergraduate curriculum are necessary. I t is also necessary to examine topics presently taught and to decide upon their importance and utility. A "Chemistry for a New Century" is needed so that chemistry can survive and prosper in this complex modem society. ,
