CAS and real life problems to learn basic concepts in Linear Algebra course

In this paper we examine the effect of the use of a Computer Algebra System (CAS) to solve interdisciplinary problems. We have been working for some years in the application of mathematics to different engineering problems, the main reason was to improve the motivation of our students and to make possible for them to connect and apply what they learn in Linear Algebra class to other engineering subjects. We describe a case study with students of Electromechanical and Mechanical Engineering from the Coimbra Institute of Engineering and from Geological and Industrial Engineering students from the University of Salamanca in a Linear Algebra course. The study involves the application of digital image processing to develop the basic skills of Linear Algebra. Furthermore, we include the results of a pre-test and post-test control group study using that application in the classroom. The results indicate that the experiences were very enriching for the students in different subjects. We tested at different centers from two different countries with similar results. (c) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 23:567-577, 2015; View this article online at ; DOI