Live problem solving via computer in the classroom to avoid "death by Power Point"

The use of live demonstrations in courses related to numerical problem solving combined with PowerPoint presentations is advocated in order to stimulate student interest and involvement and enhance learning. The proposed approach is demonstrated by solving a system of ordinary differential equations as a boundary value problem, utilizing finite difference approximations for solving partial differential equations, and investigating ill-conditioning in multiple linear regression. The educational benefits of this approach are discussed in detail. Comput Appl Eng Educ 17: 285-294, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com);