Previous research explicates ordinal and disordinal interactions through the concept of the "crossover point." This point is determined via simple regression models of a focal predictor at specific moderator values and signifies the intersection of these models. An interaction effect is labeled as disordinal (or ordinal) when the…

The historic total global human population dataset is available on Wikipedia and provides an opportunity for modelling with simple models such as the exponential and logistic differential equations for population. Using the per-capita population growth rate (PPGR) predicted by these two models and estimated PPGR from the data, we are able to…

We adapt the Lanchester combat model to represent conflict between vampires and humans. It is assumed that vampires attack humans during the hours of darkness whilst humans attack vampires during the hours of light. The right-hand side of the differential equation model therefore depends upon the hour of the day. A key insight is that to answer…

Post-instrument covariates are often included as controls in instrumental variable (IV) analyses to address a violation of the exclusion restriction. However, we show that such analyses are subject to biases unless strong assumptions hold. Using linear constant-effects models, we present asymptotic bias formulas for three estimators (with and…

Discrete time models, one linear and one non-linear, are investigated, both with a herbivore species that consumes a basal food source species. Results are presented for coexistence of the species and to illustrate chaotic behaviour as parameters are varied in the non-linear model. The results indicate the benefit of fertilization in terms of the…

The COVID-19 pandemic, like past historical events such as the Vietnam War or 9/11, will shape a generation. Mathematics educators can seize this unprecedented opportunity to teach the principles of mathematical modeling in epidemiology. Compartmental epidemiological models, such as the SIR (susceptible-infected-recovered), are widely used by…

Partially automated assessment is implemented via the 'Printable worksheet' mode in the Numbas e-assessment system to create a mathematical modelling worksheet which is individualised with random parameters but completed and marked as if it were a non-automated piece of coursework, preserving validity while reducing the risk of academic misconduct…

The hanging rope problem is considered. The rope is subject to rotation with the rotation axis being parallel to the rope. Using a continuum model and the basic principles of dynamics, the differential equation governing the motion is derived. The dynamic equilibrium case without vibrational motion is assumed in deriving the equation. The equation…

The following study shows how reparameterizations and constraints of the general linear model can serve to parse quantitative and qualitative aspects of predictors. We demonstrate three different approaches. The study uses data from the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 on mathematics course-taking and achievement as an example. Results show…

The logistic differential equation is ubiquitous in calculus and differential equations textbooks. If the model is developed from first principles in these courses, it is usually done in an abstract mathematical way, rather than in one based in ecology. In this short note, we look at examples of how the model is derived in mathematical texts and…

Cybersex is the use of the Internet and its services to achieve sexual arousal and pleasure. This use, however, can become excessive and uncontrolled. Common consequences of a problematic engagement in online sexual activities are the deterioration of real-life romantic relationships and the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions, even in young…

A process is proposed to create the one-dimensional expected item characteristic curve (ICC) and test characteristic curve (TCC) for each trait in multidimensional forced-choice questionnaires based on the Rank-2PL (two-parameter logistic) item response theory models for forced-choice items with two or three statements. Some examples of ICC and…

Mathematical modelling and modelling activities are important for making sense of mathematical concepts in different extracurricular and daily life contexts. However, teachers may have difficulties in designing these activities in a way to establish meaningful relationships with real life, in accordance with the modeling process and the objectives…

Nowadays, it is essential to promote an interdisciplinary approach in classrooms, integrating disciplines such as biology and mathematics. This necessitates familiarity with specific problem-solving practices employed by the expert community, such as mathematical modelling. This perspective piece explores a mathematical modelling practice to…

This paper describes a teaching experiment in a Numerical Methods course for Master of Science students. The experiment uses scientific papers to develop modelling studies in the context of wine fermentation microbial interactions. The course involves theoretical and laboratory classes that focus on implementing numerical methods using Matlab for…