The Effectiveness of Using a Web-Based Applet to Teach Concepts of Linear Programming: An Experiment in Active Learning
Christine T. Kydd
Department of Business Administration, Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, chriskyd@udel.edu
Abstract
The graphical solution method to a two-variable linear program (LP) provides valuable insights about the general nature of multivariable linear programming models. As a result, introductory operations research/management science textbooks typically present a graphical solution method to a two-variable LP as a prelude to the presentation of more complex problems. Construction of a two-dimensional feasible region combined with iso-profit (or iso-cost) lines on a blackboard or overhead projector can be tedious, at best. Even with tools such as PowerPoint, that include drawing tools, it is difficult to show students what happens in a graphical LP as constraint lines and iso-profit lines shift around on a graph. To overcome this hurdle, this paper presents a Web-based Java script applet that was used by both instructors and students to graphically illustrate/learn fundamental concepts of LP models. It then describes the results of a study that compares student performance on exams of those who did use the applet versus those who did not. Results show that the students who used the applet to learn about LP concepts performed significantly better than those who did not. Implications for using such active learning techniques and models in the classroom are discussed.
Key words
linear programming; active learning; sensitivity analysis; Web-based applet; linear program graphical solution
History
Received: June 2010; accepted: September 2010.
Download the PDF
Citation Information
Kydd, C. T. 2012. The effectiveness of using a Web-based applet to teach concepts of linear programming: An experiment in active learning. INFORMS Trans. Ed. 12(2) 78–88. Available online at http://ite.pubs.informs.org/.