Teaching Calculus with Real-World Impact: A Problem-Based Approach Using EV Battery Optimization

Authors

  • Anitha N Department of Mathematics, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore
  • Marudhachalam R Department of Mathematics, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.16920/jeet/2026/v39is2/26038

Keywords:

Active learning; battery performance analysis; problem-based learning; student-centered learning; sustainable engineering education; teaching multivariable calculus

Abstract

The proposed study identifies a new pedagogical approach to teach engineering mathematics within an environment of problem-based learning that could be applied to improve electric vehicle (EV) battery optimization. Mathematical pedagogy in modern contexts does not often give clear evidence of the direct application of multivariate calculus to real-world engineering systems, making it a source of a lack of contextual relevance and practical learning in first year learners. The module was developed with the idea of allowing first-year engineering students in the various disciplines of Aeronautical, Automobile, Civil, Mechanical and Mechatronics engineering to apply advanced methods of calculus in the study of the effect of battery temperatures and charging regimes on battery life, using partial derivatives, Taylor series and Lagrange multipliers. The choice of the optimization of the electric-vehicle battery as the context to be applied can be seen as the reflection of the modern trends in engineering, sustainability, and the acquaintance of the students with the new technologies. That same module was applied to a cohort of 62 students who later on were examined with the help of a post-test focusing on the same concepts. Remarkable increase in the mean score was found (27 %, p < 0.01). Moreover, 85 % of the respondents indicated increased interest to the module compared to traditional classroom teaching. A strategic combination between mathematical theory and two applied domains, namely, emerging electric-vehicle technology and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 13 on energy and climate action, is unique to the proposed module. In this way, it can be said that the curriculum arms students not only with material technical skills but also with an improved understanding of how mathematical modelling connects to sustainability-oriented engineering decisions. Interpretation of the data results indicates that the model can be easily generalized to the pedagogical treatment of other environmentally friendly technologies, including installation of renewable-energy systems and management of smart grids. More recent partnerships between the industry players also aim at improving the method, and the ultimate goal is to create graduates of engineering degrees that show aptitude in theoretical mathematical level alongside practical problem-solving skills.

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Published

2026-02-18

How to Cite

N, A., & R, M. (2026). Teaching Calculus with Real-World Impact: A Problem-Based Approach Using EV Battery Optimization. Journal of Engineering Education Transformations, 39(Special Issue 2), 303–312. https://doi.org/10.16920/jeet/2026/v39is2/26038

Issue

Volume 39, Special Issue 2, January 2026

Section

Articles
Crossref
Scopus
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Europe PMC

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