At 25, Michel Seck already teaches mathematics at the Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar. His specialties: coding, cryptology, algebra and applications. But that’s not what makes him the most famous. The young doctoral student designed SimulaMath, a simulation and computation software that decomplexes the teaching of mathematics.
Until now, African countries had no choice. They were almost forced to use software made in France, which according to some users, is far from the realities and concerns of African countries: “Geogebra”. And it is on this point that the author, Michel Seck, presents the new product, named “Simula” as a revolution in the field of mathematics.
Revolution
The functions of this software are various. According to the designer, Simula, can do analysis, linear algebra, Groebner bases, number theory, 2D and 3D graphs, probability. But not only. The application is able to also process statistics, arithmetic networks and correcting codes.
According to the author, Simula has nearly 120,000 lines of code. “It allows to do directly exercises of statistics, calculation of the limits and computations of great powers”, introduces Michel Seck who is a specialist of “cryptography, algebra and its applications”. At Cheik Anta Diop University, Prof Sow prides himself. “It’s a big innovation in Africa. To my knowledge, this is the first software designed in Africa. It allows you to simulate and do mathematics online, “he said.
In designing his application, Michel Seck had one main ambition: to find a solution to the problem of access to ICT for the greatest number of learners and teachers. “I had to go to university to use software to do mathematics. I want this software to be freely accessible, used in high schools as well as in universities. Thus, it can be used from secondary to university level, “he wishes.
Indeed, Michel Seck first cataloged the various difficulties related to mathematics education in Senegal. He then deduced that these constraints have not favored the simplification of the exchange of knowledge in this field. This is why, he thinks through its application, encourage many young people to enroll in science, especially mathematics. We will understand why, unlike other software, the user will not need training to use Simula.
Adoption
In Senegal, the process leading to the authorization of the new product in schools has been initiated. An agreement in principle has already been reached with the National Committee for Mathematics Education. If the process succeeds early, the tool will be introduced into teaching from this year.
“So far, there is no practical work (TP) in mathematics in universities. However TPs are organized in France. Today, this software makes it possible to organize TPs. We plan to introduce the TP in License 1, License 2 and License 3 to the Faculty of Science and Technology, “says the designer. This software that the manufacturer wants as an improved calculator may soon be accepted everywhere.
Simula is free and its designer ensures that it will remain so.
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