Teaching Computation with MATLAB

Content on these pages is derived from participant presentations, discussions, and breakout groups at the Teaching Computation with MATLAB workshops.

Computation is the use of computers to perform calculations, model data, make predictions, and test hypotheses. Computational skills are necessary to employ quantitative methods in complex scientific contexts and with large data sets. With today's unprecedented data availability there are numerous new science and engineering opportunities if one has the necessary computational skills. Developing these skills requires students to be comfortable with languages and tools such as MATLAB that enable them to express and explore solutions to scientific problems.

In order to provide students with the computational skills they need to be successful, the teaching of computation must change to reflect the changing landscape of computation. Teaching Computation in the Sciences Using MATLAB provides resources to help educators incorporate computation into their classrooms and engage with a community of educators interested in improving the teaching of these important skills.

Why teach computation? Explore the teaching materials »

Participate in the 2026 Educator Workshop: October 25-27

Now in its 12th year, the Teaching Computation with MATLAB workshop brings together educators to learn about trends in teaching, share experiences, and develop curriculum that improves student learning. The workshop program combines training sessions introducing teaching tools, brief talks by experienced educator peers, and group breakouts. Educators will spend dedicated work-time developing course curriculum.

Learn more and apply to participate by June 15, 2026 »

Looking for opportunities to discuss teaching computation and programming with MATLAB? Join the email list to receive timely updates.

Approaches to Teaching Computation with MATLAB

MATLAB is useful tool for teaching computation because it allows for robust data analysis, data visualization and exploration, modeling, and working with real data sets. If the use of MATLAB is scaffolded in a course or curriculum, it is a tool that can help students develop computational skills and build self-efficacy. When combined with collaborative learning techniques and effective assessments, MATLAB can be an effective and powerful tool for teaching computation.

Computational Skills and Techniques

Computational ThinkingData AnalysisModelingVisualization


Strategies for Teaching Computation

Building Self-EfficacyCooperative LearningAssessmentDeveloping Skills Within a Degree CurriculumTeaching Online


Teaching Materials

Discover activities, essays, and course descriptions submitted by educators who teach with MATLAB. Use the search bar or explore the individual collections below.

Activities Collection

MATLAB based activities, laboratory exercises, projects, and other assignments.

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Essays Collection

Educator perspectives on how teaching with MATLAB can enhance learning.

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Courses Collection

Course descriptions and syllabi for STEM courses on (or that integrate) MATLAB.

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Get Involved

In addition to hosting resources developed by educators for educators, Teaching Computation in the Sciences Using MATLAB is a growing community of faculty in STEM fields interesting in improving computation in teaching. Get involved by participating in events or joining the community discussion.

Workshops and Webinars

Participate in professional development events aimed at improving the teaching of computation. Workshops and webinars provide spaces for experienced educators to share their ideas and opportunities for those just getting started to gain expertise.

Join the Community

Join a community of educators interested in teaching computation with MATLAB. Whether you're just getting started or have been teaching with MATLAB for years, you can ask questions, share experience, and receive updates about upcoming events.