An inroduction to the guiding principles in mathematical modeling teaching

The article attempts to summarize the principal guidelines in the teaching of Mathematical Modeling by means of an analysis of its teaching process and a contrastive study between Mathematical Modeling teaching and conventional mathematical teaching. Mathematical Modeling teaching should be student-centered, problem-oriented and rely on computer as teaching aid. It should also help to foster students' ability to solve practical problems with the mathematical knowledge they have acquired and the ability to carry out mathematical research though problem solving. Also, the teaching should enhance students' understanding of mathematical concepts and formula and reflects the relationship between mathematics and practice and that between theory and application.