Workshops on Efficient Use of Scientific Computing.

Abstract : Two 2-day workshops were held. These concentrated on MATLAB, which is a high-level computer language for scientific and engineering calculations. It is extremely useful for many exploratory investigations, and for problems that need efficient use of matrices. Some of the advantages of MATLAB over lower- level languages like FORTRAN are: (1) The essentials can be learned very easily - one day; (2) Programs tend to be short, easy to write and read; (3) MATLAB is interactive, which makes it easy to debug and make changes in programs; (4) Excellent, easy-to-use graphics; and (5) Tedious aspects of lower-level languages are eliminated.