What is Mathematica?
Mathematica is a powerful global computing environment. Ideal for use in engineering, mathematics, finance, physics, chemistry, biology, and a wide range of other fields, it makes possible a new level of automation in algorithmic computation, interactive manipulation, and dynamic presentation -- as well as a whole new way of interacting with the world of data.
Installing Mathematica
Mathematica is currently installed on all public Windows (PC) labs (see Software Available on Public Computers). This software is also available on Middlebury College's Apporto Virtual Desktops; see Virtual Software with Apporto to learn more.
Mathematica is also available for installation as follows:
- Click the appropriate link above for the installation type you need, then choose Create Account.
- Provide your Middlebury email (format username@middlebury.edu) then request Activation Key.
- Check your email for a link to download the installer.
- Create WolframID then download the installer.
- Run the installer then enter your Activation Key.
Are you interested in installing Mathematica elsewhere? Please submit a Helpdesk ticket with your request details.
Middlebury also has access to Wolfram Products: https://www.wolfram.com/siteinfo/?source=frontpage-site-license
What is Mathematica used for in a university setting?
Mathematica has a tremendous amount of uses, including...
- lecture presentations, writing journal articles, and preparing student lab reports
- individual student projects
- research and writing
See Wolfram's Screencast and Video Gallery for usage ideas and examples.
What are the best steps to start using Mathematica?
If you are new to Mathematica, here are some suggestions on the best ways to get started.
Students
- Watch the "Hands-On Start to Mathematica" tutorial screencast.
- Explore the Learning Center for topics relevant to your interests.
- Launch Mathematica, open the Classroom Assistant, and perform your first few computations.
- You're now ready for the projects that faculty will assign.
Faculty
- Watch the "Overview of Mathematica for Education" video.
- Explore the Learning Center for topics relevant to your interests.
- Find some prebuilt examples and courseware from the Demonstrations Project, MathWorld, and the Library Archive.
- Assign the above steps in the student section to your classes as homework.
- Sign up for the Faculty Program.
- Take other webinars relevant to your work.