Reform Differential Equation textbooks I taught Differential Equations once back in 2006, and I am slated to teach it again this Spring.  In 2006, I was assigned used Blanchard, Devaney, Hall, and I really liked this book.  However, I find that it is expensive.
Now I never took Differential Equations myself, and I don't do any kind of applied math.  However, from googling around a bit, I see that this may be what is called "Reform" Differential Equations, and that it emphasizes a qualitative approach. Our SLAC has no engineers, and I suspect that this would serve our students better than Boyce & DiPrima.  (But I have absolutely 0 experience with the traditional approach, so I am going on a hunch).
Does any one here know of other "qualitative" Differential Equations books like Blanchard, Devaney, Hall?  Perhaps even better or less expensive?
Thank you
 A: "Now I never took Differential Equations myself, and I don't do any kind of applied math."


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*I would just beware of your own blind spots.  Not in math logic, but in pedagogy, application, etc.

*I would stick with a simple, mechanical approach to the topic.  It is a very large one.  Even the basic techniques can be difficult to over in a semester.  Let alone approximation, computer use, transforms, etc.  

*I would really just show them the main easy manipulative techniques (emphasis on 2nd order constand coefficient diffyQ, homo and nonhomo, that is everywhere in physics, chemistry, and engineering).  Do a very quick, easy touch on the LaPlace transform (no square waves).  Purpose is just an initial exposure.  If they need it more in future, they learn more later.

*I am partial to the DiffyQ book by Sanchez.  Thin, covers everything, no PDEs.  But if you can't find that, consider Tenenbaum (helps the students wallets).  Skip a lot of the application chapters though.  [I love applications, but there is just not time; plus applications are word problems, thus hard.]  Boyce and DiPrima is OK, but long and expensive.

Good luck!
