A novel method for calculating the convolution sum of two finite length sequences

Some students find convolution difficult to understand and compute when first learning. This paper presents a direct method of computing the discrete linear convolution of two finite length sequences. The approach is easy to learn because of the similarities to computing the multiplication of two numbers by a pencil and paper calculation. This method allows students to quickly verify their answers obtained by graphical convolution or from a computer program and easily extends to deconvolution and circular convolution as shown in this paper. When this convolution method was taught in a discrete signals and systems course, the students' understanding of convolution significantly improved.