Math 310 SyllabusSection 1, James Williams Mission. Beyond simply learning some linear algebra, there are two major goals: the capacity for abstract thinking, and the ability to solve vocationally relevant real-world problems. Correspondingly, there are three kinds of of student exercises: simple calculations to reinforce learning; proofs and other theoretical exercises; and realistic problems solved via computer. Website.
http://nutmeg.easternct.edu/~williamsjam Required Tex. Introductory Linear Algebra: an Applied First Course, by Kolman and Hill, 8th edition, © 2005. Prerequisites. MAT 230, MAT 243, MAT 244 Course Content. About half the course is taken up with the text's very long Chapter 1 covering the nuts and bolts of linear equations and matrices. This provides a practical basis for studying many useful applications, as for example, computer graphics and linear economic models. The second half of the course is two tracked. One tract involves group projects allowing students to explore applications of their choosing. The other track continues to develop the mathematics, studying basic operations on matrices and their algebraic properties. This additional information supports the application of linear algebra to a wider range of topics, such as the study of three dimensional vector spaces. See the course schedule for details. Assignments and GradesAttendance: Be present on time for each and every class; bring your completed homework with you. If you must be absent, let me know via e-mail, study the online lecture notes, and go over the material with me or with a class mate. One point will be deducted from your final grade for each unexplained absence, beginning with your fourth. Homework is assigned at the end of each class. It will be discussed in the next class, and will be collected on a random basis. Plan on 5-6 hours of study and homework per week. Failure to do homework will result in your quickly falling behind, perhaps irretrievably. Weekly quizzes are given each week, the day of the week varies. They count 10 points per quiz, with only the 10 best scores counted, for a total of 100 points. Hour exams are tentatively scheduled for February 26, April 9, and May 10. Each of the three hour exams counts 100 points. I do not grade on a curve. There is no opportunity to make up missed exams. However, if you miss an exam for a documented valid reason, the remaining exams will be weighted proportionately more. The final exam is your project presentations. The final counts 100 points; the presentations take place on May 17 from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm. The course grade will be based on the percent score of the 500 point total. How to get helpI encourage you to come see me during my office hours, especially if you are having difficulties with the subject matter. Remember: In mathematics, there is no such thing as a dumb question! If you are a student with a disability and believe you will need accommodations for this class, contact the Office of AccessAbility Services at 465-0189 as soon as possible. Please note that I cannot provide accommodations based upon disability until I have received an accommodation letter. Intellectual Integrity and Personal ConductViolations of academic integrity will be penalized in one of the following ways: repeating an assignment, failing grade on assignment, failing grade in course, and/or student meeting with department chair. There is to be no sharing of information (or calculators) on quizzes and exams. Cell phones and all other audio/video devices must be turned off in class. You are expected to be attentive and respectful of your fellow students while in class. |