Math 103

Introduction to Contemporary Mathematics

Bob Matthews

Department of Mathematics and Computer Science

January 2012


Administrivia:

 

Catalog Description:

This course provides an introduction to contemporary mathematics and its applications. It may include topics from management science, statistics, social choice, the geometry of size and shape, and mathematics for computer science. These topics are chosen for their basic mathematical importance and for the critical role their application plays in a person's economic, political, and personal life. This course is designed to be accessible even to students with a minimal background in mathematics. This course is not designed to prepare students for further work in mathematics; however, it is an ideal course to take to meet the core. No credit will be given for MATH 103 if the student has prior credit for another mathematics course above the level of intermediate algebra. This course is not intended for freshmen.

 

Prerequisite: One year of high school mathematics. Satisfies the Mathematical Approaches core requirement.

 

Evaluation:

I intend to evaluate student work as follows:

 

A note on participation

Participation in class is important, and regular attendance and participation is expected.  Excessive absences will result in a reduced grade, and, in extreme cases, will result in the student's removal from the class.

 

A Note on Classroom Emergency Response Guidance:

    Faculty have been asked to insert the following in course syllabi:


Please review university emergency preparedness and response procedures posted at www.pugetsound.edu/emergency/.  There is a link on the university home page.  Familiarize yourself with hall exit doors and the designated gathering area for your class and laboratory buildings. 

If building evacuation becomes necessary (e.g. earthquake), meet your instructor at the designated gathering area so she/he can account for your presence.  Then wait for further instructions.  Do not return to the building or classroom until advised by a university emergency response representative.

If confronted by an act of violence, be prepared to make quick decisions to protect your safety.  Flee the area by running away from the source of danger if you can safely do so.  If this is not possible, shelter in place by securing classroom or lab doors and windows, closing blinds, and turning off room lights.  Stay low, away from doors and windows, and as close to the interior hallway walls as possible.  Wait for further instructions.

 

A note on withdrawal dates:  (copied from the Academic Handbook)

 

Other Notes: