Brief Course Description

Instructor:
Dr. Yuriy Mileyko
Office: Keller 307
Email:

Office Hours
M,W,F 11:30am-12:30pm
and by appointment

Meeting:
M,W,F 10:30-11:20am
Keller 313


The broad goal of the course is introducting algorithms for solving mathematics problems. In particular, numerical solutions of linear/nonlinear systems of equations and differential equations will be studied. The focus of this course is on practical computations, and it will serve as a basic introduction to programming for numerical analysis using Octave/Matlab.

Homework

Homework problems will be assigned approximately once in two weeks. Of course, students are encouraged to try to solve additional problems from the textbook, not just the ones they have to submit. The assigned exercises for each lecture will be listed on the Course Work page.

Working together in groups on homework is strongly encouraged! You will find that the people you are working with either (1) understand something you don't, in which case they can explain it to you; (2) understand something that you do understand, but from a different point of view -- these additional perspectives can prove to be very useful; or (3), don't understand something that you do understand -- in which case you have the opportunity to explain it to them... I think you will find that in the process of explaining something you often achieve a better understanding yourself.

Of course, it goes without saying that even though you may work in groups, the homework you turn in must be your own work. You may share ideas, perspectives, approaches to problems, but copying is not allowed. Furthermore, keep in mind that the homeworks are primarily a learning tool. Do not deprive yourself of this invaluable learning opportunity!

Help outside of Class

You are strongly encouraged to email the me or see me during office hours if you have questions about the material or the homework. If you would like to meet but cannot make it to the office hours just send an email to set up an appointment.

Exams

There will be a midterm exam and a comprehensive final exam. The dates of the exams can be found on the Course Work page. The midterm exam will include problems from all the topics covered in class by that time. The final exams may include all the topics covered in class during the semester.

I will decide on open book/notes later in the semester.

No make-up exams will be given. In the case of a legitimate absence at the midterm exam I will weigh the final exam more heavily to make up for the difference.

Grading

Your course grade will consist of the following components:

Homework: 30%
Midterm Exam: 30%
Final Exam: 40%

Tentatively, I will use the standard scale to determine the letter grade (A: 90 - 100%; B: 80 - 90% ; C: 65 - 80%; D: 55 - 65%) with plus or minus grades assigned appropriately. However, the final letter grade may be determined using curved grading. That is, the cutoffs for assigning letter grades may be based on the distribution of student scores.

Academic Integrity

The integrity of a university depends upon academic honesty, which consists of independent learning and research. Academic dishonesty includes cheating and plagiarism,and these actions will not be tolerated in our community.