MAT194 - Mathematical Sciences Seminar - Spring, 2018

INSTRUCTOR: Andy Long. Office: MEP 443; phone: 572-5794; email: longa@nku.edu

MEETING TIME/PLACE: 11:00-11:50 (W), MEP314

CATALOG DESCRIPTION: Introduction to disciplines in mathematical sciences; readings and discussions pertaining to the mathematical sciences. Topics vary.

TEXT: None

GRADING: Pass/Fail

OUTCOMES: This class is designed to give the student opportunities to improve their knowledge of the mathematical sciences in general and to improve the student's ability to read, write, and discuss mathematics and statistics. In this course, students will have the opportunity to:

• Improve the ability to read and discuss mathematics and statistics.
• Improve the ability to actively listen to mathematics and statistics.
• Improve the ability to write about mathematics and statistics.
• Learn about the applications of mathematics and statistics to other disciplines.
• Learn about employment opportunities for people in the mathematical sciences.
• Become acquainted with a wide variety of specialty areas in the mathematical sciences.

• Written reflections on four different attended extracurricular events worth a maximum of 2 points each for a maximum total of 8 points. Appropriate events you can attend will be highlighted, and you should feel free to alert us to other suitable events. Check with me about any event you wonder about.
• Reflections on classroom presentations from 8 visitors worth up to 2 points each for a maximum total of 16 points. These require your attendance (you cannot assess upattended presentations, so cannot receive points for any missed presentations).
• Homework, quizzes, or evaluations worth up to 3 points for a maximum total of 12 points.
• A final poster and presentation worth a maximum of 24 points.
  • A preview of the poster, worth 2 points.
  • The poster itself, worth 8 points.
  • Your presentation of the poster at the class poster session on the last day of class, worth 4 points.
  • Your presentation of the poster at the open poster session on the day of the final, worth 6 points.
  • A written report/summary of your poster worth a maximum of 4 points.
  Your poster will be autobiographical, providing your answers to three questions:
  • In what ways have I loved mathematics?
  • What do I want to do (and what have I done) with mathematics?
  • Why is it important in my life, and to human civilization?
  You will shine a spotlight on at least one interesting piece of mathematics.

• In order to pass, your total score must be at least 70% of the total possible 60 points (you do the math...:) and you must complete the poster and associated presentations.

ATTENDANCE: Attendance and participation is essential in a seminar course like this one.

• If you encounter a difficulty and find yourself late to class, please come in anyway. We would rather have you in class than not. But please try to be on time, especially when we have an outside speaker.
• If a situation arises that requires you to leave class, please politely inform us of your situation before class -- otherwise we'll all think that it was something that we said...:)
• Cellphones, tablets, and laptops or other electronics should not be used. Because there are to be discussions, human to human, no cell phones are allowed in class (as they seem to discourage discussion).

WITHDRAWAL: The last day to withdraw (grade of W) is Monday, March 19, 2018. After that day it is not usually permitted.

OFFICE HOURS: M 11:00-12:00, TR 10:45-12:00, WF 9:00-10:00, F 11:00-12:00. I am also available by appointment, and at random when approached with a smile.

Notes:

• Course homepage: http://www.nku.edu/~longa/classes/mat194/
• Email: When writing an email, please include your full course number (i.e. mat194) in the message.
• If you miss a class, you should get the notes from another student in the class. Of course, if you are missing class for an extended time (such as illness or other serious problem), you should contact me as soon as possible.
• I reserve the right to alter this syllabus if necessary. Any changes will be discussed in class, and all students will be notified.
• If you need accommodations for a physical, psychological, or medical disability please talk with me so that I may do my best to meet your needs.
• The Departmental Syllabus for all Mathematics courses is a part of the syllabus for this course. Additional information concerning Secondary Education Students is available on the Departmental Syllabus.