MAT194 - Mathematical Sciences Seminar - Spring, 2019
INSTRUCTOR: Andy Long. Office: MEP 443; phone: 572-5794; email: longa@nku.edu
MEETING TIME/PLACE: 10:00-10:50 (W), MEP312
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.
ASSESSMENT: This is a pass/fail course. The requirements to pass the
course are completing all of the following at an acceptable level.
- 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.
- 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.
- The poster itself, worth 8 points.
- A written report/summary of your poster worth a maximum of 4 points.
Your poster will be autobiographical, providing your own answers to three
important questions:
- In what ways have I loved mathematics in the past?
- What do I want to do (and what have I done) with mathematics?
- Why is it important in my life, and to human society?
You will also shine a spotlight on at least one interesting piece of
mathematics as part of your poster.
- 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 25, 2019. After that day it is not usually permitted.
OFFICE HOURS: MF, 10:00-10:50; W, 11:00-noon, TR, 9:00-10:40
and 12:15-1:30. 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.
- 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.
Website maintained by Andy Long.
Comments appreciated.