MAT194 - Mathematical Sciences Seminar - Spring, 2021

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

MEETING TIME/PLACE: Asynchronous (But I'm thinking of this as a Wednesday course; I'll have each week's agenda out by 8:00 a.m. on Wednesdays.)

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 discuss 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.
• Expand awareness about a variety of specialty areas in the mathematical sciences.

• 20%: Your input in "discussions", which will occur on Canvas.
• 20%: Your summaries of discussions: each week some students will be designated to summarize the discussion for the wiki.
• 20%: You will write one paper on a Mathematical idea (perhaps a journal article).
• 40%: A final "presentation" (which will be presented on-line, on our wiki). Your presentation will be autobiographical, providing in particular your 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 presentation, relevant to your future plans or to your past experiences.

• In order to pass, your total score must be at least 70% of the total possible, and you must complete the paper and presentation.

ATTENDANCE: The student is responsible for all material assigned for class. "Attendance" (as measured by on-line participation in discussions) may be used to resolve borderline grades.

WITHDRAWAL: The last day to withdraw from any class is March 22, 2021. After that day it is not usually permitted.

OFFICE HOURS: (by zoom): Wednesday, 9am. I am also available by appointment, if that hour won't work -- just email me.

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.