MA371 Policies

Course Information

To understand the basics of matrix algebra and linear systems of equations, how to solve systems, the properties solutions possess.
To understand the concept of a "vector space" and its utility in mathematics.
To understand the abstract concept of a "linear transformation" and how it relates to matrices.
To understand the essentials of eigenvalues/vectors, and the singular value decomposition.
To gain additional mastery in writing proofs and explaing mathematics to others.

Exams: For in-class exams your work must be your own, of course, using only the authorized resources stated on the exam cover page. For any take-home exams you must also work individually, and ask for help or clarification only from me! As with in-class exams, use only the resources that are authorized on the exam cover page.
Homework: You are expected/encouraged to collaborate with other students, but when the time comes to write up the homework solutions you should be able to do this on your own with complete understanding.
If you did cooperate significantly with one or more other students please indicate this on the front page of the homework set, problem by problem if necessary, e.g., "I worked with "student A" on problems 3 and 5", "student B" on problem 14".
Do not share "canned" computer files for solving the homework, e.g., if "student A" writes an elaborate Maple worksheet that solves a given homework problem, he/she should not give it to others so they can blindly push buttons and get answers! (I try not assign such problems).
If you can't solve a given problem, just say so. It's OK.
If you're not sure about whether what you're doing for the course is in accordance with the above, ask me!

Check the course web page frequently! All homework will be posted there, as well as additional study info and resources.
Sometimes we'll use the laptop in class (a day per week, maybe); I'll send you an email if you need to bring it.
Homework is due at 5 pm on the due date. One day late is automatic half credit, after that zero!
Homework should be written up neatly (even TeXed if you know how) and all pages stapled.
Make sure it's clear what your answer is, box or highlight it when appropriate.
If you know you're going to be gone on a given day, let me know AHEAD of time. If there's a quiz that day you can make it up ahead of time, not after.
If you miss class YOU are responsible for learning the material you missed. Although you can ask me specific questions about the material (see "Office Hours" below), you cannot ask me to repeat the class for you personally---I have too many students for this to be feasible.
The final grade will be weighted 20 percent for turned in homework and projects, 25 percent for quizzes, 30 percent for midterm exams, and 25 percent for the final.
We'll cover (approximately) all of chapter 1, 2.1, 2.2, chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6. About one class day per section of the book.

Come to office hours if you're confused!
But please come somewhat prepared, having at least read the book and tried the problems. It's not very helpful if you come in and say "I don't understand anything we're doing."
Once your questions are answered, do not sit in my office to finish your work---many other people probably want to see me.
Coming by to talk about math not related to the course (just because it's interesting) is encouraged!

This page last updated November 12, 2011