Syllabus for Course of Instruction

I. Basic Information of the Course

MAT 315: Linear Algebra,

3 semester hour’s credit

Prerequisites: MAT 212

II. Course Instructor

Instructor: Mr. Dwayne Jennings

Office: C-51

Telephone: 731-661-5273

III. Primary Objectives of the course

Students should be able to

· Develop connections between linear systems, matrices and linear transformations.

· Develop computational skills with linear systems, matrices and determinants by hand and with computer assistance.

· Recall and apply the definition and concept of a vector space to verify theoretical properties of vector spaces.

· Recall and apply the definition and concept of a linear transformation to establish connections between vector spaces.

· Solve eigenvalue problems.

· Communicate the ideas of linear algebra verbally and in writing.

· Use Mathematica to assist in solving applied problems from linear algebra.

· Develop an appreciation for the many applications of linear transformations that are studied in linear algebra.

IV. Method of Instruction

The course will be taught by using a lecture-demonstration-discussion method. Students will be expected to read the text. Students will be encouraged to: remember, not just memorize; communicate ideas in one’s own words; think in general terms and connect ideas.

V. Required Text and Supplies

Elementary Linear Algebra (5th Ed.) by Larson and Edwards

VI. Assigned Readings and Research:

TBA.

VII. Special Projects and / or Activities

Students will be expected to complete a number of special projects in Linear Algebra using the

Computer Algebra System Mathematica. Some of these projects will be collected and graded. Special projects and activities will vary depending upon the availability of appropriate computer software and hardware resources for the course.

VIII. Method of Evaluation

Several homework checks on both computer lab and pencil and paper techniques will be performed. A small number of daily quizzes will be given in addition to unit tests. Generally major unit tests together with the final exam will comprise approximately 75% of the total points; computer lab work, daily homework checks and quizzes will comprise approximately 25% of the total points in the course. The final grade will be determined by the ratio of (points earned)/(points possible) and using the published grading scale at Union University.

IX. Attendance Policy

Regular and successive attendance is expected of all students. If circumstances should prohibit you from attending class, your situation (reason for absence, make-up work, etc.) will be handled on an individual basis. In order to promote regular class attendance, ten point quizzes will be given and a periodic check of attendance will be made. Any student who misses class an excessive number of times will be reported to the Academic Center. Any student who misses a unit test must bring a written explanation of the reason for the absence and appropriate supporting documents (for example, a note from a physician). Any student who will be missing class for a school sponsored activity must ask about work that will be assigned during the absence before the absence.

X. Statement on Cheating and Plagiarism

Cheating of any type will not be tolerated. If a professor observes cheating by a student, the student will receive a zero and will be reported to the Office of the Provost.

XI. The Last Day to Drop the Course without the special permission of the Registrar is Thursday, January 10, 2008.

XII. Special Graduate Requirements: (Not Applicable)

XIII. Other

Outline of the Course

Topics selected form the following (with appropriate assignments)

Will be covered:

· Systems of Linear Equations

· Matrices

· Determinants

· Vector Spaces

· Inner Product Spaces

· Linear Transformations

· Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors

XIV. General

This syllabus is intended to serve as a general student guide to study this course, and to give general information relative to the "mechanics" of the course. It is not a contract.