MATH 121 - Introduction to the Practice of Mathematics

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisites: None
This course is required of all mathematics majors during the first year. It is intended to provide them with basic skills needed for independent studies and undergraduate research projects in mathematics. Among these skills are effective written and oral mathematical communication and basic facility with modern mathematical software. Instruction in written communication will include the craft of mathematical writing, the use of technology (e.g., LATEX) for creation of mathematical text, and readings of level-appropriate mathematics articles in undergraduate journals. Attendance at some departmental seminars will be required and models for effective presentations in professional venues will be discussed. An introduction to computational (e.g., MATLAB) and indexing (e.g., MathSciNet) software that will be of use throughout the four-year curriculum will be provided.

Restrictions: This course is restricted to the first year mathematics majors