In concrete terms, linear algebra is the study of systems of linear equations in several variables. Such systems arise in a vast number of situations in mathematics and other fields, and it is absolutely crucial to understand them as thoroughly and conceptually as possible. The solution set to such a system has a rich geometric structure which is a fundamental part of linear algebra. The concepts of vector and inner product spaces reveal both the geometric and algebraic points of view, and a key theme of the course will be the interplay between the "abstract" linear algebra and the geometric intuition that it expresses. In the end (and in fact even in the beginning) this theme will be more important to us than the algorithmic methods for solving equations covered in math 54. An important goal of the course is for students to learn to read and write mathematical proofs, as well as to become comfortable with the interplay between abstraction and intuition.
There will be weekly assigments, due each Thursday, one or two midterms, as well as some unspecified number of quizzes given at unspecified intervals. The grading will be approximately weighted as follows: 25% homeowrk, 30% midterms, 40% final, 5% quizzes. I try to assign grades as follows:
There will be a graduate student instructor (Alex Diesl) assigned to help answer questions, especially with the homework. His office hours will be:
Wednesday: 10--12, 1-4
Thursday: 8--11, 12--2,
in 891 Evans.
The final examination for our course is Friday, December 12, 5:00--8:00 pm in 219 Dwinelle.
For information on when and how to reach me, see my home page.
You can check my calendar here.
