Class Meetings: TuTh 5:00-6:50 pm in EMS E170
[Spring break March 16-23; Last class May 8; Final May 13]
Instructor: Allen Bell, EMS E449, 229-4233; e-mail adbell@uwm.edu
Web Page: http://www.uwm.edu/~adbell/ -- then
follow the link for Math 234.
Text and Topics: Differential Equations and Linear Algebra by Farlow, Hall, McDill, and West. The text includes a CD with some programs and examples.
We will cover roughly Chapters 1-6.
Office Hours: TuTh between 3:20 and 4:55; immediately
after class; other times by appointment. You can also talk to me
any time you can find me in my office.
All times are subject to change and to cancellation on some
days due to other duties. I may update this information soon.
Prerequisites: In order to take this class, you must meet the prerequisite: a grade of C or better in Math 232. I will be given a list of students who have definitely satisfied the prerequisite. If your name is not on that list, or if you wish to add the course, you will have to provide me with written proof that you meet the prerequisite or I will drop you from the class.
Grades: Your grade will be based on the examinations, quizzes, homework, and class participation. The grading scale will be determined by the class performance on the exams (i.e., there will be a curve). The final exam grade will count approximately 25-30% of your course grade; the other exams together roughly 55-60%, and the homework and in-class work and participation will make up the remainder.
Exams: There will be an exam after we've finished Chapters 1 and 2, one after we finish Chapter 3, one after we finish Chapter 4, and a final exam. There may be an exam after we finish Chapter 5. I will say more about the exams (dates, length, etc.) as the semester progresses. The final exam will take place on Tuesday, May 13 during the usual class time (5-6:50 pm).
There will be no make-up exams, and the final exam cannot be re-scheduled. If you cannot come to an exam for a very good reason, we may be able to make some kind of arrangement if you let me know in advance: you may call me or leave a message at the Mathematics office, 229-4836.
Homework: The best way to learn the material in this course is to (1) read actively, that is, work things out for yourself as you read, and (2) work as many problems as possible. Using computer software to visualize or check solutions is also valuable.
Most homework will not be collected, but you should work as many problems in the problem sets as you can. You are free to discuss homework among yourselves, except homework that is to be handed in for a grade, but please remember: if you don't do it yourself, you won't learn it.
Other: If you have any special requirements or concerns regarding this course, please let me know as soon as possible. Friday, March 14 is the last day to drop the class (with a W on your transcript) without special approvals.