Course Catalog

MAT110E Finite Mathematics (3 credits) 9676

COURSE DESCRIPTION
A study of selected topics from set theory, matrices, systems of linear equations and inequalities, linear programming, counting and probability, statistics, and mathematics of finance.

COURSE OBJECTIVES
The main objective of this course is for the student to gain an understanding of the basic principles of finite mathematics. Specifically, the student should:

• Be familiar with the formula and graph of a linear equation
• Be able to use linear functions and equations in applications, particularly the application of least squares
• Be able to perform the operations of addition, multiplication, and inverse in regards to matrices
• Be able to solve linear systems of equations using the Echelon and Gauss-Jordan Methods
• Be able to use matrices to represent and solve real world applications
• Be able to graph linear inequalities
• Be able to solve linear programming problems using both the graphical and simplex methods
• Understand the basic formulas in the mathematics of finance including simple and compound interest, future and present value of an annuity, and amortization
• Learn the basic components of logic including statements, truth tables, and conditional statements
• Be able to analyze arguments and proofs using logical structures
• Be familiar with the basic ideas of set theory and Venn diagrams
• Understand the basic ideas of probability including conditional probability and Bayes’ theorem
• Learn the basic techniques of counting and how theses techniques can be applied to problems in probability
• Gain an understanding of the basic ideas in statistics
• Learn the basic principles of Markov chains including regular and absorbing Markov chains
• Understand some basic principles of game theory, including how linear programming can be used in game theory

REQUIRED TEXTS AND MATERIALS
This course will be completed entirely online via an online textbook and homework system. Students need to purchase a MyMathLab account at www.coursecompass.com. The course ID is kilty77022. This website is where you will need to login (after purchasing your account) in order to complete your coursework. Your account will gain you access to all of the required homework and exams, and an electronic version of the textbook, as well as supplemental resources.

Unfortunately, this course is not located in Taylor University’s Blackboard system although I will keep a relatively current copy of your grades posted here. I recognize that this situation is not ideal and can occasionally provide some inconvenience for the student. However, I believe that the benefits of using the MyMathLab program far outweigh the possible inconveniences. Because this system is not managed by Taylor University students will not be able to obtain technical support from the university, but must deal with technical issues by contacting the website technical support team. You have two options here: you may call 1-800-677-6337 (M-F 8-8 EST, Sunday 5PM-12AM EST) or login to CourseCompass and click on the NeedHelp? Area located in the upper right corner of your screen and click on the Customer Technical Support Link. I will also be available to help with these technical issues to the best of my availability.

In order for MyMathLab to work properly on your computer you must have the newest version of Macromedia Flash Player installed on your computer. The MyMathLab program should prompt you to install the required version of the Flash player if you do not already have it installed. You should be able to use MyMathLab in Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and Safari.

To purchase textbooks, click here - AMAZON.com
 

INTEGRATION OF FAITH AND LEARNING
Mathematics is a very structured discipline with logic at its core. Studying mathematics helps one to learn how to think critically about the world around them and about their faith. Furthermore, in this course you will write a short paper exploring the relationship between mathematics and our faith in God.

LEARNING DOCUMENTATION
To determine if the course objectives have been met students will regularly submit online homework assignments covering problems addressed in the corresponding lesson. Students will also take periodic exams to reinforce the skills that we to have been acquired. A cumulative final exam will demonstrate the students understanding of the concepts learned in this course. Finally, the students will also take the mathematics proficiency exam (if needed) which will serve as evidence that the student has learned the basic mathematical tools needed to succeed in higher education and in the workforce.

LEARNING EVALUATION
The assignments will be weighted as follows:

Homework 40%
Exams 50%
Paper 10%

The following standard grading scale will be used to assign final grades:

Percentage Letter Grade
100-93 A
92-90 A-
89-88 B+
87-82 B
81-80 B-
79-78 C+
77-72 C
71-70 C-
69-68 D+
67-62 D
61-60 D-
Below 60 F