• 1701-115 Contemporary Math
• Professor: Dr. Abera Abay, Office: 228M (2nd floor, Robinson Hall), Tel. 256-4500 Ext. 3878
• E-mail: abay@rowan.edu

Syllabus: This course is designed to develop an appreciation of what mathematics is and how it is used today. Topics covered include: statistics and probability; graphs, trees and algorithms; geometrical perspectives including transformations, symmetry, and similarity; and the mathematics of social choice. Students are expected to have completed equivalents of Basic Algebra and Basic Skills Reading. We will cover the following chapters from the textbook.

1) Part four: Statistics: chapters 13 to 16
2) Part two: Management science: chapters 5 to 8
3) Part one: The mathematics of voting: chapters 1 to 4

Objectives: First, the course aims to develop the problem solving and critical thinking skills of students. Second, it expands the students' understanding of and appreciation for contemporary mathematics and its uses. Third, the course helps student to understand both continuous and discrete applications of mathematics, highlighting some of the more recent developments in mathematics. Finally, the course aims to improve students' mathematical and computer skills, particularly through the use of computational and computer-related algorithms.

Textbook: Tannenbaum, and Arnold, Excursions in Modern Mathematics, 6th edition, Prentice Hall.

Grading Policy:

Students will be graded based on the following:

• Attendance and class participation (10%)
• Three tests (90%) that cover the following chapters and sections from the textbook.

Test 1: Chapters 13 to 16
Test 2: Chapters 5 to 8
Test 3: Chapters 1 to 4

Numerical grades will be converted to letter grades by the following scale.
A = 90 to 100, B = 80 to 89, C = 70 to 79, D = 60 to 69, F = 0 to 59

Please note that this course has no pass/no credit option.

Homework Problems: A list of homework problems is attached. You are expected to do these problems after we cover a given section.

Attendance Policy:

Attendance is mandatory. An attendance sheet will be passed around at the beginning of each class period. Please write your signature next to your printed name on the list. If you are absent/tardy from a class, you must submit a note requesting that the absence/tardiness be excused by the next class meeting. Each student is allowed a total of three unexcused absences/tardies (combined). If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to study the section(s) covered and do the homework.

If you are absent the day of a regularly scheduled test, a grade of zero is automatically recorded as your test score. You will be permitted to make up this zero only when you can confirm that you were absent for reasons beyond your control. In such cases, you must telephone 256-4500 extension 3878 (or send me an e-mail) and leave a message including your name and telephone number, the reason for your absence and the date you anticipate returning. Students who fail to leave the above information will be assigned the grade of zero for that test.

Academic Honesty: Cheating on a test or assignment seriously undermines the integrity of the academic system and will not be tolerated. If I determine that a student has cheated, I will assign the grade of F for this course and send a letter to this effect to his advisor. Although a student is not cheating, he or she is expected to refrain from actions that could be suspicious. Using common sense on your part should avoid unnecessary embarrassment.

Classroom rules:

• Students will abide by Rowan's student code of conduct and policy on academic honesty. Improper behavior will not be tolerated.
• Students are not permitted to leave the classroom during class period except for emergencies or unless prior arrangements have been made with the instructor. Please use the restrooms before class begins.
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Students with Disabilities and Special Needs: Please speak with me as early in the semester as possible so that we can make appropriate accommodations for you. If necessary, you can also contact the Office of Special Services.
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Questions in Class: The best time to ask questions is during class. Many times students fear that their questions will seem foolish, while in fact, many others also have the same question. I urge you to ask your questions during class. If you have questions that were not answered in class, you may stop by my office during the following office hours.
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Office Hours: M, W: 10:50 – 12:05 p.m.; T 12:15-1:30 p.m. and by appointment.