Ordinary Differential Equations (Math 335)

Instructor: Dr. Scott Sarra
Office Hours: SH 325, MTWR 2:50 to 3:00 and 3:50 to 5:00.
E-mail: sarra@marshall.edu
Web location: http://www.scottsarra.org/math/courses/odes/odes.html
Course Description:  A first course in differential equations.  Topics include linear and nonlinear differential equations, initial value and boundary value problems, methods of solution, modeling, series solutions, the Laplace transform, systems of differential equations, numerical methods, and autonomous systems.

Textbook: Differential Equations: An Introduction to Modern Methods and Applications by J. Brannan and W. Boyce. ISBN: 0471651419.

Course Learning Objectives:  Upon completion of the course the student will understand how real world situations are modeled with differential equations and well as analytical and numerical solution techniques for the models.   The student will be prepared for more advanced study in differential equations.

Credits: 4

Prerequisites: MTH 330 and MTH 231

Grading

In class exams and  projects will be used to determine grades. Final grades will be assigned according to the average as:

90<=x <=100 -> A; 80<=x <90 -> B; 70<=x <80 -> C; 60<=x <70 -> D; x <60 -> F

Homework:

Homework problems will be suggested for the purpose of assisting you in mastering the material and for preparing for exams.  They will not be collected and graded.  Questions on homework problems should be raised at the beginning of class.  Exam questions will be derived from the homework problems. The problems with be listed in odeProblemsSpring2008.txt which will be updated as we advance through the semester.

Makeup exams: 

If you are unable to take an exam due to an excused absence, you must contact me prior to the exam time and furnish the proper written verification of the absence as defined by the MU undergraduate catalog in order to take a make-up exam.  Excused absences, as defined by the MU undergraduate catalog, fall into three categories: (1) university sponsored activities; (2) absences as a result of illness or death in the family; (3) absences resulting from major religious holidays.  Consult the catalog for details. 

Attendance Policy:

Attendance is at your discretion. However, you are responsible for what is covered in class, which at times may be different from the text. Attendance may be used to make borderline grade decisions.

Documented learning disabilities:

Accommodations will be made to assist students with documented learning disabilities.  Students should make arrangements with the Help center to provide the instructor with a notice of accommodation.