Math 481 Introduction to Mathematical Software: Matlab and LaTeX

Instructor: Dr. Scott Sarra

Class Info: MW 5:00-6:15, ML 122

Office Hours: MW 2:30 to 5:00, SH 325

E-mail: sarra@marshall.edu

course web: http://www.scottsarra.org/math/courses/nla/indexNA.html

Books:

MATLAB: An Introduction with Applications 2nd Edition, ISBN 0471694207
Learning LaTeX, ISBN 0898713838

Software:

Matlab is installed on all computers with the university image. A student version is available for purchase.
MikTeX is a free LaTeX distribution for Windows.
WinEdt is a LaTeX editor that is available to students for $30.

Course Descriptions/Learning Objectives:

The course will introduce two software packages that are commonly used in Mathematics. The first is the Mathematical Typesetting language LaTeX. After learning the basics of typesetting mathematics with LaTeX the class will show how to:

produce a paper with images and a bibliography
make a slide show
make a poster
format a thesis

The programming language Matlab will be the second program that is introduced. Matlab is known as the "language of scientific and technical computing". The class will be project oriented and each student will use Matlab and LaTeX to write up and present the projects.

Prerequisites: Calculus 1.

Grading: Grades will be based on hand in assigments, projects, and attendance. 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

Submitting Homework and Projects:

All material should be submitted via a zip file email attachment with the name hw#_StudentName.zip to sarra@marshall.edu

Academic integrity:

Homework or projects may be group or individual. On individual work, you are expected and encouraged to discuss problems with others. However, the work you turn in must be completely your own. Sharing or copying will be penalized. For group work, one solution should be turned in representing the combined efforts of the group.

Due dates/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. Extensions for homework and projects must be made in advance of the due date.

Documented learning disabilities:

Accomodations 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 accomodation.