Assorted Notes from the Instructor of this Course

Math 1107

CJ Alverson

Kennesaw State University

I have designed this course to require a minimum of mathematics. However, the remaining mathematics is essential.

I assume and require proficiency in the prerequisite mathematics for this course. In this case what is required is the basics in arithmetic, algebraic substitution and basic algebraic operations. You must either currently have, or acquire on your own initiative these basics.

I have minimized the use of the calculator in this course. Even so, you alone are responsible for acquiring and operating an appropriate calculator. Some on-line resources are hyper-linked in the course page. The default calculator is the TI-83.

This course requires a modicum of precise, technical writing. Summaries and sample tests are provided to allow you to learn this writing style. Writing will be a large part of the coursework.

I require proficiency in this class. No curves are employed in the scoring of tests and finals. The only letter grade earned in this course is based on the total performance over all tests and the final. Do not interpret individual scores on tests and finals as letter grades.

In general, I constructed the case studies in order to illustrate examples of statistical computing and thinking. For this reason, it is essential that you show your complete work, including intermediate computational steps and a complete discussion. Failure to provide such will surely result in loss of credit. The correct thinking and work lead naturally to the correct answer(s). The point of the cases is the thinking required to attain them, the final answer(s) are incidental to the process.

I have designed the course in response to the distinct needs and concerns of students who typically take night courses. The course is therefore conducted in a simple, efficient manner with a minimum of required work. I provide guidance and the material to be learned. You must aggressively learn the material as an adult.

Material is divided into case studies. The idea is to learn a few new things in each session, with a minimum of overlap and repetition. I will keep the course moving forward, with a minimum (that is no…) drill. Stay focused on the current material, and keep up.

Students do, on occasion, fail this course.

There are a number of failure modes, but a common mode of failure is a weak grasp of remedial mathematics. You must be able to perform basic arithmetic, algebraic substitution and the like. I do not have the time to review these concepts or to tutor you in them. If your basic mathematics is severely lacking, then get it fixed before you take classes that require said mathematics.

A number of students under-perform due to a lack of detail. I am generally merciless about these things.

A number of students simply take too many courses, or fall behind. This course is carefully planned, and even in a severely demanding schedule, you can plan ahead. Do so.

Use your groups, but do not burden them with your absences, lack of work and other bad things. Contribute to your group. Do enough of your own preparation in order to be a healthy member of your group.

Plan ahead. Keep current in your work. If you stay current, your workload will be steady, but won't pile up. If you fall behind; don't expect me or your group to magically catch you up. You are an adult, and I expect you to take care of yourself.

That's the contract: We're adults here. You work in good faith, and I refrain from any un-necessary academic nonsense. But in exchange, you do your end of the work. And in the end, your letter grade reflects your demonstrated proficiency in the concepts of the course.