Math 249-02: Multivariable Calculus
Spring 2018
Class Meetings: MWF 10:20-11:20 am, Ford 204 Professor McNicholas
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"The tantalizing and compelling pursuit of mathematical problems offers mental absorption, peace of mind amid endless challenges, repose in activity, battle without conflict, `refuge from the goading urgency of contingent happenings,' and the sort of beauty changeless mountains present to sense tried by the present-day kaleidoscope of events." -Morris Kline |
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Office Hours: In addition to times posted on my website, I am also available by appointment. Math Tutoring: Available in the Math Hearth (near the big cube), Ford Hall, 2nd Floor.
Syllabus: http://willamette.edu/~emcnicho/courses/Syllabi/SyllabusMath249MultiS18.pdf WeBWorK site: https://secure.willamette.edu/webwork2/Math249-McNicholas/ |
Multivariable calculus lies in the intersection of three of the most important branches of mathematics: algebra, analysis, and geometry. It demonstrates the elegance and beauty of mathematics, as well as its sublime utility. By extending the concepts of one-variable calculus to higher dimensions, we encounter a variety of new issues and subtleties, many of which require a deep geometric understanding to resolve. Through this course you will: learn vector calculus; strengthen your geometric visualization skills; practice translating between algebraic, analytic, and geometric perspectives; and develop your technical writing skills. In addition to being a course about the power of integrating multiple mathematical perspectives, the second half of the course will be the story of a theorem - an amazing, beautiful theorem which will unify a number of course concepts. Your grade will be based on your level of achievement in each of the following student learning outcomes |
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Tentative Schedule - Subject to Change