Not offered 2007-2008
MATH 180 The Art of Mathematical Thinking: An Introduction to the Beauty and Power of Mathematical Ideas (Q)
What is mathematics? How can it enrich and improve your life? What do mathematicians think about and how do they go about tackling challenging questions? Most people envision mathematicians as people who solve equations or perform arithmetic. In fact, mathematics is an artistic endeavor which requires both imagination and creativity. In this course, we will experience what this is all about by discovering various beautiful branches of mathematics while learning life lessons that will have a positive impact on our lives. There are two meta- goals for this course: (1) a better perspective into mathematics, and (2) sharper analytical reasoning to solve problems (both mathematical and nonmathematical).
Format: lecture/discussion. Evaluation will be based primarily on projects, homework assignments, and exams.
Prerequisites: Mathematics 100/101/102 (or demonstrated proficiency on a diagnostic test- see Mathematics 100) or permission of instructor. Enrollment limit: 50 (expected: 50). Not open to students who have taken mathematics courses other than Mathematics 100, 101, 102, 103, 170, Statistics 101 without permission of the instructor.

BURGER