Math 21501 Course Introduction

Math 21501 Course Introduction Notes

Class Structure and Communication

  • Introduction and Group Formation

    • Confirm if all students are in the correct group.

  • Office Hours and Availability

    • Professor's office location: Bowman 219 (2nd Floor, past the printer).
    • Office hours:
    • Mondays:
      • In office.
    • Tuesdays:
      • 11 AM - 12:30 PM at Berkman Center.
      • 12:30 PM - 2 PM back in the office.
      • Coding class afterward in Shapi GNX 102.
    • Wednesdays:
      • 2 PM - 3 PM in office.
    • Thursdays:
      • No office hours, virtual meetings possible upon email request.
      • Quick email response time within 24 hours.

  • Addressing Concerns

    • Students fearful of statistics encouraged to visit:
    • Burton Center (located in the basement of the library) for tutoring assistance.

Syllabus Overview

  • Course Expectations

    • Emphasis on the importance of the syllabus; students encouraged to download and save it.

  • Course Title and Description

    • Course is primarily an introduction to statistics, no prior knowledge expected.
    • Prerequisite: Completion of MAT 112 or a prerequisite placement.
    • Credits: 3 credit hour class; work outside class expected.

  • Understanding Credit Hours

    • For every 1 hour in class (50 minutes), students should dedicate 2-3 hours outside of class.
    • Typically, students spend 5-9 hours weekly on work outside class.

  • Key Dates

    • Last day to withdraw without a failing grade: March 20.
    • Midterm assessment date and feedback scheduling.

Grading System

  • Breakdown

    • Homework: 28% of overall grade.
    • Chapter investigations: 25% of overall grade.
    • Exams: 30% of overall grade.
    • Semester project: 25% of overall grade.

  • Homeworks

    • Unlimited attempts allowed for each homework question.
    • Due one week after completing the corresponding chapter investigation.

  • Chapter Investigations

    • Real-world application of lecture topics, focusing on data collection.
    • Group work (2-4 people) recommended for skill-building.

Attendance and Participation

  • Attendance Policy

    • Attendance directly impacts final grade through extra credit system:
    • 3 extra credit points awarded at the start, lost with each unexcused absence.
    • Excused absences defined (college activities, medical documentation required).

  • Mental Health Days

    • Encouraged to take a day off if needed, but communication is recommended.

Late Work and Technology Policy

  • Late Assignment Policy

    • No late submissions accepted unless negotiated at least 24 hours in advance.

  • Technology Usage

    • Use of laptops for notes and online resources encouraged.
    • Open-note exams permitted; must show devices before use.
    • Calculators not required but TI-84 permissible if owned.
    • Excel necessary for calculations, available through Microsoft access provided by tuition.

AI Use in Coursework

  • AI Policy
    • AI tools can assist with specific projects as defined but are prohibited for homework.
    • Strict penalties for academic dishonesty involving AI use for homework.

Additional Resources and Support

  • Textbook Access

    • Online textbook provided via Pearson; registration required before deadline for incentive.

  • Midterm and Final Exams

    • Midterm: covers substantial content and occurs over two days; open note.
    • Final exam scheduled for May 2, 3 PM; attendance mandatory.

Final Remarks and Questions

  • Communication and Engagement Encouraged

    • Be actively involved during classes; professor open to discussion.
    • Emphasis on keeping a supportive classroom environment.

  • Course Engagement Exercise

    • Students instructed to form small groups and share communication details as a way to build rapport and community in the class.