Course Description and Expectations:
     Though many of you may have seen and manipulated a matrix before, prior experience is not assumed. This is a first course in Linear Algebra. The prerequisite is some college calculus. This provides you with the mathematical maturity you will need to parse, grasp, and apply the mathematical definitions and theorems that you will encounter in this course. The scope of linear algebra in mathematics, engineering, computer science, and data analysis is universal. This is probably the first math class you will take that focuses on theory as much as solving problems.  Although proofs will not be emphasized on the exams, proof outlines will be a part of nearly every topic in the text and in lecture. Be prepared to spend six hours each week outside of lecture on this class. Homework assignments of three to four hours or so will be assigned and collected weekly and will have a significant grade component. Most of your learning will happen while completing these assignments. If you cannot do the exercises, then you will not pass the exams. You are expected to arrive at every lecture on time --even though 8:00 am can feel like the middle of the night to some students-- so adjust your sleeping schedule accordingly. While in class you should be respectful of the instructor and your classmates at all times. Ringing cell phones are discourteous and constitute a disruption. Cell phones are to be kept on silent and out of sight during class. Your positive attitude can only help the learning experience for everyone. If you come to class each day with your notebook, pen, text, and an open mind, and work hard, this class just may change your life. Heck, you will be joining that elite group that knows what an eigenvalue is!

Text:
The text for the course is  Linear Algebra and its Applications, third edition, by David C. Lay, Pearson Addison Wesley 2006.

Technology:
We will be using the software package, MAPLE, for several assignments.  Since URI has a site license for MAPLE, students can find it on many campus computers.  A calculator which performs matrix operations may be useful for assisting with homework assignments but is not required. Calculators will not be allowed on exams.

Students who require special accommodations and who have documentation from Disability Services (874-2098) should make arrangements with the course instructor as soon as possible.