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Undergraduate Courses
TECH 137 138 139 - Fundamentals of Mathematics

Download PDF: PDF icon Tech137_138_139.pdf
Credit Hours: 3
Instructors:
Location:
Semester: Fall 2002

Course Description:

TECH 137 Fundamentals of Mathematics: Algebra

This course contains a variety of fundamental mathematical concepts that provide the basic foundation upon which future courses will build. We will examine numerical computation, algebra, equations, functions and relations, polynomials, conic sections, sequences & series, and graphing techniques.

 

TECH 138 Fundamentals of Mathematics: Trigonometry

This course introduces a number of very important functions. We start by introducing radian measure and arc length and then move on to trigonometric functions and identities. We learn about exponential and logarithmic functions and their properties. Lastly we look at complex numbers.

 

TECH 139 Fundamentals of Mathematics: Discrete Mathematics

This course introduces the concepts of proposition, predicate, sets and combinations. It offers a variety of tools for constructing mathematical arguments or determining whether a given argument is valid or not. Specific focus is given to Pascal's Triangle, the marvel that links combinatorics with algebra, numbers theory, geometry, and divinity.



Course Objectives:

TECH 137

  • Review basic concepts from numerical computation, algebra, and equations
  • Learn about functions and relations
  • Learn to graph different equations in both rectangular and polar coordinates
  • Recognize and use various polynomials and conic sections
  • Apply sequences and series (e.g. arithmetic, geometric)

 

TECH 138

  • Learn about radian measure and arc length
  • Recognize, graph and apply the trigonometric functions
  • Apply trigonometric identities
  • Learn about the properties of exponents, radicals, logarithms, exponential functions and logarithmic functions
  • Use complex numbers and write them in various forms

 

TECH 139

  • Introduce the concepts of proposition, predicate, sets and combinations
  • Expose students to some techniques of constructing mathematical arguments
  • Give students the tools to determine whether a given argument is valid or not
  • Introduce Pascal's Triangle as an amazing visual aid to identify and prove combinatorial identities
  • Expose students to practical problems that can be solved using counting techniques


Delivery Method:

Presentational Cooperative (PC)

In this course delivery model students meet at least once per week to participate in cooperative learning activities facilitated by an instructor. Learning that would traditionally occur in a lecture is instead supported in a Web presentation that includes multimedia and interactive elements. The Presentational Cooperative Model reproduces most of the cost advantages of a traditional lecture course while offering students more convenient access and more effective conditions for learning. Courses using this model will build the collaborative work skills that are a primary learning goal for SFU Students. Some courses using this model offer an optional Open Lab where students can receive additional learning support. Assessment may be based on individual and group assignments, quizzes, projects, and examinations.



Learning Activities + Evaluation:

*Please note these are the minimum expectations for each course on a weekly basis.

ALL:

Online/Text Reading: 3 hrs

Assignments: 2 hrs

Classroom session: 1.5 hrs

Workshop: 1.5 hrs (includes 30 minute quiz)

There will also be a 2.5 hour comprehensive course exam during Techweek.

 

Methods of Evaluation

ALL:

Assignments: 20%

Quizzes/Tests: 80%



Texts, Resources + Materials:

Text: Technical Mathematics with Calculus, M.A. Calter & P.A. Calter, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 4th edition, 2000

A selection of photocopied essays or articles

Software: Mathcad

Platform Requirements: PC



Prerequisites:

None




Last Updated: May 13, 2008

These course outlines are drafts and are subject to change.

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