Math 2020 "Solving Discrete Problems"

Spring 2008 Syllabus

The textbook for the course is Discrete Mathematics with Combinatorics by James A. Anderson, Second Edition. The book will be very useful in the course, although we will not follow very closely. The purpose of the course is to present a variety of topics in discrete mathematics both to illustrate the nature of mathematics and to provide a glimpse of higher-level concepts and techniques. Grading will be based on homework assignments, class participation, one midterm, and the final exam. The combination of homework assignments and class participation will constitute 40% of the grade. The midterm will constitute 20% of the grade, and the remaining 40% will be based on the final exam. At least 90% of the available points will be needed for an A, at least 80% for a B, etc. This is an unconventional course: it requires plenty of thought, ingenuity, and good communication skills. I believe that the students interested in mathematics will enjoy the course a lot—and learn plenty from it. Those with ambivalent feelings towards math might just find math interesting. Even those who find math boring might see it in a new light, and will start to appreciate it and like it more. If you have any questions about the course, do not hesitate to contact me.

Name:

Bogdan Oporowski

Office:

352 Lockett Hall

Phone:

225.578.1579

Email:

bogdan@math.lsu.edu

Office hours:

MWF 1:40–2:30 and by appointment