Welcome to Math 320! This course is an introduction to Linear Algebra. Linear Algebra is one of the most fundamental subjects in modern mathematics and an invaluable tool in many other disciplines ranging from economics to computer science and physics to engineering. In this course we will explore solutions to linear systems of equations, vector spaces and linear transformations.
The final exam is on Friday May 7, 2010 at 10:30 am.
Lecturer: Izzet Coskun, coskun@math.uic.edu
Office hours: MW 9-10, F 11-12 and by appointment in SEO 423
Venue: Lecture Center A, A004
Text book: We will be using an online book freely available on the web. The text book for this course is Linear Algebra by Jim Hefferon of Saint Michael's College. You can download the book at BOOK
Prerequisites: Calculus I, II, III. Some familiarity with writing proofs is helpful, but not required.
Homework: There will be weekly homework. The homework is due on Wednesdays at the beginning of class. Late homework will not be accepted. You are allowed in fact encouraged to discuss problems; however, the write-up must be your own and should reflect your own understanding of the problem. I consider homework to be the most important part of this course. Anyone who misses more than two problem sets will receive a failing grade in this course.
Grading: There will be one midterm exam and a final examination. The midterm and the homework will each count for 30% of your grade. The final examination will account for 40% of your grade. In order to pass the course, you must pass the final exam.
Additional references: There are many excellent text books in Linear Algebra. You might want to refer to them for more information or a different point of view. Some of my favorites are:
Links to other linear algebra webpages: Caution I have not checked the content in these pages. Some have beautiful pictures and applications that you might find useful.
Course materials: