Topics in Linear and Abstract Algebra

Catalog description

This course examines concepts in algebra including: patterns and functions, arithmetic sequences, geometric sequences, arithmetic and algebra of the integers, least common multiple and greater common divisor, inequalities, modular arithmetic and systems of numbers, properties of groups and fields, the field of complex numbers, polynomial arithmetic and algebra, linear equations. The course develops the mathematical structures, algebraic properties, and applications of matrices, determinants, vectors, vector spaces, systems of linear equations, and linear transformations. Students engage with these concepts through exploration, analysis, proof, and problem solving based on activities used in secondary and middle school mathematics. Throughout the course students are given opportunities to relate the mathematical concepts studied to the mathematical concepts they will be teaching.