Math and Society

Catalog description

How do we wrap our heads around a trillion dollars? What are some of the pros and cons of the U.S. Electoral College? What is the best option for financing a car? What do the scientific data tell us about global warming? Through the exploration of questions like these, students in this course will learn how to manage numbers in everyday situations, apply appropriate mathematical tools to analyze data, make evidence-based conclusions, and effectively communicate their reasoning. Topics may vary based on the instructor, student interest, and current local and global issues, such as social, environmental, and health issues, personal finance, and politics. This course will encourage students to think critically about quantitative statements and information they encounter in everyday life.