MA 1801
Denksport
Worcester Polytechnic Institute · UGRD · Fall 2026
Catalog description
Problem-solving is a fundamental mathematical skill. In this course, students will be exposed to problems coming from a wide range of mathematical disciplines; and will work together in a collaborative environment to explore potential solutions. Discussion problems may be inspired by the research of faculty leading the discussion, by past mathematical competitions (such as the Putnam Competition), or elsewhere. This course meets once per week, with an emphasis on discussion and exploration of problems. There will be no exam and no assigned homework. Grading is by participation only. This course may be taken multiple times; content will vary depending on the speakers. Grading for this course will be on a Pass/NR basis. Recommended background: Curiosity about Mathematics
Sections
Current meeting, instructor, credit, and enrollment details
A01
OpenSeats: 13/30 seats Last recorded: Aug 13, 2026, 6:47 PM- Days & times
- W12:00 PM - 1:50 PM
- Meeting dates
- 2026-08-20 - 2026-10-09
- Location
- Stratton Hall 207 (new)
- Instructor
- Sarah Olson
Section notes
<p><span style="color:#4a4a4a"><span>This course will explore real-world applications of mathematics and statistics, meet experts shaping today’s math powered industries, and join a supportive community of peers as you transition into your major</span></span></p>
B01
OpenSeats: 5/24 seats Last recorded: Aug 13, 2026, 6:47 PM- Days & times
- T4:00 PM - 5:50 PM
- Meeting dates
- 2026-10-19 - 2026-12-11
- Location
- Stratton Hall 201
- Instructor
- Kenji Kozai
Section notes
<p>Prep for The William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition</p><p><u><a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.maa.org%2Fmath-competitions%2Fputnam-competition&data=05%7C01%7Cclb%40wpi.edu%7C8752f5767d934ab0768e08dbab206fdb%7C589c76f5ca1541f9884b55ec15a0672a%7C0%7C0%7C638291928052070106%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ubaPRjcaSBhA%2Fn5kSjYa7taHyNQDQkyF70EMqHj5rQ4%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.maa.org/math-competitions/putnam-competition</a></u></p>