BA Math/BS Applied Math Learning Objectives

• Goal 1: The Ability to Use and Construct Logical Arguments

  • The ability to reason logically to conclusions, including the ability to use precise definitions and to use various forms of logical argument.

    Specific Learning Objectives to be Assessed:

    1. Ability to give direct proofs
    2. Ability to give proofs by contradiction
    3. Ability to give proofs by mathematical induction
    4. Ability to apply definitions to give proofs
    5. Ability to give proofs and disproofs involving quantified statements
• Goal 2: The Ability to Communicate Mathematics Effectively

  • The ability to read mathematics with understanding and to communicate mathematical ideas with clarity and coherence.

    Specific Learning Objectives to be Assessed:

    1. Ability to state a problem accurately, articulate assumptions, and describe a method of solution
    2. Ability to conduct independent investigation of mathematical concepts at the undergraduate level
    3. Ability to give written reports and oral presentations that include mathematical context which is mathematically accurate, yet accessible to classmates
• Goal 3: The Ability to Perform Standard Mathematical Computations

  • Specific Learning Objectives to be Assessed:

    1. Ability to evaluate limits
    2. Ability to calculate derivatives and integrals
    3. Ability to determine regions of convergence
    4. Ability to apply properties of algebraic and transcendental functions
• Goal 4: The Ability to Use Technology to Solve Mathematical Problems

  • Specific Learning Objectives to be Assessed:

    1. Ability to write programs to solve mathematical problems
    2. Ability to use a mathematical programming environment such as MATLAB or Maple
    3. Ability to interpret numerical results
    4. Ability to understand that there are limits to numerical accuracy
• Goal 5: The Ability to Use Mathematical Model to Solve Practical Problems

  • Specific Learning Objectives to be Assessed:

    1. Ability to extract relevant information from a practical problem and give a mathematical formulation of the problem
    2. Ability to use numerical results to validate (or modify) a model and to understand the limitation of a model
    3. Ability to clearly describe models, including an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of models and their relationship to the underlying problem