Understand the nature of mathematical inquiry
This competency can be specified further as follows:
1. Model real world problems. Students will gain experience in modeling real world problems with precise mathematical language.
2. Write clearly and precisely. Students will demonstrate proficiency in writing mathematical arguments.
3. Understand mathematical theory. Students will acquire experience with mathematics as an abstract logical system.
4. Generalize and apply results. Students will gain appreciation of how complex structures arise from simple ones, and how general results can be applied in specific contexts.
All students are required to take one semester of mathematics. Three courses may fill this requirement: Mathematics 100 (Topics in Mathematics); Mathematics 101 (Calculus I); or Mathematics 102 (Calculus II). At the beginning of the semester, each instructor will identify at least one assignment or test component addressing each of our four stated competencies. Every semester the department will meet, and each instructor will present summary data for review and discussion. The department will evaluate the results and decide how to use them to improve its instruction in the future.
In addition, each instructor will write a report on the findings within his or her section of 100/101/102 (see
reporting form attached here). A report on the departmental discussion will also be summarized in writing. These reports will be submitted to the office of the General Education Committee.
