MATH 1704: Contemporary Mathematics

Subject
Credit Hours 4.0 Lecture Hours 4.0 Lab Hours 0.0
Type of Credit
Baccalaureate/Transfer
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Course Description
This is a general education mathematics course. It focuses on mathematical reasoning, solving real-life problems and appreciating math's function, rather than on routine skills. Three or four of the following topics will be studied in depth: geometry; both counting techniques and probability; graph theory; both logic and set theory; mathematical modeling; mathematics of finance; game theory; linear programming, including the simplex method; statistics; and both voting and apportionment. IAI: M1 904.
Prerequisite(s)
MATH 1424 or MATH 0985 with a grade of C or better, appropriate assessment score, or High School Transitional Math: quantitative literacy (QL) pathways/STEM pathway - Must be completed prior to taking this course.

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Use geometry to measure and describe the physical world.
  • Use counting techniques and elementary probability to facilitate decision making.
  • Use graph theory to find the most efficeint or cost effective routes.
  • Construct and examine arguments based on logic and set theory.
  • Model data with the aid of graphs using linear, exponential, logarithmic, and quadratic functions.
  • Apply finance formulas to taxes, investments, and loans.
  • Apply the strategies in game theory to make decisions.
  • Use linear programming and the simplex method to find a maximum or minimum quantity.
  • Use statistical methods to measure and describe data.
  • Use voting methods to choose a candidate and use apportionment methods to allocate items to several groups fairly.
Topical Outline

This is a sample outline:

1. Critical Thinking, Graphs, and Modeling

2. Set Theory

3. Logic

4. Personal Finance

5. Voting and Apportionment

6. Graph Theory