Mathematics (MATH)

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[1] Graduate Courses in Mathematics (MATH)

5300 PROFESSIONALIZED SUBJECT MATTER The purpose of this course is to investigate the context of math teaching profession. This course emphasizes various forces that impact the profession and students’ access to and understanding of mathematical concepts. These topics include, but are not limited to standards, policies, curriculum, assessment, and issues of equity. Participants will engage with current research around these topics and consider how these forces impact the day-to-day functions of mathematics classrooms.

5305 ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS II This course is the sequel to Ordinary Differential Equations I and addresses more advanced topics, including ordinary and partial differential equations, Fourier series, and numerical analysis with modeling applications in physics, biology, and other sciences. Lectures, computer labs, and projects are central to the course. Prerequisites: MATH 3320 (Linear Algebra) and MATH 3331 (Ordinary Differential Equations I).

5306 MODELING AND SIMULATION This project-oriented course uses methods in applied mathematics (such as differential equations, probability, statistics) to solve real-world problems from science, business, and industry. Lectures, computer labs, and projects. Prerequisites: MATH 2441, 3320, 3331, and 4371.

5308 MATHEMATICAL THINKING FOR K-8 TEACHERS This course is designed for the professional development of K-8 teachers and does not substitute for requirements in the MA degree. This course focuses on the Number, Property, and Operation Strand of the Arkansas Mathematics Framework. The importance of the structural properties of the rational number system will be investigated. Participants will be encouraged to develop and generalize algorithms within the system.

5309 ALGEBRAIC THINKING FOR K-8 TEACHERS This course is required for candidates in the Elementary Mathematics Specialist program. It is designed to build both mathematical content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge by developing a way of thinking about the mathematics that underlies both arithmetic and algebra. Class discussion, problem solving, and case studies will be central to the course. Prerequisite: MATH 5308.

5315 INTRODUCTION TO PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS Topics include solving first order linear and non-linear partial differential equations using the method of characteristics, and solving second order linear partial differential equations using separation of variables. Applications include heat conduction, steady state temperatures, and vibrating strings and membranes. Prerequisites: MATH 2471 and 3331.

5316 FUNDAMENTALS OF APPLIED MATHEMATICS FOR FLUID MECHANICS AND GRANULAR MATERIALS This course is an introduction to applied mathematics in fluid mechanics and granular materials. Topics include dimensional analysis, perturbation methods for algebraic equations and differential equations, basic concepts and methods for fluid mechanics as well as granular materials. Prerequisite: MATH 4315 (Partial Differential Equations).

5330 MATHEMATICAL MODELING IN BIOLOGY This course is an introduction to mathematical modeling and analysis in the life sciences. Topics include reaction and enzyme kinetics; population, epidemic, stochastic, reaction-diffusion, and blood glucose regulation models. Analytical and numerical methods will be used. Prerequisites: C or better in MATH 2441 and 3331.

5335 GEOMETRY AND MEASUREMENT AND THEIR APPLICATIONS This course is designed for the professional development of K-8 teachers and does not substitute for requirements in the MA degree. This course builds on and extends the preliminary understanding of the geometry and measurement developed in the undergraduate courses for K-8 teachers. The geometry topics include transformations, definition and classification, composition and decomposition of shapes, spatial visualization, and relationships between one, two and three-dimensional objects. The measurement topics include angles, linear, area, volume, capacity, mass, weight, time, money, temperature, and related rates. Instructional and assessment strategies for these areas will be explored. Applications of these topics and connections among Geometry, Measurement, and the other Strands of the Arkansas Mathematics Framework will be examined.

5340 NUMERICAL METHODS This course develops the basic understanding of methods and skills to solve various mathematical problems numerically on a computer. Topics include numerical solutions of nonlinear equations, interpolation and polynomial approximation, numerical differentiation and integration, and numerical methods for solving ordinary differential equations. Lecture and computer activities. Prerequisites: MATH 2441 and 3331.

5345 COLLEGE GEOMETRY This course focuses on the elementary theory in foundations of geometry, advanced Euclidean geometry, and introduces transformations and non-Euclidean geometries. Problem solving, discovery, computer activities, and lecture. Prerequisite: Calculus I (MATH 1591).

5362 ADVANCED CALCULUS I This course is a mathematics elective for the M.A. in mathematics education. This rigorous theoretical treatment of calculus includes completeness, compactness, connectedness, sequences, continuity, differentiation, integration, and series. Lecture format and problem solving. Prerequisite: Calculus III (MATH 2371).

5363 ADVANCED CALCULUS II This course is an elective for the M.A. in mathematics education. This course is a multivariable treatment of Advanced Calculus topics that include a rigorous study of partial differentiation, multiple integrals, Implicit Function Theorem, Fubini’s Theorem, line integrals, and surface integrals. Lecture format and problem solving. Prerequisite: MATH 5362.

5371 INTRODUCTION TO PROBABILITY This graduate course presents a calculus-based probability theory. Topics include axioms of probability, probability rules, conditional probability and Bayes theorem, discrete/continuous random variables with their distribution functions, expected values and variances, joint distribution, conditional distribution, covariance, and conditional expectation. If time permits, moment generating function, law of large number, and central limit theorem will be covered. Prerequisite: MATH 1497.

5372 INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICAL INFERENCE This graduate course gives an introduction to the core theory of statistical inference. Topics include reviews of probability/distribution theory, sampling distributions, limiting distributions and modes of convergence, methods of estimation such as MME, MLE, and UMVUE with their properties. If time permits, UMP test and likelihood ratio test will be discussed. Prerequisite: MATH 5371.

5373 REGRESSION ANALYSIS This graduate course is an introduction to both the theory and practice of regression analysis. Topics include simple and multiple linear regression, linear models with qualitative variables, inferences about model parameters, regression diagnostics, variable selection, and the regression approach to analysis of variance (ANOVA). Prerequisite: MATH 5372 or consent of the instructor.

5374 INTRODUCTION TO STOCHASTIC PROCESSES This course is an introduction to applied mathematics in stochastic processes, and demonstrates how stochastic processes can be applied to the study of phenomena in fields such as engineering, computer science, management science, the physical and social sciences, and operations research. Topics include review of probability, Markov chains, continuous-time Markov chains, and stationary processes. Prerequisite: MATH 4371/5371 (Introduction to Probability) or consent of the instructor.

5375 INTRODUCTION TO TOPOLOGY I This course is an elective for the M.A. degree. This introduction to generalizations of the notion of continuity includes the study of minimum conditions on a set necessary to describe continuous functions. This study is accomplished via point set topology using examples including knots, surfaces, and function spaces. Lecture/seminar format. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

5385 COMPLEX ANALYSIS This course is an elective for the M.A. degree. The content of the course includes the arithmetic and geometry of the complex numbers, extension of transcendental functions to the field of complex numbers, analytic function theory, contour integration, the Cauchy Integral Theorem, series, calculus of residues, and harmonic functions. This course is fundamental to physics and engineering and is an extensive source of problems in pure mathematics. Lecture and discussion. Prerequisite: Calculus III (MATH 2371).

5391 MACHINE LEARNING This graduate course is an introduction to common methods and algorithms used in machine learning. Content is broken down into supervised and unsupervised learning with an emphasis on using current cross-validation methods in either setting. Supervised topics include a variety of linear regression methods. Unsupervised methods include cluster analysis and principal components. Students learn not only the theoretical underpinnings of learning, but also gain the practical know-how needed to apply these techniques quickly and powerfully to new problems using statistical software. Prerequisite: MATH 5373 or consent of instructor.

5392 TIME SERIES AND FORECASTING This graduate course is an introduction to time series analysis and forecasting in data science. Time series data are analyzed to understand the past and to predict the future. Topics include autocorrelation analysis, filtering time-series data, basic stochastic models, univariate time-series models, stationary models, non-stationary models, and long-memory processes. Prerequisite: MATH 5373 or consent of instructor.

6V80 MATHEMATICS SEMINAR (Variable credit: 1-3 credit hours.) This course serves as a graduate elective for the MA or MS in mathematics. The purpose of this course is to study a chosen area of advanced mathematics or mathematics education. May be repeated for up to 6 hours when the theme of the course is changed. Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

6V82 INDEPENDENT STUDY IN MATHEMATICS Variable credit: 1-3 credit hours.) This course serves as an elective for the MS in applied mathematics or the MA in mathematics education. The purpose of this course is to conduct independent study in a chosen area of advanced mathematics, applied mathematics, or mathematics education. May be repeated for up to 6 credit hours when the theme of the course is changed. Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

6V85 RESEARCH IN MATHEMATICS (Variable credit: 1-3 credit hours, predetermined by the instructor.) This course is a directed research project in a selected area of mathematics education, advanced mathematics, or applied mathematics. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

6V96 THESIS (Variable credit: 1-6 credit hours.) A requirement for the MS degree in Applied Mathematics (thesis option) and an option for the MA degree in Mathematics Education. Topics are chosen in consultation with an advisor. Course may be repeated.

6305 MATHEMATICAL REASONING AND PROOF The purpose of this course is to deepen the understanding of mathematical reasoning and proof, especially its role in mathematics teaching and learning. The emphasis of this course is on strategies and techniques to develop effective reasoning skills and proof for mathematics. Reasoning and proof will be recognized as a fundamental aspect of mathematics, mathematical conjectures will be made and investigated, mathematical arguments and proofs will be developed and evaluated, and various types of reasoning and methods of proof will be selected and used.

6307 ADVANCED TOPICS FOR MATHEMATICS EDUCATORS This course investigates mathematics education research and its application to the classroom. Research will be read and discussed with particular emphasis on classroom research methodologies and implications for teaching. Opportunities to develop and implement action research projects form a key component of the course.

6310 ADVANCED ALGEBRA FOR MATHEMATICS EDUCATORS The purpose of this course is to develop a deeper understanding of abstract algebra. Topics include group theory, ring theory, and field theory. This course emphasizes the connections between secondary mathematics and the essential topics found within abstract algebra. The ways in which these topics are insightful and productive for secondary teachers and secondary teaching will be discussed.

6312 DATA MODELING FOR K-8 TEACHERS As a requirement in the Elementary Mathematics Specialist track of the ASTL Program, this graduate course is designed to prepare K-8 teachers to help students develop their understanding of data displays, measures of center, measures of variability, statistical generalization, chance, modeling measurements, and making inferences in light of uncertainty. Prerequisite: Teaching certification in a grade band within K-8.

6315 INTRODUCTION TO NUMBER THEORY This course serves as an elective for the M.A. in mathematics education and provides an introduction to number theory for secondary and beginning collegiate teachers of mathematics. Topics include divisibility, prime number theory, numerical functions, the algebra of congruence classes, higher degree congruence classes, number theory on the reals, Diophantine equations, and applications. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

6325 PROBLEM SOLVING AND MODELING FOR MATHEMATICS EDUCATORS The purpose of this course is to deepen the understanding of problem solving and mathematical modeling and its role in mathematics teaching and learning. The emphasis of this course is on strategies, heuristics, and reflection as tools for the development of effective problem solvers and the ways in which students effectively engage in modeling. Mathematical knowledge will be constructed through problem solving and modeling, problems will be solved in mathematical and other contexts, various strategies will be applied to solve problems, and the process of mathematical problem solving will be monitored and reflected upon.

6335 TECHNOLOGICAL TOOLS FOR MATHEMATICS EDUCATORS The purpose of this course is to investigate and implement various technologies to enhance the teaching and learning of secondary mathematics. This course emphasizes technologies, such as computer and web-based programs, apps, and videos in relation to current research around the best practices of teaching through and with technology. Participants will consider related topics such as conceptual frameworks in education technology, equity, access, and productive facilitation of student learning with technology.

6340 HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES OF MATHEMATICS This course serves as an elective for the M.A. in mathematics education and provides a survey of the history and development of mathematical thought from ancient to modern times including philosophical, sociological, and biographical perspectives. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

6342 MATHEMATICAL MODELING This course uses mathematical concepts and techniques to model problems from the physical, biological, social, and behavioral sciences. Graphics calculator and computer will be used. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

6345 ADVANCED ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS This course includes the following topics: linear systems of differential equations with constant coefficients and matrix exponentials; systems with periodic coefficients and Floquet theory; properties of solutions of linear and nonlinear systems; behaviors near equilibrium and the stability of equilibrium; stable/unstable manifolds, the Hartman-Grobman theorem and the center manifold theorem; the Poincare-Bendixson theorem; bifurcation of equilibria; and the existence and uniqueness of solutions. Prerequisites: MATH 3331 or equivalent.

6348 NUMERICAL ANALYSIS Topics in this course include direct methods for solving linear systems, iterative techniques in matrix algebra, numerical solutions of nonlinear systems of equations, finite difference method for boundary value problems, and numerical solutions of partial differential equations. Prerequisites: MATH 2441, 3320, and either 4315 or 5315; or consent of instructor.

6350 ADVANCED GEOMETRY FOR MATHEMATICS EDUCATORS The purpose of this course is to develop a deeper understanding of foundations and extensions of Euclidean geometry. Topics include Euclidean geometry as an axiomatic and transformational geometry, advanced Euclidean geometry topics, and non-Euclidean geometry. All topics will be contextualized within secondary geometry standards and current research on geometry teaching and learning.

6357 METHODS FOR SOLVING NONLINEAR PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS Topics in this course include Charpit’s method, nonlinear separability, compatibility, variable transformations and Burger’s equation, Darboux transformations, first integrals, similarity transformations, Hodograph transformations, point and contact transformations, and Bäcklund transformations. Emphasis will be placed on solving nonlinear partial differential equations that arise in different areas of science and engineering. Prerequisites: MATH 4315/5315 or equivalent.

6365 FEEDBACK CONTROL OF DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS This course is an introduction to analysis and control design for both finite and infinite dimensional dynamical systems. It will focus on basic topics, including state/output feedback and feedforward controls, robust feedback and feedforward controls, interior and boundary feedback controls for reaction-diffusion equations and wave equations, and applications to blood glucose regulation systems and other physical and engineering problems. Prerequisites: MATH 3320 and 3331 or consent of instructor.

6370 ADVANCED CALCULUS FOR MATHEMATICS EDUCATORS This course is designed for teachers to develop a deeper understanding of essential concepts found within calculus. Topics include function, limit, rate, derivative, accumulation, and integration. Connections between calculus and other topics within secondary mathematics is considered. Emphasis is placed on the underlying mathematical content and techniques needed to develop effective reasoning and proofs to justify common calculus questions and theorems.

6372 INTEGRAL TRANSFORMS An elective for the MS degree in Applied Mathematics. Topics include the Fourier, Laplace, and Hankel transforms; their operational properties, inversion formulas. Emphasis will be placed on solving ordinary and partial linear differential equations using the transform techniques. Applications include wave and heat equations. Prerequisites: MATH 3331 and 4315/5315.

6376 DESIGN OF EXPERIMENTS An elective for the MS degree in Applied Mathematics and the MA degree in Mathematics Education. Major topics include, but are not limited to, fixed and random effects models, single-factor and factorial designs, block designs, response surface designs, nested and split-plot designs, and designs with covariates. Prerequisite: MATH 4373/5373 or consent of instructor.

6378 SYMMETRY ANALYSIS OF DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS Topics in this course include symmetry analysis of first order ordinary differential equations, second and higher order ordinary differential equations and systems of ordinary differential equations, nonlinear first order partial differential equations, linear and nonlinear second order partial differential equations, and systems of partial differential equations. A computer algebra system such as Maple will be used as a tool in the construction of symmetries. Prerequisite: MATH 4315/5315.

6395 PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS FOR MATHEMATICS EDUCATORS The purpose of this course is to develop a deeper understanding of probability and statistics content found in secondary education from an advanced perspective. Topics include probability, data summary techniques, statistical distributions, parameter estimation and statistical inference. Topics will be contextualized within high school statistics standards and current research on the teaching and learning of statistics.