Math 17 is an entry-level course in mathematics that introduces the student to the fundamental structures on which mathematics is built. The course examines (1) sets and operations and the relationship between them); (2) counting techniques that determine the number of ways that an event can occur; (3) probability and the likelihood that an event will happen, and (4) the logic of rhetoric. Every topic is explored through theory and numerous examples both artificially tailored to illustrate a certain topic and real life examples to which the techniques can be applied. The student will be expected to study the theory and examples and be able to solve other problems using the techniques that have been presented.

Student will acquire a basic understanding of the four foundations of mathematics described above. Knowledge of the interrelationships between these topics as well as aspects that are unique to individual section is expected. In particular, after taking this course, students should be able to:

• Identify the relationships between two sets

• Use set operations to create new sets

• Use Venn Diagrams to evaluate sets and to solve counting problems

• Use the counting principles: the multiplication rule; permutations and combinations to solve real life problems

• Expand a binomial

• List a sample space

• Calculate probabilities using basic counting

• Use the probability rules and formulas to solve problems

• Find conditional probabilities

• Identify and translate propositions

• Complete truth tables

• Use proof techniques

• Analyze logic circuits

Web-Based Learning: This course is designed on Web-based technology; therefore web skills are required. As you know many course materials are on the Web.

Student-Centered Approach: Mathematics is a hands-on activity. It is never learned without continuous activities using the material, particularly to solve problems. That is why mathematics can be very well suited to the student-centered approach that focuses on student involvement in all aspects of the course. As the course proceeds through the semester, active involvement by the student will be essential to success. Some suggestions are:

• Be enthusiastic and maintain a positive attitude.


• Utilize the suggested readings.


• Try to set aside blocks of time on a regular schedule when you will be able to focus on the course.


• Use outside resources if necessary. There are many good sources out there besides the lessons and the text.  However, don’t spend so much time looking at other resources that it interferes with your progress in the course.


• Understand that the nature of the student centered approach means that it will take more time.  This course is designed to take the average student 12 hours per week.  Some will spend more time and some less.

Problem-Based Learning:

I strongly encourage you to use problem-based learning to enhance the understanding of materials. This means that each of you contributes to the progress in the learning process. Students should use prior knowledge and experiences to solve problems rather than learning through a passive format. While I recognize the importance of reading on your own, I recommend incorporating problem-based learning and active student participation within the Web environment whenever it is possible. Take advantage of the forum for the class and watch for regular posting from the instructor.

Course Schedule

The schedule below outlines the topics we will be covering in this course, along with the associated time frames and assignments. Note that assignments are due based on the Eastern Standard Time (EST). This ensures that all students have the same deadlines regardless of where they live.

Note: Each assignment is identified as graded (G) and ungraded (U).

The World Campus follows the same grading system as the Penn State resident program. The grades of A, B, C, D, and F indicate the following qualities of academic performance:

A = (Excellent) Indicates exceptional achievement
B = (Good) Indicates extensive achievement
C = (Satisfactory) Indicates acceptable achievement
D = (Poor) Indicates only minimal achievement
F = (Failure) Indicates inadequate achievement necessitating a repetition of the course in order to secure credit

Assignments: Links in Lessons 1 - 12 course content will take the student to graded quizzes. These should be submitted to the instructor within the appropriate timeframe for evaluation.

Exams: There are two proctored exams: a mid-term during week 8 and a final during week 16.

Final Examination: At the end of the semester there will be a comprehensive proctored final exam. The questions will be similar in style to the questions on the assignments and on the mid-course exams.

Percentage Grades: Course grades will be determined using the following distribution.

Letter Grades: