MATH 260: Introductory Linear Algebra
Prerequisites: Either 1) a C or better in either MATH 138 or MATH 168, or 2) a passing
grade on a placement test approved by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Credit hours (3)
Matrix Operations, systems of linear equations, Gaussian elimination, determinants,
basic properties of vector spaces, basis and orthogonality, and eigenvalues and eigenvectors.
Calculators and computer software such as MATLAB will be used in this course.
Detailed Description of Course
1) Linear systems of equations
2) Gaussian Elimination
3) Matrices and matrix operations
4) Rank and inverse of a matrix
5) Determinants
6) Linear dependence and independence
7) Basic vector spaces, orthogonality and basis
8) Eigenvalues and eigenvectors
9) Applications
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Classes will be conducted in lecture format with time reserved for discussion. Students
will be required to use current technologies for some of the assignments, and a few
(2-5) lectures will serve as laboratory sessions in preparation for these assignments.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Upon successful completion of the course the student will
1) know basic methods for solving systems of linear equations
2) be familiar with the basic matrix operations,
3) know how to compute determinants, and will understand the role of determinants
in the theory of solvability of linear equations, and invertability of matrices,
4) understand the role of the rank of a matrix for the solution set of linear
equations,
5) know the basic concepts of eigenvalues and eigenvectors,
6) be familiar with typical applications of matrices.
7) be familiar with the use of calculators and software in matrix computations.
Assessment Measures
These measures may vary among instructors. They usually include quizzes, exams, graded
homework, computer assignments and a final exam.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
September 2001
March 2009
June 20, 2015