The minutes of the meetings of April 30 and July 8 were approved.
The committee considered the assertion of Joe Rotman that the material of Math 332 was 400 level material. Although the idea was not accepted it was decided to have a committee look at the course. Weinberg will provide a list of former instructors of the course.
A letter to the chair from Wetzel concerning unprepared graduate students from other disciplines in courses like Math 302 was discussed. It was agreed that this is a matter to be handled by the instructor.
The goals and membership of the ad hoc committee CIRI formed by the chair was discussed. The UAC is a subset of CIRI. Miles indicated that CIRI will concern itself in part with graduate matters while many undergraduate problems will not be addressed by CIRI. The discussion blossomed into related matters. Uhl, among others, emphasized that we should take the initiative in bringing educational matters to the Engineering College.
The preceding discussion having included the consideration of our many flavors of the calculus, Weichsel was asked to describe progress on the proposed project to evaluate C and M, the Harvard calculus, and related courses. The NSF will fund a two year project to develop a plan to evaluate methods of presenting the calculus. The principal investigator is Ken Travers with co-investigators from the mathematics departments of Parkland ( as a community college), Cal State San Marcos (as a state college), and the UIUC (as a research university). This is part of an NSF effort to develop a set of criteria for evaluating programs.
Future meetings of the UAC will depend upon the activities of CIRI.
Respectfully submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
Jerry Uhl presented a proposal to run three sections of a Mathematica based course on differential equations under the rubric of Math 285 in the format of a single lecture given by a faculty member followed by two one hour computer labs each week. The labs will be supervised by the faculty member in charge assisted by an undergraduate student. The lectures would be given by Uhl, each section having its own lecture. The material used has been developed over several semesters and is currently being offered in three sections. The only changes involve the format and the fact that one professor will be responsible for the three sections. The proposal was approved on an experimental basis for Spring 1997 by a vote of 5-1. Discussion of the proposal suggested that consideration be given to choosing a TA as one of the assistants and to changing the percentage of the final grade assigned to homework.
Ben Halperin referred to a similar organization for Math 242. Since this represented no significant change from the current situation, it elicited no significant discussion.
Respectfully submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
Carol McGehe described the material and texts for the courses Math 117 and Math 203. Math 203, Theory of Arithmetic, is a four hour course required of students in Elementary School Education and Early Childhood Development. It replaces an earlier three hour version, Math 201. The course is being offered every semester. It is taken primarily by juniors and seniors, with 94 students currently enrolled. The text is "Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers", Billstein et al. The book will be supplemented by class notes and calculators are encouraged. Math 117, Experimental Mathematics, is a three hour course which, like Math 203, satisfies the Quantitative Reasoning requirement. It is strongly recommended for students in Elementary School Education and Early Childhood Development. It is taken primarily by freshmen and sophomores, with 91 students currently enrolled. The course replaces the earlier Math 200 which was not available to LAS students. The proposed text is "Concepts in Algebra, A Technological Approach", by Fey et al. The course uses calculators and computers in exploring mathematical models of real life situations. For both courses elaborate syllabi and material for evaluating students was provided. The committee approved the texts, although some criticism of Billstein's book was expressed.
John Luker requested the approval of the new edition of the Math 112 text, "Functioning in the Real World, A Precalculus Experience", by Gordon, Fusaro, et alia. The book and course are in the mode of the Harvard calculus. Calculators are used as an integral part of the course. The request was approved but elicited discussion of the difference between the course and the material used in the correspondence version of the course.
Respectfully submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of Sept. 30 were approved.
Nigel Boston described the experimental material for Math 118 he has been presenting with 4 teaching assistants. The course is based on a text by Bennett, Briggs, and Morrow, "Quantitative Reasoning: Mathematics for Citizens in the 21st Century" and other materials selected from newspapers and similar contemporary sources. The material is based on real life examples, the goal being to ensure a course that is relevant to the students and contributes in an honest way to their ability to apply quantitative reasoning to their own experiences. The committee enthusiatically encouraged the continuation of experimentation with this material.
Weichsel reported on the implementation of a proposal of CIRI that was brought before the faculty and approved by the Executive Committee. We are to hire two additional teaching associates, who, with John Luker, will handle all classes in Math 112, 114, and 116. This will reduce the number of Teaching Assistants required by 10. Weichsel, Miles, Paley, Weinberg and Luker met last Friday to discuss the implementation of this and another proposal. The discussion turned to the need to adequately compensate Teaching Associates; it was pointed out that one respected Teaching Associate received less than a 2% raise last year. Since we will be making a large change it was decided that it would be appropriate to consider some form of performance measurement for the department's teaching associates. A committee consisting of Weichsel (chair), Bradlow, and a third person to be named, was appointed for this purpose.
The committee began a discussion of the implementation of suggested changes in the third semester calculus course. This discussion will be continued at a special meeting on Wednesday.
Respectfully submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The committee approved two proposals for courses in Calculus of Several Variables. Beginning in the Fall of 1997 we will offer Math 242 in the format of four one hour classes: two hours of lecture and two hours of smaller lab/discussion sections. This is to apply to all sections apart from Calculus and Mathematica, honors sections, and the Harvard sections. The course will remain a three hour course. In the spring of 1998 we are to offer a separate four hour course, Math 243, which will cover the same material but will be extended to include some of the material currently contained in the advanced calculus. The course will be offered in the format of five one hour classes: three hours of lecture and two hours of smaller lab/discussion sections. The exact details of the course remain to be filled in. Paul Weichsel has indicated that feelers are out to LAS and Engineering to test their reaction to these proposals.
The committee will recommend to CIRI that the department consider offering eight week courses. These could be one or two hour courses that cover particular topics in the small or flesh out some existing course. For example we now offer two versions of Math 285, but each contains some material that is not in the other course. Or, if 280 dies, such a course might provide a 242 student the opportunity to acquire the material added to 243.
The committee rejected a proposal that different versions of a course (as in our calculus offerings) be given different course numbers. However, it was agreed that the timetable should contain more information that would enable students and advisors to distinquish between different kinds of offerings.
Respectfully submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The Minutes of the meeting of October 23 were approved.
The necessity of touching base with our clientele before proceeding with the format change in Math 242 was discussed. Weichsel will handle this.
Based upon the outcome of an open meeting held the preceding Thursday, the chair presented a statement to be presented to the Executive Committee endorsing the continued use of a " reform calculus" such as in the Hughes-Hallett text. The proposal passed 5-2.
Weichsel reported that Facilities Planning has found classrooms in various parts of campus that will support the revised presentation of Math 112-114-116.
The committee approved a request from Stolarsky to use the new text by Helms for Math 361.
Respectfully submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The Minutes of the meeting of October 28 were approved.
The use of the new edition of Lay for Math 225 was approved. There will have to be a new syllabus prepared for the course.
It was decided to defer any action related to replacement of the Hughes-Hallett text until a decision is reached by the Executive Committee about the fate of this version of the calculus.
Porta, Paley, and others to be recruited will serve on a committee to consider the text for the standard calculus.
The committee discussed the possibility of implementation of large lecture sections for Math 134. No position was taken at this time. The discussion included the need to avoid the temptation to teach the course at an inappropriate level and the advantages associated with the possible use of advanced graduate students for lectures.
The committee discussed the need to change 280 and to consider the impact of the new course 243 which will cover the content of 242 plus some vector calculus. A committee consisting of Bradlow, Uhl, and Weinberg will undertake these discussions.
The chair pointed out the need to update syllabi. There are no current syllabi, for example, in the files for Math 385 and 384.
Respectfully submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The Minutes of the meeting of November 4 were approved.
Weinberg made an addendum to the minutes of the previous meeting. Muncaster has delivered to him a set of outlines presented last year to the Liason committee for courses in differential equations including one for Math 385. This met the committee's approval. In the discussion of missing course syllabi it was noted that there is no existing outline for Math 384. Peressini will be asked if he has a copy of the syllabus he once wrote. The chair reminded the committee that people writing syllabi must know that the new university calendar allows only 43 (not 44) class periods for 3 hour courses and 72 class periods for 5 hour courses. The chair also pointed out that incorrect syllabi have been distributed for some courses this fall.
Weichsel reported that the Executive Committee will decide upon the undergraduate course offerings on November 12.
The committee enjoyed a wide ranging discussion about who speaks for the department with regard to prerequisites for courses. The discussion was a response to a course description distributed by a colleague earlier this week. Several points were made. Prerequisites are a matter of departmental policy, not individual fiat. Instructors have a responsibility to communicate at the beginning of a course what they expect from students in their course, but this should be within guidelines proposed by the Undergraduate Affairs Committee. Some members feel strongly that restrictive prerequisites will place barriers in the way of students taking our courses. Miles suggested that this same question may be brought up again in CIRI.
The potential usefulness of 8 (or 15) week 1 or 2 hour courses in special topics was mentioned.
Weichsel called attention to problems that have arisen with individual instructors who do not deal responsibly with their students.
Respectfully submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
Approval of the minutes of November 11, 1996 was deferred to the meeting of Nov. 25.
Paley will appoint a subcommittee to examine possible materials for the "Harvard" calculus project. Prof. Uhl suggested that since Prof. Miles has raised questions about the materials, he should be among those asked to serve on the subcommittee.
In the absence of Profs. Miles and Weinberg, the following items were deferred to the meeting of Nov. 25: Format of Math 134, possible one and two hour courses, syllabi for Math 342 and 388.
A general discussion then took place, with most of it directed toward how we might do things to make our undergraduates feel more a part of the department. It was suggested that we meet with some current majors and former majors. To get things underway, it was thought that a meeting with either SUM or its officers, and with former major Ben Halperin and others on campus who might be identified, should be held. One possible time is two weeks from today, Monday, December 2, at 5 PM, or, perhaps an evening when SUM has one of its own meetings. The Chair will ask Prof. Weinberg if he can contact appropriate members of SUM to discuss such a meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
Hiram Paley
The minutes of November 11 and 18 were approved.
A prospective meeting with undergraduates will be postponed until second semester.
Michael Meade, the current undergraduate teaching assistant is to be invited to join the committee.
Paley reported on a conversation with Bill Williamson of the College of Commerce with regard to the new format for offering Math 134 (2 lectures, 2 recitation/lab sections). He found the new format reasonable. It will be necessary to constitute a subcommittee to write a syllabus suitable for the new course.
The question of 1-2 hour courses will be deferred since one of the leading proponents was not present.
Bradlow raised a question about what we are doing about contacting other departments to see what their needs are. A discussion of liaison ensued. It was brought to the committee's attention that Aimo Hinkkanen is in the process of meeting with the Mathematics-Engineering liaison committee. We should make these efforts through existing liasison committees.
The question of syllabi for Math 342 and 388 will be passed on to Robert Jerrard.
The question was raised as to whether we should go to a 4 hour format for both 120 and 130 (which are currently 5 hour and 3 hour, respectively. It was decided to put this question on hold until we see how the recently proposed change for 242 works out.
Weichsel reported on a suggestion by Schupp that we consider a one year version of abstract algebra, one which would implement standard auxilliary material such as coding, combinatorics, etc.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of November 25 were approved.
Aimo Hinkkanen reported on the last meeting of the Engineering-Mathematics
Liaison Committee. Their minutes show three items of interest.
(1) Drafting a letter to Mathematics concerning the new format for
Math 242. (This question is moot since we will not be using the format
in the near future.)
(2) Discussion of the difference between the two calculus sequences,
noting that we require of students higher math placement scores and strong
background in geometry for enrollment in Math 135-245.
What should the policy of the College of Engineering be about
directing students into the various calculus classes.
(3) Presentation of data produced by Professor Angus Rockett on
performance of students in later courses depending upon the
version of calculus taken. His data show no significant difference
between students taking the standard calculus and Calculus &
Mathematica. There is insufficient data concerning the Harvard
calculus.
There was a discussion of potential new courses at the 200 and 300 level. Some of these would be one or two hour courses. There should be courses more computational than theoretical in nature. Hinkkanen made the following suggestions, some of which have been discussed at other times
Michael Meade, the current undergraduate teaching assistant has accepted an invitation to join the committee as the undergraduate representative.
Randy McCarthy, Abigail Hoit, Joe Miles, and Carl Jockusch will serve on a committee to examine alternate materials for the Harvard calculus.
Eva Gray, Alfio Giarlotta, Marjorie Obermayer, and Karl Schmidt will serve on a committee to prepare for the new mode of teaching Math 134 (two lectures, two recitations per week).
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of December 9 were approved.
Meeting time for the second semester was set at 11AM on Fridays. There will be no meeting on February 7.
Weinberg reported on the conclusions of the 242-243-280 committee (W.., Uhl, and Bradlow). It was decided to determine the fate of 242 when the calculus committee had decided on a text and syllabus for Math 120 and 130. The completed Math 243 proposal was submitted and approved. Porta proposed adding a list of optional topics to the syllabus. For Math 280, Advanced Calculus, it was proposed that a single section experiment with the text Div, Grad, Curl, and All That. Weinberg agreed to advertise for an instructor of that section.
Weinberg proposed that a Mathematics Minor for the Engineering College be established. There currently exists such a minor in LAS. There was general agreement, but it was decided to put off any decisions on the structure until the next meeting. In the meantime Weinberg will sound out several people in Engineering.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of January 30 were approved.
Because questions had been raised about linear algebra courses and particularly about linear algebra in the differential equations course, Math 285, It was decided to consider these issues. Weinberg gave a brief description of Math 125, 225, 315, and 318 and an indication of who took which course. The role of linear algebra in 285 and whether the course needed a linear algebra prerequisite was discussed. When Weinberg mentioned that the linear algebra version had some of the linear material deleted to insert topics in Fourier analysis, it was decided to end the discussion until the syllabi could be examined.
At the request of CIRI the committee considered the question of whether additional courses needed to be reduced to once a year scheduling because of small enrollments, and if more once a year courses couldn't be offered in the spring. Mentioned for such reductions were 313, 384, and 348. Weinberg pointed out that some such courses are paired, with one being offered in the fall and the other in the spring so as to continue to provide opportunities for students to take a variety of advanced courses. Such pairs are 332-323, 342-385. Weinberg will report back with details about such offerings in the past.
Paley pointed out that the subcommittee for examining the small group calculus classes using the Harvard materials were close to a decision about replacing the text. Weinberg pointed out that as long as the department was not willing to commit resources for training instructors in small group teaching techniques these courses would remain unsuccessful orphans. Weichsel and Obermayer discussed the pros and cons of extended training sessions beyond the two hours now devoted to training. Weichsel will consider this as part of next year's program.
The question of honors courses was brought up. Currently there are the honors seminars 198 and 296. Math 198 is almost the property of the Campus Honors Program and is offered every fall. Math 296 is normally offered in the spring but suffers from low enrollment and is often cancelled. There are honors sections of Math 242, 280, 285, and 315 every semester, Math 130 in the fall semester, and 245 in the spring semester. Questions have been raised about the quality of the students. Weichsel pointed out that we tried to offer 242 honors this spring by restricting enrollment to authorized students, but this failed to attract enough students until Dianna Armstrong did a search for interested students. Weinberg said that we can check enrolled students after registration for qualification and even personally invite qualified students, but this is time consuming. Weinberg pointed out that there is still an existing proposal for an honors program which has not been implemented. He will bring it before the committee again at the next meeting.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of February 14 were approved.
Jerry Uhl presented the following resolution: "Any student who has a minimum of C average in mathematics courses and who applies to be a mathematics major will be accepted as a mathematics major." Weinberg presented in writing a description of current implementation of admissions to the major which is more restrictive than the proposal. There seemed to be some agreement that the resolution was too permissive, because our current program beyond the calculus is a demanding one, although some members indicated students should be allowed the right as adults to make their own mistakes. After discussion Uhl withdrew the resolution and Weinberg volunteered to draw up some informal written guidelines.
A small subcommittee consisting of Michael Meade and Ben Halperin will investigate what can be done to make the mathematics major more attractive to undergraduates.
Weinberg announced the creation of our private mailing lists, one for each of the groups of students in Mathematics, Actuarial Science, Teacher Education, and Mathematics & Computer Science. Thus far it has been used to distribute a newsletter and several announcements. SUM is active this semester. It is planning meetings every week (Thursdays at 5) with study sessions alternating with talks.
The matter of a Mathematics Minor for Students in the College of Engineering was resolved by approving the following conditions for such a minor: Calculus through Math 242, 243, 245 or equivalent, Differential Equations, and 12 additional hours of courses selected from the list 280, 296, 312, 313, 315, 317, 318, 321, 323, 342, 344, 346, 347, 348, 351, 353, 361, 363, 366, 381, 384, 385, 388.
It was decided that there was no serious need to require linear algebra as a prerequisite for Math 285.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
Math 285 was briefly discussed. Paley agreed to contact Bob Muncaster to review recent changes in the systems version of 285.
The question of the timing for offering various 300 level courses was postponed since Weinberg was absent from the meeting.
Discussion of the Honors Program and courses was postponed until it could be arranged to have Craggs and Ruan attend a meeting. They will be invited to next week's meeting.
A discussion was held concerning the fact that at our meeting with the Engineering Liaison Committee earlier this semester, we left the notion with them that the Math 135-235 sequence covered material at a somewhat more sophisticated level than the 120-130-242 sequence. Paley asked Uhl and Porta what the differences were between the C&M 135-245 sequence and the C&M 120-130-242 sequence. The answer was that the former is covered in 10 hours while the latter is covered in 11 hours. Paley's opinion was that the next time a discussion is held outside the Department about these courses, we have to make clear more carefully what the we are doing in these courses. As for now, the matter will not be further pursued by our Committee.
The letter sent earlier by Michael Meade was discussed in the context of prerequisites for Math 243. There was agreement that the prerequisites for Math 243 should simply be passing Math 130. Other aspects of Meade's letter were discussed, and it became clear that the person who teaches 243 needs to keep it at an appropriate level.
Paley reported that unless the subcommittee to choose a calculus text radically changes its current thinking, the book used next fall will be Stewart's Calculus with Early Transcendentals, 3rd Edition. Paley advised the subcommittee thinking about 242, 243 and 280 to proceed with its work under the assumption that Stewart's text is a "done deal."
Paley reported that the subcommittee on calculus texts feels that possibly one additional hour in the calculus sequence would be beneficial. Our present courses are intense as any in the Big Ten, in that they cover three semesters work in just 11 hours. Many of our sister schools spend up to two or three hours more on the same material. Those that cover some of the more advanced topics that we omit do this by adding even more time to their courses. Weichsel responded that instead of adding time, we should consider dropping some of the topics that we currently cover. After a number of committee members suggested some of their favorite topics for dropping, Paley invited committee members to send him a list of topics to be dropped by the following Wednesday, which he will print and distribute to the Committee. At the suggestion of some, members may also note topics that might be added.
The meeting adjourned at 11:50 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Hiram Paley
The minutes of the meeting of February 28 were approved.
The committee discussed and approved a proposal for an honors program for mathematics (and mathematics education) majors. Professors Ruan and Craggs, the Honors Committee were present for the discussion. The proposal is a revision of one put forward some time ago by a committee chaired by Tenney Peck.
In addition it was agreed that a list of 300 level courses would be drawn up to present to the Assistant Dean in charge of honors which James Scholars could present as honors courses without their being so designated in the timetable and without requiring that students do additional honors work in order to be so recognized.
A proposal for an Honors Program for Actuarial students was also submitted. Esther Portnoy was invited to attend the next meeting of the committee to discuss this proposal.
Paley reported on a meeting with Bob Muncaster, Bob Jerrard, and Weinberg to discuss Math 285. Uneasiness concerning the syllabi for the versions of the course was set to rest.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of March 7 were approved.
Esther Portnoy presented a proposal for an Honors Program for students in Actuarial Science.
Stewart's Calculus with Early Transcendentals, 3rd Edition, has been adopted as the text for the standard sections of Math 120 and 130.
The question of whether the department should adopt a policy on the sale, use, and/or distribution of solution manuals was considered. The question arose from a request by one of the instructors of Math 213 who wished to make available the solutions manual with odd numbered problems. It was decided not to establish a general policy at this time, but to allow the distribution in this case if both instructors agreed. Opinions of committee members ranged from one extreme that under no conditions should the department sanction the distribution of solution manuals to the other that under no conditions should the department interfere with any decision that any professor made with regard to his personal class including the distribution of solution manuals.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of March 14 were approved.
The 120-130 Committee consisting of Porta, Armstrong, Dornhoff, Wetzel, and Paley (chair) submitted a syllabus consisting of selected sections of the first 10 chapters of Stewart, Calculus, Early Transcendentals. This is essentially a course in the calculus of functions of a single variable. The committee approved the syllabus.
Alternate syllabi were presented for the version of Math 134 to be taught in the format of two lectures, two recitations per week. The committee consisted of Alfio Giarlotta, Marjorie Obermayer, Karl Schmidt, and Eva Gray, chair. The committee selected a version which gives maximum descretion to the lecturer in coordinating the work.
The committee on Harvard calculus (Hoit, Miles, Jockusch, and McCarthy (chair) has selected the Ostebee-Zorn text to use in place of that currently in use. A syllabus is in preparation. The report of the committee was accepted.
Weichsel reported on ads to appear in the Daily Illini, one will describe the lecture version of 242 to be offered in the Fall, the other to outline the options for doing the calculus (Standard, Mathematica, Harvard) in particular indicating the variety of courses offered via Mathematica. It was mentioned that in the future it would be useful to advertise upper level courses that need attention.
There was a general discussion about the problem of scheduling classes that are not offered every semester and whether some should be cut back. These questions are related to the next items.
The committee approved a motion to allow Math 346 to be used in lieu of Math 348 in the Graduate Preparatory Option. The nature of Math 332 came under discussion. Weinberg reminded the committee that he had brought the same question before a committee consisting of himself and two other faculty members who had taught the course; they felt the course required little change. Some members of UAC disagree.
Weichsel brought up a proposal made earlier by Weinberg that 303 be allowed to satisfy the Geometry requirement in the Teacher Education curricula. Weinberg pointed out that he had presented such a proposal to the Geometry Area Committee which rejected the suggestion.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of April 3 were approved. Weinberg pointed out that the minutes of March 14 contained an error: The reference to Math 378 should be replaced by Math 376 in the discussion of the Honors Program for Actuarial Science.
It was decided that Weichsel and Weinberg should come up with a scheme to rationalize the offerings of courses given only once a year.
The question of allowing Math 303, Topics in Euclidean Geometry, to be used to satisfy the Geometry requirement for students in the Teacher Education curriculum (option) was raised again. According to the chair of the Geometry Area committee the proposal was rejected because the course did not have a fixed syllabus. The UAC seemed to disagree with this position. Weinberg, who made the original proposal, has urged that we not act unilaterally but look for concensus on this matter.
It was moved and approved that this committee recommend to the Graduate Affairs Committee and the Executive Committee that Math 348 be dropped from the curriculum. Ciri recommended the same action at its last meeting. We are assuming that a one semester real and complex review course will be set up for incoming graduate students with deficiencies.
Questions involving the change to Ostebee-Zorn in the Collaborative Learning sections of 120-130 were discussed. A syllabus is still in the making. It was decided to have the printout of numerical answers to the odd numbered problems shrinkwrapped with the text. In order to make decisions concerning scheduling for the fall 130, Weinberg was requested to poll the current Harvard 120 instructors to see how many students intend to continue in this format in 130.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of April 11 were approved.
Because the 242-243-280 committee is undecided as to what to do for a text for 242, we will have the bookstores stock the one volume edition of Stewart.
The committee undertook an extensive discussion of the question of setting departmental policy on the use of calculators, particularly graphing calculators, for homework and/or exams. The discussion was instigated by Peter Braunfeld who pointed out that there has been some concern expressed by students about policies not being consistent from class to class. He points out that they are used on the AP exams, that they are ubiquitous in high schools, that they are 'required' by the NCTM standards. Many students and their parents are surprised that we do not use them. Some policies at other places: Parkland requires graphing calculators, they are not generally used at Purdue, Indiana lets the professor decide, while at Wisconsin calculators are marked in the timetable; Purdue requires calculators in the precalculus classes. He concludes that (1) We should give thought as to what role calculators should play, (2) Whatever position is reached, a policy paper should be drawn up and distributed, and (3) We should consult the Engineering Liaison committee. Various members commented. Uhl indicated that calculus based courses need appropriate course materials not just ad hoc calculator problems in the problem list, that TAs (and faculty) would need training in the use of the calculators, and that any decision must be acceptable to the faculty. Weichsel said that the use of calculators on homework and exams are separate issues, and that if students are allowed to use calculators then they must be required. Porta feels that students should be consulted on these matters, that the issue depends upon the course and how the instructor feels.
Jerry Uhl proposes to offer a version of 315 taught using Mathematica. The approach to the material is different from that of the standard course and resembles that currently offered in the Mathematica version of Math 225. Weinberg expressed reservations that the course might not be sufficiently different from the C&M 225 to merit the possibility of a total of 5 hours credit, that generally speaking the standard section of 315 is taught at a higher level than the standard 225. Uhl said that he would make a strong effort to make the same distinction. With that assurance the committee approved an experimental section for the Spring of 1998.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of April 18 were approved.
The committee returned to the question of whether Math 348 should be dropped from the curriculum. Jack Wetzel gave strong arguments for its continuation. Although there was strong sympathy for reconsidering the matter, motions to withdraw the earlier recommendations for action to the Executive Committee failed to win a majority.
The committee approved a recommendation to adopt texts by Larson and Hostettler, Trigonometry for Math 114 and Precalculus for Math 116
Further discussion on the use of calculators was deferred.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary
The minutes of the meeting of April 25 were approved.
Discussion of the use of Math 303 to satisfy the geometry requirement for students in the Teacher Education Option was deferred until such time as the Geometry people can rethink their position.
There was nothing to report from the 242-243-280 committee.
A syllabus was presented for the Ostebee-Zorn text to be used in the Collaborative Learning sections of Math 120-130. Both classes will begin using it in the Fall of 1997.
A motion to recommend that students be allowed at most 4 hours credit towards graduation for taking both Math 225 and Math 315 was passed 6-0. Paley will see that the recommendation is brought before the Engineering Liaison committee.
A request from Graham Evans that he be allowed to integrate some appropriate material on music into his Math 119 section in the Fall was approved.
Weinberg proposed a revision of the honors proposal for students in the Teacher Education Option. This is motivated by the fact that these students have extremely crowded programs. The revision resembles but goes beyond the requirements of the expiring Combined Science&Letters/Teaching of Math curriculum, which was essentially an honors program. The revised requirements would be identical to those proposed earlier for Mathematics majors except, instead of requiring a math seminar course and four courses from a distinguished list, we would require only two courses from the list and that they be required to do either Physics 111 and 112 or Chemistry 107, 108, 109, 110 for their Physical Science requirement. The Senior Project would still be required and the same grade point requiremements as the Mathematics Honors program would be in force.
Weichsel and Paley will draw up a statement about the use of calculators in the classes.
The Chair announced that the work of the committee was concluded for this year, although if something of importance came up before August 20, when next year's committee would assume its duties, he would call a special meeting. The Chair expressed his appreciation to committtee members for their work during the year, making special note of the contributions of the Director of the Undergraduate Program.
Respectfully Submitted,
Elliot Weinberg, secretary