MAT 155  Quantitative Reasoning

Description
This is an introductory course in arithmetical, geometric and algebraic analysis that introduces students to the place of mathematics in the quest for truth in the conversation of Western civilization. It is designed to equip students to understand basic issues in economics, financial management, business, science, and public policy in a way that sensitizes them to the use and abuse of mathematical reasoning in the public square. Beginning with standard arithmetical, geometric and algebraic concepts and manipulations, quantitative analytical skills will be extended to more complex quantitative analysis focused on applications of linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions, as well as systems of linear equations, infinite sequences and series, basic combinatorial analysis, and elementary probability theory. Prerequisite: No prerequisite, though passing high school grades in algebra I and geometry or their equivalents would be very helpful. Students who take MAT 155 for credit may not take MAT 160 for credit.

Objectives
After successfully completing this course, students will

• Be comfortable with some of the most common objects in mathematics that we will be studying: the natural numbers, linear equations, functions, sequences, the idea of probability, etc., and be able to apply them in practical ways (for example, in the study of economics).
• Have a sense of the history of mathematics, and its place in history and society as a whole.
• Be able to identify the use of mathematics in public discourse, and especially be able to evaluate and critique arguments based on probability and statistics.

Instructor

Brian Stout studied at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. He holds a B.S. in Marine Transportation and is completing his Ph.D. at City University of New York. Brian has 3 years of experience teaching Pre-Algebra, College Algebra, Pre-Calculus and Calculus 1. Originally from north Texas, Brian and his wife now reside in New York.