Welcome to . . .

This course focuses on the study and mathematical modeling of biological systems. Through a host of biological and medical applications, the rudiments of calculus are developed. Concepts include measuring the slope of a curve, writing equations of tangent lines, maximizing and minimizing a function, determining the rate of change of a function, and measuring the area under a curve. Solution techniques, both analytic and numeric, for difference and differential equations are utilized. Modeling activities are heavily emphasized. Qualitative analysis of solutions of differential equations is incorporated in modeling activities. Application areas include mathematical physiology, pharmacology, cell biology, and population biology. After completing this course, you should be able to:  Model biological and medical phenomena using difference equations. Evaluate limits of functions using graphs, tables, and algebraic methods. Demonstrate the use of limits to determine continuity of a function at a point. Determine differentiability of a function at a point using limits and graphs. Demonstrate the use of the limit definition to find the derivative. Differentiate algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Produce equations of tangent lines. Demonstrate the use of derivatives to describe the behavior of a function. Apply derivatives in biological and medical applications. Antidifferentiate algebraic, exponential, and trigonometric functions. Apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus to find the area under a curve and between two curves. Solve differential equations. Solve systems of differential equations. Interpret solutions of differential equations. Model biological and medical phenomena using the concepts of calculus and algebra. Analyze mathematical models for some select biological and medical phenomena. Compare and contrast competing models for a biological/medical scenario. Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in  Math 171 (College Algebra) AND Math 172 (Trigonometry) OR Math 173 (Precalculus) or equivalent Textbook:  Modeling the Dynamics of Life: Calculus & Probability for Life Scientists; Fred Adler; Brooks/Cole, 1998, 2nd edition. Supplies:  A scientific calculator is required, graphing capabilities are desirable.

Mike Martin Associate Professor of Mathematics You can reach me . . .   in my office:  GEB 153 H by email:  mmartin@jccc.net by phone:  913-469-8500 ext 3369 by FAX:  913-469-2584

What do I need in the way of books, calculators, and computers to succeed?

You will need the calculus book referenced above and a calculator that will evaluate the exponential and trigonometric functions (typically called a scientific calculator).  If your calculator has "sin," "cos," and "tan" buttons then you should be fine.  In addition, a calculator with graphing capabilities has some appeal, but we can and will make use of your computer for graphing visualizations, too.  For those about to purchase a calculator, I would recommend a TI-83.

As to computers, you needn't have a powerhouse.  If your computer will run either Netscape Navigator or Internet Explorer, then you should be fine.  You'll also need access to have an email account that will allow you to attach files to a message.  If you are using AOL (or actually any software that you can update for free), you should make sure that you have the latest version.  If you have software that will cost you to update, check with the JCCC bookstore as they often can offer a significantly lower price than anywhere else.  You will need a program to read pdf files and another to view Apple QuickTime videos (details on and links for this will be found in our course materials).

What does the course entail?

Since I have taught this course both on campus and over the net, I try to make sure that we accomplish the same goals in either setting.  However, we reach those goals in very different ways.  For the online course, you'll be working through several modules, each of which includes some suggested-but-not-required homework assignments, an on-line homework quiz, and an open-book exam.  You will download each exam, print them out, complete the exam, and return it to me by regular mail or fax.  You will also have a comprehensive midterm and final examination -- a requirement for any math course at JCCC.  The midterm and final will be taken at JCCC's testing center.  Arrangments can be made at the beginning of the semester for an alternate setting, but this must utilize a testing center sanctioned by the Consortium of College Testing Centers and may involve additional fees to be paid to that testing center.  You will have access to course discussion boards and chatrooms to provide student-to-student and additional student-to-instructor contact.

What are the deadlines?

To be flexible, this course is designed with only one hard deadline, the one at the end of the semester.  TOn-line delivery allows people to structure their work around their schedule.  Although this course's delivery is unique, the course content and pace is the same as that for the traditional classroom offering.  This on-line course is NOT a self-paced course, but instead abides by a week-by-week schedule of posted materials and individual responsibilities.  If you're a procrastinator, beware.  You have the option of working ahead, so if you know of times when your job or personal life will present special demands you can plan accordingly.

When do we meet?

It's an online course, so we don't meet.  Many courses have an introductory meeting.  This one does not.  However, I normally set up a time when students can drop in to Math Resource Center's (MRC) computer lab for some technical assistance within the first couple of weeks of the term.  Also, I am available for scheduled office hours and much longer (and earlier) on most days of the semester.  During the early weeks, I will apprise the class of my schedule.

Is this course for me?

I don't know the answer to that, but here are some questions to ask yourself.  Are you a self-starter?  Are you fairly proficient with basic computer applications?  Are you someone who works well independently?  Can you understand written (as opposed to spoken) directions well?  If you can answer "yes" to all of those, then you stand a good chance of success.

What if I have a disability?

Both the college and the instructor are dedicated to accomodating anyone covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act.  If this pertains to you, you will need to contact Student Services first.  Upon notification from them, I will happily work out accomodations with you.

Can I get any additional information?

A syllabus for the course may be found at the following link:  On-Line Calculus for Biology & Medicine Syllabus.

An addendum to the syllabus that details some of the technical aspects of the course may be found at Addendum to the Syllabus.
 

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