MICHAEL MARTIN

TEACHING PROFILE ::.:.:.

Class Format – Moderately fast-paced, whole-group sessions with an emphasis on conceptual understanding.  Computational examples, applications, and theory are prominent in the discussion.  Students are expected to participate and occasional small groupwork is assigned.

Evaluation – The actual grading depends on the course, but may be broken down, roughly, as follows:

• Homework/Projects:  Homework is assigned daily in class.  Students are to keep a notebook to compile their homework.  Students are to ask any questions as they progress through the homework.  Periodically, the homework notebook is submitted for grading.  Typically, homework counts 10-20% of the grade.  Late homework is not accepted.  Projects are assigned in most classes and usually involve applications, modeling, and/or writing. 
• Tests/Quizzes:  Designed to assess mastery of the basic concepts and foundations of a course.  Primarily, the questions are of a work-out nature.  Speed is usually not an issue.  Tests/quizzes usually count about 60% of the grade.  Tests and quizzes are given either in class or over the internet.
• Final Exam:  Required to  be taken by every student.  The final is cumulative and will count 20-30% of the grade.  In some classes a midterm is given as well.

Attendance – Your absence may affect your grade because of a subsequent lack of knowledge and understanding; however, attendance is not a part of the grading formula.  No absence is excused in the sense that you are exempt from work missed or assignments made while you were absent.  Course materials and assignments are posted on the web, so there are a variety of means to keep up with the course.  Although not required, your attendance and participation is, of course, expected.

Technology – Appropriate, responsible use of technology in the classroom and study of mathematics is an objective of mine.  I require only a scientific calculator in my classes, but do not preclude other calculator models from being used.  Examinations require that all work must be shown to receive credit and some examinations have two parts (one without calculators and the other with them).  Most courses utilizae web-based technologies and/or software for classroom demonstrations and/or homework inquiries.  Some of the software I use include Excel, Mathematica, Matlab, and XPPAUT.

Online courses – Although course materials and assessments are presented in a different, more flexible environment, I still adhere to a schedule similar to the equivalent traditional course.  Web-based technologies, including publisher resources, are utilized when appropriate (in lieu of calculators and/or specific computer software).  You are urged to contact me directly regarding any deviations a specific online course may have from the traditional profile listed above.  Be sure to look through the COURSE INFO links on this page for specific online courses.

Additional Information – Follow the TEACHING INTERESTS and COURSE INFO links on this page for more complete background info and course-specific details.