Mathematics in the Modern World Course Syllabus

Mathematics in the Modern World Course Syllabus

Course Title: Mathematics in the Modern World

Course Description: This course aims to introduce students to the role of mathematics in the modern world. Students will explore how mathematics is used to solve real-world problems in various fields, such as finance, medicine, and technology. The course will also cover some of the history and philosophy of mathematics, as well as current debates and challenges in the field.

Prerequisites: None

Course Outline:

  1. Introduction to the Course and the Role of Mathematics in the Modern World
    • What is Mathematics?
    • The Importance of Mathematics in Various Fields
    • Historical and Philosophical Perspectives on Mathematics
  2. Mathematics in Finance and Economics
    • Simple and Compound Interest
    • Present Value and Future Value
    • Stocks and Bonds
    • Risk Management and Insurance
  3. Mathematics in Medicine and Healthcare
    • Epidemiology and Public Health
    • Biostatistics and Clinical Trials
    • Medical Imaging and Diagnostic Testing
    • Modeling and Simulation in Healthcare
  4. Mathematics in Technology and Engineering
    • Coding and Cryptography
    • Data Science and Machine Learning
    • Robotics and Automation
    • Optimization and Control Theory
  5. Current Debates and Challenges in Mathematics
    • The Reproducibility Crisis
    • The Gender Gap in Mathematics
    • The Ethics of Mathematics
    • The Future of Mathematics in Society

Assessment:

  • Assignments and Quizzes: 40%
  • Midterm Exam: 20%
  • Final Exam: 40%

Textbook: Mathematics in the Modern World by James Tanton (Wiley, 2019)

Please note that this syllabus is tentative and subject to change based on the needs of the class and the instructor's discretion.