Math 237 syllabus

Linear Algebra

Course Description: This course provides an introduction to linear algebra. Topics include systems of linear equations, matrices, Gaussian elimination, rank, linear independence, subspaces, basis, dimension, linear transformations, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, change of basis, diagonalization, the abstract concept of a vector space, and applications. Core Course.
Prerequisites: C or better in MA 126

Textbook:  Elementary Linear Algebra with Applications by Kolman and Hill,
Linear Algebra by Hefferon, available at http://joshua.smcvt.edu/linearalgebra/book.pdf .

Learning outcomes: Upon the successful completion of the course a student will:
Solve systems of linear equations.
Determine whether or not a set with given operations is a vector space or a subspace of another vector space.
Determine properties of sets of vectors such as whether they are linearly independent, whether they span, and whether they are a basis of a given subspace.
Perform fundamental operations in the algebra of matrices, including multiplying and inverting matrices.
Use and apply algebraic properties of a linear transformation.
Determine geometric information about a linear transformation, including computing determinants, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors.