Syllabus for 2022 Vector Calculus I

Course name:
Vector Calculus I
Course number:
MTH 254.
Instructor:
Tevian Dray
Course credits:
4
Class meeting times:
4 hours per week
Prerequisites:
MTH 252: Integral Calculus
Course description:
Vectors, vector functions, and curves in two and three dimensions. Surfaces, partial derivatives, gradients, and directional derivatives. Multiple integrals in rectangular, polar, cylindrical, and spherical coordinates. Physical and geometric applications.
Learning resources:
Textbook: The Geometry of Vector Calculus
Website: MTH 254
Learning outcomes:
  • 1) Represent vectors both algebraically and geometrically and be able to use vector methods effectively in problem solving.
  • 2) Use the dot and cross product to solve problems in a geometrical or physical setting.
  • 3) Apply partial derivatives, directional derivatives, and gradients to solve problems of multivariable differential calculus such as max-min prob- lems and rates of change of physical processes in space.
  • 4) Evaluate multiple integrals in rectangular, polar, spherical, and cylin- drical coordinates.
  • 5) Use vector functions to analyze particle motion (position vectors, com- ponents of acceleration) and to represent curves parametrically.
  • 6) Integrate and differentiate vector functions.
Course content:
  • 1) Multiple integrals
  • 2) Curvilinear coordinates
  • 3) Vectors
  • 4) Partial derivatives
  • 5) Gradient
  • 6) Optimization
See also course schedule.
Evaluation of student performance:
See the MTH 254 website.
Academic calendar:
All students are subject to the registration and refund deadlines as stated in the Academic Calendar: https://registrar.oregonstate.edu/osu-academic-calendar
Statement regarding students with disabilities:
Accommodations for students with disabilities are determined and approved by Disability Access Services (DAS). If you, as a student, believe you are eligible for accommodations but have not obtained approval please contact DAS immediately at 541-737-4098 or at http://ds.oregonstate.edu. DAS notifies students and faculty members of approved academic accommodations and coordinates implementation of those accommodations. While not required, students and faculty members are encouraged to discuss details of the implementation of individual accommodations.
Expectations of student conduct:
Students are expected to comply with the University code of conduct, available at https://beav.es/codeofconduct.
Student bill of rights

OSU has twelve established student rights. They include due process in all university disciplinary processes, an equal opportunity to learn, and grading in accordance with the course syllabus: https://asosu.oregonstate.edu/advocacy/rights

Reach out for success:
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