Groups Rings and Vector Spaces I, MAS5307, Fall 2020.

Location: online

Time: MWF 9:05-9:55.

Instructor: Dr. Mark van Hoeij

Text: Abstract Algebra, 3nd edition, by David Dummit and Richard Foote.

Course web page. The primary web page is on Canvas. Assignments/quizzes/tests will go through Canvas. Sample tests will be posted here.

Grading: There will be 3 tests and a final exam. A significant part (to be detailed soon) of the grade will be based on homework and quizzes. Tests, HW and quizzes will be turned in and graded through Canvas. I plan to have frequent short quizzes to make sure everyone is keeping up with the course. These quizzes will be a significant part of the grade. Quizzes will have two types of questions: (I) questions that everyone who watched the material would know, and (II) more difficult questions. If you miss a question in category (II) then you will be given a second chance so you can still get maximal credit for the quiz. If you can't answer a HW question and let me know on time, then I'll post hints so you can still turn in the HW for maximal credit. Similarly, if you get a HW question wrong, you'll get a second chance for maximal credit.

Exam policy: There will be no makeup tests or quizzes. A missed test can only be excused before the day of the test, and you will need a good reason with proof. When a missed test is excused, the grade of the test will be the same as the grade on your final. A missed test will not be excused on or after the day of the test, and a non-excused missed test means zero points.

Course objectives: This is the first of a two semester graduate algebra course. Students should be able to understand the material abstractly, as well as be able to apply it in concrete situations.

honor code: A copy of the University Academic Honor Code can be found in the current Student Handbook. You are bound by this in all of your academic work. It is based on the premise that each student has the responsibility 1) to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity in the student's own work, 2) to refuse to tolerate violations of academic integrity in the University community, and 3) to foster a high sense of integrity and social responsibility on the part of the University community. You have successfully completed many mathematics courses and know that on a "test" you may not give or receive any help from a person or written material except as specifically designed acceptable. Out of class you are encouraged to work together on assignments but plagiarizing of the work of others or study manuals is academically dishonest.

ADA: Students with disabilities needing academic accommodations should: 1) register with and provide documentation to the Student Disability Resource Center (SDRC); 2) bring a letter to the instructor from SDRC indicating you need academic accommodations. This should be done within the first week of class. This and other class materials are available in alternative format upon request.