Some students report that MATH 500 is the most difficult course of the math major. A main reason for this is that we don't spend time learning how to solve computational problems - you already did that in the calculus courses. Another reason is that the logic of calculus theorems can be particularly complex. Because of this, I generally advise students to take at least one other upper division theoretical math course before taking MATH 500, unless they feel they have strong logical skills.
Memorization is often frowned upon as a pedagogical tool. In my experience, however, memorizing logical statements and proofs helped to instill the logical structures of mathematics in my brain, and helped me develop my own proof-construction skills. In an ordinary, face-to-face, course, I give quizzes where you are required to write memorized definitions and statements of theorems. On tests I would require you to write proofs from lectures (chosen from a small list I give you ahead of time). However, this does not make sense when quizzes and exams are online and open-book. I still encourage you to memorize definitions, theorems, and proofs so that your brain has these as models when you write mathematics yourself.
You learn by doing, not just by watching. So homework is the most important part of the course. You should spend a lot of time on it, spread out through the week, and do it thoughtfully. I am particularly fussy about writing, and one of my main goals in the course is for you to develop clear, accurate, and logical writing. Improving your mathematical writing takes a lot of practice and a lot of time.
Please use the CVKey app for self-screening to help determine if you should attend in-person class meetings. If you choose not to use the app or do not have a compatible device, please use the paper health assessment form. The app and the paper form are available at https://cvkey.ku.edu
To protect all of us, everyone must wear a mask in the classroom as required by the Protect KU Pledge and by University policy. Violations of the mask policy in classrooms are treated as academic misconduct. If you come to class without a mask, I will ask you to put one on. If you do not put on a mask when asked, you will have to leave class. Violations will be reported, and consequences will follow, up to and including suspension from the course.
It is important that you spend the necessary time working in this course to achieve the expected outcomes by the end of the term. If you face challenges to fully participating at any time during the semester, please let me know, and please contact me if you expect to miss class. I am available and ready to support your success. Additionally, if you need to report an extended illness or serious accident, please contact Student Support and Case Management at course-adapt@ku.edu or 785-864-4060. A case manager will send email notifications to your instructor(s) on your behalf. When you are able, you will need to follow up with your professors to coordinate a temporary arrangement regarding missed instruction and coursework.