Salisbury University - Fall 2009

Professor : Michael Bardzell

Text: A First Course in Abstract Algebra (Seventh Edition), by John Fraleigh, Addison Wesley, 2003.

Office: Henson Hall 132 A

Office Hours: - Monday 1:30 - 2:30, Tuesday 10:00 - 11:00, Thursday 9:00 - 11:00 and 1:30 - 2:30 or by appointment.

Telephone : 410-543-6474 (Office)

Email : mjbardzell@salisbury.edu

Course Goals: There are two objectives that I have for this course. The first is to introduce the student to some of the fundamental concepts of modern algebra. By the end of the semester you should have a broader understanding of the role of algebra in modern mathematics. Understanding the role of definitions and proof in mathematics is fundamental to the understanding of the subject. Consequently, the second objective is to provide the students the opportunity to read and write proofs. Writing clear and precise mathematical arguments will be a key component of this course.

Topics Covered: The major topic to be covered this semester is group theory.  Along the way we will see some of the classic results of algebra including Lagrange's Theorem, the Fundamental Theorem of Finitely Generated Abelian Groups, Cayley's Theorem, and the First Isomorphism Theorem. To prove these results (and others) we will develop some mathematical machinery that includes equivalence relations, permutations, subgroups, quotient groups, homomorphisms, and applications to symmetry. 

Tests and Homework : There will be 2 tests and a final exam. No make-up tests will be given. Certain homework problems will also be collected and graded. Others will be presented by students in class. The time and care spent on the homework problems usually determines how a student performs in this course. Abstract algebra cannot be learned without working through numerous homework problems.

Computer Project: The class will be divided into groups for a semester long project involving the use of specialized software and applications to abstract algebra. Possible software includes PascGaloisJE, Maple (applications to cryptography?), Mathematica, and GAP. Maple and Mathematica are availble on the SU network. PascGaloisJE and GAP are freeware. More detailed guidelines for this project will be forthcoming.

Maple Group        Mathematica Group        GAP Group        PascGalois Group

Grading : The final exam will count 25%, the tests will count 12.5% each, the homework average will count 30%, and the computer project will count 20%. 90% guarantees an A, 80% a B, 70% a C, and 60% a D. If these cutoffs are adjusted downward it will be done at the end of the semester.

H1N1 Flu: Please note that there is concern about an unusually high number of influenza cases this year. In the event of a pandemic emergency or university closure, I will be communicating specific information to you about this course via email. I will use the official email class list associated with this course to do so. Therefore, it is imperative that you check your campus email account regularly (xy12345@salisbury.edu) or have all email from that account forwarded to an email account that you do check regularly. While general information about the flu impacts on our academic and other programs will be communicated by SU's Central Administration, I will be communicating all revisions to assignments, quiz and exam dates, and class and grading policies. Depending on the length of any campus-wide closure, I might also provide review assignments shortly before the university reopens. You will be responsible for completing these assignments in accordance with my class policies, as revised to accommodate for the closure.

Honor System: You must follow the University Policy on Academic Integrity.