Calculus has traditionally been a student’s introduction to and foundation for higher level mathematics. Unfortunately, standardization and test-focused instruction have allowed many to master the curriculum without any appreciation for the why, the beauty, and the impact of this subject on our world. This course will cover the common topics of limits, continuity, derivatives, integrals, and the fundamental theorem of calculus, along with their basic applications, but will seek to ground the material in the historical development of modern mathematics and real world mathematical modeling. To do this we will take a hands-on approach, solving problems and playing with ideas together as a team using free advanced software and programming languages. The tail portion of the course will be focused on modeling dynamical systems with differential equations. The essential role of calculus in the success of modern artificial intelligence algorithms such as neural networks will be briefly discussed. A strong grasp of high school level algebra and trigonometry along with an open and inquisitive mind are prerequisites for this course.
**NOTE: This class has the option for dual enrollment. When enrolling, participants will be asked to select whether or not they would like to take this course for college credit. If taking the course for credit, a fee will be charged to offset the costs associated with accreditation, though we estimate these fees at near a third the cost to take the course independently. Additional assignments may be required of those opting to take it for college credit and traditional numeric grades will be given. College credit will be through Tompkins Cortland Community College for MATH201. This also fulfills the SUNY General Education Mathematics requirement.**
Instructor: Nicholas LaVigne
Instructor Bio: My background is in applied mathematics, which I studied at SUNY Geneseo and Cornell University. I currently work as a data scientist at Ursa Space Systems where I develop geospatial analytics, data fusion products, and machine learning models, heavily focused on Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite imagery.
Required Materials: pencil; notebook and folder or looseleaf notebook; laptop computer for in-class use; Infinite Powers: How Calculus Reveals the Secrets of the Universe by Steven Strogatz
Dual Enrollment Fee: $175 for those desiring college credit
TEEN DAY Ithaca 