Overview

This course will cover a number of elementary topics in the theory of ordinary differential equations: initial value problems, exact and approximate solution techniques, basic existence and uniqueness theorems, fundamental sets of solutions and linear independence, series expansions and Laplace transforms. Topics in boundary value problems, Fourier series and partial differential equations may also be covered as time permits. The course is directed at students in the engineering and physical sciences, and its objective is to expose students to the basic methods for solving differential equations that arise in applications.

Policies

Homeworks: There will be 12 assignments. The assignments will be posted on Blackboard on Wednesdays during discussion session. The two lowest assignment's grades will be dropped. The homework will be graded but you will be responsible for knowing the material in the homework, and for being able to apply this knowledge during exams. To determine how well you are doing on the homework, you are encouraged to attend discussion section and ask questions, take advantage of office hours, work in study groups and so on.
Please note, LATE homework will NOT be accepted. For questions regarding your assignments you will have to contact the teaching assistant.


Exams: There will be 4 exams in total. Three of them will be in-class exams. The fourth exam is comprehensive and will be held during the time and place scheduled by the University for the Final Examination. The tentative dates are

Exam #1 (February 11), Exam #2 (March 23), Exam #3 (April 15), Final Exam (Saturday, May 15, 9:00-12:00 noon, classroom TBA!!).

Exams #1, #2 and #3 will be held during regular class hour. Please bring your valid UT ID card to all exams.


Course grade: Your overall course grade will be determined by your homework and exam grades in the following proportions

Homework (20%), Exam #1 (18%), Exam #2 (18%), Exam #3 (18%), Final Exam (26%).


Grade scale: If necessary, exam grades will be curved to achieve a class average equivalent to 75/100 points or thereabouts. The overall course grade will be based on a standard grading scale (A=100-90%, B=89-80%, C=79-70%, D=69-60%, F=59-0%).


Make-up policy: There will not be make-up exams, except only in very compelling circumstances or when the University requires me to do so. If circumstances beyond your control cause you to miss an exam, please discuss the matter with me as soon as possible. Failure to contact me (by person, phone or email) within 24 hours of missing an exam will eliminate the possibility of any make-up.


Students with disabilities: The University of Texas at Austin provides upon request appropriate academic accommodations for qualified students with disabilities. For more information, contact the Office of the Dean of Students at 471-6259, 471-4641 TTY.


Drop dates: The last day to drop the course without possible academic penalty is February 15, 2010. The last day to drop the course for academic reasons is March 29, 2010. After this, students may go to the Dean's office to appeal for non-academic reasons.

Tentative Schedule