Student Requirements (2005)
Access to a Internet from a multimedia computer with at least 28,800 modem speed at the beginning.
Windows media player, any version. Most computers already have it installed. If not, this CAN be downloaded from Microsoft if you search for media player. You can save a little time if you also download the 'codecs' package while you're there. It is available for MACs also, but not included in MAC's operating system. .
Have studied Mathematics and completed the first two courses in a college-level Calculus sequence with a reasonable achievement level.
A browser, Netscape or Explorer Versions 3.0, preferably 4.0 or higher.
Lots of time to spend on homework (6-12 hours weekly in a 15 week semester).
A First Course In Differential Equations with Modeling Applications Dennis G Zill 7th edition. It can be purchased from Amazon Books or Barnes and Noble (look for a used copy?), but Allegany College of Maryland bookstore has good pricing. Call 301 784 5348 and get a quote to compare. Let me know ASAP if you have trouble finding this book.
Ability to mail or fax homework problems.
Access to a secure exam situation. If you are local, you can use the 'IAC' lab at Allegany College in Cumberland in the Humanities building.
Some form of Computer Algebra System (Derive, Maple, Mathematica, Mathcad (preferred)) or at least a graphing calculator is advisable. A calculator is probably your cheapest option. None of these are required, I'm just trying to make the manipulations less time-consuming, and simplify questions/answers.
Free conferencing software such as NetMeeting, for asking questions of the instructor. There is a MAC software item from Netopia called 'Timbuktu Conference' that is said to be compatible with NetMeeting, but I haven't tried it. If you wonder if you already have NetMeeting, search for conf.exe on your PC.
Free messenger software AOL instant messenger . Instructor and students will find on-line compatible times via email for office hours using these. Give me you messenger name ASAP, I'll put it on the website. Note: you are encouraged to use each other as well as the instructor as resources!
Recommend student version (or better) of MathCad software. You'll likely have to buy this, or find a buddy and split the cost. It is a math word processor/symbolic manipulator/spreadsheet all rolled into one, and you will find it useful. HW and HW questions can be emailed to me in mathcad format. If you are distant from the local area in the summer, I can email exams in this format.
I would strongly suggest to the student that you listen and take notes as you would in a regular class, and listen to the audio when you have a link. During or after the entire lecture has been viewed/listened to, take links to other sites that have pertinent information, and check the problems you were to attempt on your own. Part of the learning process is to actually do the problems. If you merely take the links to see how I have worked out the problems, you will not learn the material as well, and may have major difficulties with the homework. Of course, you can revisit the lessons at any time, and most homework problems will be similar to worked out problems in the lecture. Check them out again if you get stuck on a homework problem.