Course Notes

Dr. Joseph Manthey
Visiting Assistant Professor of Mathematics
St.  Joseph College
McDonough Hall, Room 307
Hartford, CT 06117
Phone:  (860) 231-5603
Email: jmanthey@sjc.edu

Overview

Welcome to my web page.  I am a Visiting Assistant Professor of Mathematics at St. Joseph College.  I have a Ph.D. in Applied and Computational Mathematics from Old Dominion University.  I am currently interested in using technology and web page development.

Philosophy of Education

EXCELLENCE:  One of the most challenging aspects of teaching is the very broad range of interests and abilities of students. My choice is to set the standards of learning based upon what prepared and motivated students have achieved in the past. This ensures high and reasonable expectations.
WRITING:  Math students can become adept at pushing symbols around without being aware of their true meaning or importance. This is becoming less and less acceptable since computers and even some calculators are capable of performing the basic operations of algebra and calculus. Mechanical skills are still important but the emphasis must broaden to include meaning.
TECHNOLOGY:  Most business students will place in jobs requiring proficiency in the use of word processors, spreadsheets and databases. Most engineering and math students will be expected to know how to use mathematical software and how to program in C++. Requiring students to develop and use these skills enhances their marketability.

Course Notes

Course Syllabi (Fall 2003)

Effective Study Habits

Success is not arbitrary. Successful people have very specific attitudes and behaviors. By modeling what successful people have done we can reproduce the success experience.
EFFORT:  Successful people understand that true achievement comes only after applying significant effort over extended periods of time. A sufficient number of small increases in mental or physical ability can produce amazing long term changes. People who survive graduate school, medical school, sports training, military training, martial arts or Calculus I learn a powerful lesson: persistence eventually leads to success. It would be a serious error in judgment to think that success will follow easily and naturally after effort. It is essential to put forth the effort even when the results are not immediately evident. This requires faith and character. A serious student should be willing to devote an average of six hours a week outside of class to preparing for a three credit course.
TECHNIQUE:  Proper technique ensures that you receive the most for your effort. The proper technique begins with a positive attitude. Whenever possible study with people who have a generally positive attitude about life and who share your educational goals. Write summary sheets and develop concept maps for each chapter. Study the examples presented in class and ask questions to resolve any ambiguities. Ask your questions as they occur since it is much easier to keep up than it is to catch up. Mathematics is cumulative and only way to progress to the next level is to achieve mastery of the previous level. Learn the necessary formulas and procedures before attempting the homework and use the homework as practice for the exams.
LIFESTYLE FACTORS:  Success in school requires focus. Maintaining the required continuity of effort is easier if you are eating properly, exercising and sleeping enough.