2007-2008
Academic Year Calendar of Events |
|
July 9, 2007
Admissions Visit Day
Prospective students are invited to discover the distinctive features that make Albion College a truly special and exciting place. Professors will be available at the departmental table to talk about courses, majors, undergraduate research, special opportunities, alumni success stories, and career options. Prospective students are encouraged to learn about how mathematics and computer science, in collaboration with other disciplines, will lead many of the technical advances during the 21st century.
See the admissions Visitation Day
page if you are interested.
August 16, 2007
SOAR 4 Mathematics Placement
All incoming Albion College students participate in Student Orientation, Advising, and
Registration (SOAR). During SOAR, students learn about the academic
expectations of our students, take a placement exams, and register for
their first semester courses.
The department administers a placement test based on the academic background of each student
to assist students in selecting the most appropriate mathematics and computer science courses
as possible.
See our webpage on
Preparation for Albion College
for more information on the placement process.
August 27, 2007
Admissions Visit Day
Prospective students are invited to discover the distinctive features that make Albion College a truly special and exciting place. Professors will be available at the departmental table to talk about courses, majors, undergraduate research, special opportunities, alumni success stories, and career options. Prospective students are encouraged to learn about how mathematics and computer science, in collaboration with other disciplines, will lead many of the technical advances during the 21st century.
See the admissions Visitation Day
page if you are interested.
August 30, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
An Introduction to Parallel Computing |
| Speaker |
David A. Reimann
Associate Professor and Chair
Mathematics and Computer Science
Albion College
Albion, MI
|
| Abstract |
Parallel computing employs the use of multiple processors and specialized algorithms to solve problems.
Using multiple processors has the potential to improve performance by dividing a task among several processors, thus reducing the amount of work each a processor, in turn reducing the time required to solve a problem.
An overview of historical and modern parallel computer architectures will be given.
Parallel computers are classified by their connection topology and control mechanisms.
The recent development of multi-core machines has the potential to deliver inexpensive parallel computing.
However, special algorithms must be developed that break a task into independent components.
Because the number and speed of communication channels between processors influences performance,
understanding how an algorithm affects communication of information among processors is critical in overall performance.
Examples of sequential and parallel algorithms to solve several tasks will be presented to help illustrate these concepts. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
September 6, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Planning for Graduate Study in Mathematics and Computer Science |
| Speaker |
David A. Reimann
Associate Professor and Chair
Mathematics and Computer Science
Albion College
Albion, MI
|
| Abstract |
A degree in mathematics or computer science is excellent preparation for graduate school in areas such as mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, finance, and law. Come learn about graduate school and options you will have to further your education after graduation. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
September 13, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Decoding Nazi Secrets - Part 1 |
| Speaker |
NOVA Video |
| Abstract |
Most historians agree that by enabling Allied commanders to eavesdrop on German plans, Station X shortened the war by 2 or 3 years. Its decoded messages played a vital role in defeating the U-boat menace, cutting off Rommel's supplies in North Africa, and launching the D-Day landings. Now, for the first time on television, a 2-hour NOVA Special tells the full story of Station X, drawing on vivid interviews with many of the colorful geniuses and eccentrics who attacked the Enigma. Wartime survivors recall such vivid episodes as the British capture of the German submarine U-110; one of its officers describes how he saved a book of love poems inscribed to his sweetheart but failed to destroy vital Enigma documents on board. Decoding Nazi Secrets also features meticulous period reenactments shot inside the original buildings at Station X, including recreations of the world's first computing devices that aided codebreakers with their breakthroughs. Station X not only helped reverse the onslaught of the Third Reich, but also laid the groundwork for the invention of the digital computer that continues to transform all our lives.
See http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/decoding/ for the companion website.
One important note: Cayley Rice has an ongoing research project related to codebreaking at Bletchly Park, the subject of this video. She is looking for students who might be interesting in working with her. Please come to the video and talk to her afterwards for more information. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
September 20, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Decoding Nazi Secrets - Part 2 |
| Speaker |
NOVA Video
|
| Abstract |
Most historians agree that by enabling Allied commanders to eavesdrop on German plans, Station X shortened the war by 2 or 3 years. Its decoded messages played a vital role in defeating the U-boat menace, cutting off Rommel's supplies in North Africa, and launching the D-Day landings. Now, for the first time on television, a 2-hour NOVA Special tells the full story of Station X, drawing on vivid interviews with many of the colorful geniuses and eccentrics who attacked the Enigma. Wartime survivors recall such vivid episodes as the British capture of the German submarine U-110; one of its officers describes how he saved a book of love poems inscribed to his sweetheart but failed to destroy vital Enigma documents on board. Decoding Nazi Secrets also features meticulous period reenactments shot inside the original buildings at Station X, including recreations of the world's first computing devices that aided codebreakers with their breakthroughs. Station X not only helped reverse the onslaught of the Third Reich, but also laid the groundwork for the invention of the digital computer that continues to transform all our lives.
See http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/decoding/ for the companion website.
One important note: Cayley Rice has an ongoing research project related to codebreaking at Bletchly Park, the subject of this video. She is looking for students who might be interesting in working with her. Please come to the video and talk to her afterwards for more information. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
September 27, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
An introduction to Harmonic Analysis and Dispersive Estimates for
Schrodinger Operators |
| Speaker |
William Green, Class of `05
Graduate Student
Mathematics
University of Illinois
Urbana-Champaign, IL
|
| Abstract |
Harmonic Analysis can be defined as roughly the branch of analysis that arose
from the study of Fourier Series and the Fourier Transform. An overview of
necessary concepts in analysis, harmonic analysis and spectral theory will be
given with an eye towards discussing estimates of certain Schrodinger
operators. We will discuss certain estimates of the solution operator to the
Schrodinger equation, generally concentrating on results in dimensions 3 and
higher. We will end with a discussion of some open questions in the field. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
September 28, 2007
Fine Arts/Humanities Visitation Day
Prospective students are invited to
discover the distinctive features that make Albion College a truly special and exciting place.
Professors will be available at the departmental table to talk about classes, majors,
undergraduate research, special programs, success of our alumni, and career options.
While this visitation day is designed for students interested in the humanities and arts,
there are many ways mathematics and computer science extends and enhances these areas.
Dutch artist M.C. Escher included many mathematical themes in his art.
Albion professor Martha O'Kennon has long been interested in computer translation of natural languages.
Albion is a great place to explore these connections.
See the admissions
Visitation Day
page if you are interested.
September 29, 2007
Homecoming
Join us following the homecoming football game for a reception in the newly renovated Palenske Hall. Students, alumni, and friends are invited for light refreshments and fellowship in room 229. See the homecoming schedule for more information.
October 11, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Exploring the Best Joke of the 19th Century: The History of Mathematics in Action |
| Speaker |
Deborah A. Kent
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Mathematics and Computer Science
Hillsdale College
Hillsdale, Michigan
|
| Abstract |
The story surrounding of Neptune's discovery provides an exciting
illustration of what historians of mathematics do. Neptune was first sighted
as a new planet on 23 September 1846 at the Berlin observatory. The
sensational news reached London a week later and the ensuing dispute created
one of the great (and ongoing) priority debates in the history of science.
About a month after the initial observation, word of the new planet also
arrived in America where the controversy captured both popular interest and
scientific attention. A handful of nineteenth-century scientists who shared
a vision for professionalizing science in America viewed the Neptune affair
as an opportunity to establish the legitimacy of American science in
response to perceived European scientific superiority. While European
administrators of science quibbled over the priority question, the Harvard
mathematician Benjamin Peirce considered an upstart American
scientist dared to question the mathematical particulars of the discovery.
Recent twentieth-century events and manuscript discoveries further
illuminate the story of planetary controversy. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
October 18, 2007
Pizza and Pamphlets
Pizza and Pamphlets is the event where the Mathematics and Computer Science Department provides information about spring courses in Mathematics and Computer Science. All Math majors/minors, Computer Science majors/minors, Math/Physics majors, Math/Econ majors, prospective majors, and friends of the department are invited to join us. This year the event will be held at 3:10 pm in Palenske 227. Bring your friends; bring your questions; bring your schedule.
We will also provide pizza and pop!
October 25, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Image reconstruction in multi-channel model under Gaussian noise |
| Speaker |
Veera Holdai
Doctoral Student
Mathematics
Wayne State University
Detroit, Mihcigan
|
| Abstract |
We will consider the problem of image reconstruction. Starting from some classical problems, we will gradually add some features to them. The main problem of image boundary reconstruction is double nonparametric due to multi-channel model and due to the object of estimation. The large sample asymptotics of the minimax risk will be discussed and asymptotically optimal estimator will be suggested. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
October 26, 2007
General Visitation Day
Prospective students are invited to
discover the distinctive features that make Albion College a truly special and exciting place.
Professors will be available at the departmental table to talk about classes, majors,
undergraduate research, special programs, success of our alumni, and career options.
Prospective students are encouraged to learn about how mathematics and computer science,
in collaboration with other disciplines, will lead many of the technical
advances during the 21st century.
See the admissions
Visitation Day
page if you are interested.
October 27, 2007
Michigan Undergraduate Mathematics Conference
The 10th annual
Michigan Undergraduate Mathematics Conference (MUMC)
will be held on Saturday, October 27th, 2007 at Michigan State
University. This year's conference will be held jointly with the
Midwest Quantitative Biology Conference. The keynote speaker, Michael S. Waterman, will talk on "Mathematics, Computers, and Genomes."
All undergraduate students attending the MUMC conference are invited to give 20 minute oral presentations on any area of mathematics, statistics or related discipline. Such areas include undergraduate research projects, interesting class projects, history of mathematics or expository talks on interesting mathematics. All presentations must be registered in advance, no later than 5 P.M. on Monday October 8, 2007.
Students intersted in participating should talk with Dr. Reimann.
November 1, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Abel's Impossibility Theorem |
| Speaker |
Susan J. Sierra
Graduate Student
Mathematics
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan
|
| Abstract |
You know the quadratic formula, but what about the cubic formula:
if
then
(for = 0, 1, or 2). Imagine having to memorize that for an exam!
There's also a quartic formula for fourth degree equations. You
may have heard, however, that there is no formula to solve a quintic
polynomial by adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, and taking
roots of the coefficients. This was proved by the great Norwegian
mathematican Niels Henrik Abel in 1824.
We'll talk about the elegant algebraic structures that encode
information about solving polynomials, do a bit of basic group theory
and Galois theory, and prove Abel's "impossibility theorem." Time
permitting, we'll end with some intriguing mathematical puzzles.
|
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
November 2, 2007
Science/Pre-Health Visitation Day
Albion College is hosting its annual science/pre-health visitation day.
Prospective students are invited to
discover the distinctive features that make Albion College a truly special and exciting place.
Stop at the departmental table to speak with professors about classes, majors, undergraduate research, special programs, and career options.
In addition, there will be an opportunity for several science related
activities, including some interesting activities related to mathematics and computer science.
See the admissions
Visitation Day
page if you are interested.
November 3, 2007
Michigan Autumn Take-Home Challenge
Current students are invited to particpate in the upcoming
Michigan Autumn Take-Home (MATH) Challenge.
Teams of 3 students from colleges in at least 6
states work for 3 hours Saturday morning on a set of 10 interesting problems.
Contact Mark Bollman for further information or to join one of the Albion teams.
November 8, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
How the DFA (deterministic finite automaton) is not |
| Speaker |
Thomas F. Piatkowski
Professor of Computer Science and Electrical and Computer Engineering
Department of Computer Science
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, Michigan
|
| Abstract |
Automata theory is one of the most mathematical areas of computer
science. Two of the important uses of automata are:
- to assist in the study and categorization of formal (computer) languages, and
- to specify system behavior standards for implementable discrete systems.
One of the simplest types of automaton is the deterministic finite
automaton (DFA) the type used to recognize "regular" languages.
Interestingly enough, the classical DFA is
- not deterministic,
- not finite, and
- not an automaton.
The details of this paradoxical contention will be explored using
concepts of state-system specification. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
November 9, 2007
2006 ACM East Central Region Programming Contest
The 2006 ACM East Central Region Programming Contest
will be held Friday and Saturday
at several sites around the midwest.
In the programming competition,
teams of up to three students work to solve as many problems in the least amount of time.
This year's competition will be held on Saturday November 10, 2007.
Contact David Reimann for further information!
November 15, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
The Fractal Calculus Project |
| Speaker |
Mark M. Meerschaert
Professor and Chairperson
Department of Statistics and Probability
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
|
| Abstract |
Fractional derivatives are almost as old as their integer-order cousins. Recently, fractional derivatives have found new applications in engineering, physics, finance, and hydrology. In physics, fractional derivatives are used to model anomalous diffusion, where a cloud of particles spreads differently than the classical Brownian motion model predicts. A probability model for anomalous diffusion is based on particle jumps with power law tails. The probability of a jump length larger than falls off like as . For these particle jumps have infinite variance, indicating a faster than usual spreading rate. Particle traces are random fractals whose dimension equals the power law tail exponent. A fractional diffusion equation for the concentration of particles at time and location takes a form
that can be solved via Fourier transforms. Fractional time derivatives model particle sticking or trapping in a porous medium. In finance, price jumps replace particle jumps, and the same models apply. In this talk, we give an introduction to this new area, starting from the beginning and ending with a look at ongoing research.
|
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
November 16, 2007
General Visitation Day
Prospective students are invited to
discover the distinctive features that make Albion College a truly special and exciting place.
Professors will be available at the departmental table to talk about classes, majors,
undergraduate research, special programs, success of our alumni, and career options.
Prospective students are encouraged to learn about how mathematics and computer science,
in collaboration with other disciplines, will lead many of the technical
advances during the 21st century.
See the admissions
Visitation Day
page if you are interested.
November 29, 2007
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Summer and Off-Campus Programs |
| Speaker |
David A. Reimann
Associate Professor
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
Albion College
|
| Abstract |
Have you ever wondered if you can study
mathematics and/or computer science off-campus?
Either during the summer or during the academic year? Each
year a number of high-quality academic opportunities are available
to Albion College students. Options include research/study internships
at
- academic institutions both within the United States and abroad,
- numerous federal government agencies, and
- a number of government scientific laboratories.
In this presentation we will tour a new portion of the Albion College Math/CS
website that illustrates these various opportunities as well as provide advice
on how to apply, deadlines, any other pertinent information. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
December 1, 2007
Sixty-Eigth Annual William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition
Current students are invited to particpate in the upcoming Putnam Competition.
The Putnam is North America's most prestigious undergraduate mathematics
competition, and involves a six-hour, twelve-question mathematics exam
given in two three-hour sessions on a Saturday morning.
Previous Putnam exam questions are available
on the AMC Putnam Directory.
Final exams will be a breeze in comparison to the Putnam exam.
Contact Mark Bollman for more information or to join the contest.
January 31, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Non-Inferiority: the Basics, a Saga, and Maybe an Opportunity |
| Speaker |
Tom C. Venable, Ph.D.
Lecturer
Department of Statistics
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan
|
| Abstract |
In clinical trials, using placebo is unethical in many therapeutic areas. In turn, non-inferiority studies are common. An experimental drug is compared against an active-control, that is, a gold standard. Simply said, we move from hypothesis testing to demonstrate that a new drug is superior to placebo to the use of confidence intervals to demonstrate that a new drug is not-inferior to the standard. However, these studies are challenging, especially in the necessary sample size, the choice of the standard and the margin itself, plus doing so in an extremely regulated environment.
This non-technical presentation includes the basics of superiority and non-inferiority study designs, their pros and cons, their methodologies, a non-inferiority story, plus an opportunity for continued research. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
February 7, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Computer Generated Effects for Film |
| Speaker |
Joseph Cavanaugh
Visual Effects Technical Director
Sony Imageworks
Los Angeles, CA
|
| Abstract |
The speaker will give an overview of how a blend of art and technology is used to create computer generated effects for film. These effects range from elemental effects such as fire and water to dynamics effects such as crumbling and breaking objects. He will touch on the basic application of the mathematics used to create computer generated effects. He will show examples from recent movies such as Beowulf and Spiderman 3. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
February 14, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
A Brief Introduction to Monte Carlo Simulations |
| Speaker |
Fatih Celiker
Assistant Professor
Mathematics
Wayne State University
Detroit, Michigan
|
| Abstract |
In this talk I will give a brief introduction to Monte Carlo
simulations. A short overview of some theoretical considerations will
be followed by numerous examples coming from various areas of math,
science, engineering, and finance. In their basic form, these
simulations are extremely easy to generate, and for that matter they
have found numerous applications in areas where randomness play a
crucial role. Some examples are, simulation of Bernoulli's experiments
(coin flip), the birthday problem, traffic flow, random walk, Brownian
motion, neutron shielding, financial option pricing, and insurance
pricing. Moreover, applications generalize to deterministic problems
such as computation of areas and volumes, approximating solutions of
partial differential equations, approximating the value of the number
mathematical constants such as pi and e, and optimization problems are
only some of these. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
Mathematical Contest in Modeling
The Mathematical Contest in Modeling
is a contest where teams of undergraduates use mathematical modeling to present their solutions to real world problems.
The contest begins at 8pm EST on the 14th and runs through 8pm EST on Monday, February 18th.
Talk to mark Bollman for further information about this competition.
February 21, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
What is an Actuary? |
| Speaker |
Dustin Turner, ’06
Actuarial Analyst
Actuarial Department
North Pointe Holdings Corporation
Southfield, MI
|
| Abstract |
In this talk I will give a broad overview of the actuarial profession. Many math majors have heard of the actuarial profession, but few are quite sure of what it entails. I will discuss the process of becoming a credentialed Actuary, while focusing on the responsibilities and perks of entry-level Actuarial Analyst positions. I will also be presenting examples of some fundamental actuarial exercises, including insurance pricing and loss reserving. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
February 23, 2008
Denison Spring Programming Contest
The Denison
Spring Programming Contest challenges teams of up to four programmers to
solve up to six programming problems in a period of four hours. The programmers have
their choice of programming in Java and/or C++. The team with the most
questions solved in the least amount of time wins.
See David Reimann or the
related Web page for more information about this competition.
February 28, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Careers in Mathematics and Computer Science |
| Speaker |
David A. Reimann
Associate Professor and Chair
Mathematics and Computer Science
Albion College
Albion, MI
|
| Abstract |
A degree in mathematics or computer science is excellent preparation for employment in areas such as teaching, actuarial science, software development, engineering, and finance. Come learn about career opportunities awaiting you after graduation. Slides from the talk are available at http://zeta.albion.edu/~dreimann/talks/careers/careers.html. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
March 6, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Conjecture and Proof |
| Speaker |
Dennis Ross, ’08
Senior Mathematics Major
Mathematics and Computer Science
Albion College
Albion, MI
|
| Abstract |
Problem solving is a fundamental skill in mathematics. However, not all problems are created equally. In this interactive colloquium we will explore several seemingly innocuous problems and discover the underlying combinatorial or number theoretic structures. We will also explore the concept of Grundy Numbers (Nimbers) and their relation to bizarre combinatorial games.
This is an accessible talk to mathematicians and computer scientists of all levels, and remember to bring a pencil. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
March 14, 2008
Pi Day
Pi Day celebrates one of the most famous mathematical constants, pi.
Click on the above picture for your very own printable Pi poster.
March 20, 2008
Pizza and Pamphlets
Pizza and Pamphlets is the event where the Mathematics and Computer Science Department
provides information about fall courses in Mathematics and Computer Science.
All Math majors/minors,
Computer Science majors/minors, Math/Physics majors, Math/Econ majors,
prospective majors, and friends of the department are invited to join us.
This year the event will be held at 3:10 pm in Palenske 227.
Bring your friends; bring your questions; bring your schedule.
March 27, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Markov Processes: Markov Chains, Poisson Processes, Brownian Motion |
| Speaker |
Nadiya Fink
Visiting Assistant Professor
Mathematics and Computer Science
Albion College
Albion, MI
|
| Abstract |
The Markov property indicates that, with knowledge of the current state, previous trajectories are irrelevant for predicting the probability of the future of a process. A Markov chain is a discrete-time stochastic (i.e. random) process possessing the Markov property. Probabilities and expected values on a Markov chain can be evaluated by a technique called First Step Analysis. An analogous technique can be applied to continuous-time processes. We will discuss an elementary introduction to Markov chains and First Step Analysis, followed by a broader description and discussion of the long-term behavior of Markov chains. Further, we will get acquainted with the Poisson Processes which are continuous-time processes with finite number of states, and, finally, will overview the continuous processes and their applications. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
April 2008
April is Mathematics Awareness Month
April is Mathematics Awareness Month
and the theme for 2008 is "Math and Voting."
Mathematics Awareness Month is held in April each year to increase public understanding of and appreciation for
the power of mathematics.
It is sponsored by the Joint Policy Board for
Mathematics, a collaborative effort of
the American Mathematical Society (AMS),
the American Statistical Association (ASA),
the Mathematical Association of America (MAA),
and the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM).
In a presidential election year, the term "voting" brings to mind national elections. Candidates are vying for attention in debates and primaries, polls are taking the pulse of the electorate, blogs are offering opinions on everything candidates say, and, ultimately, a general election leads to the selection of the next President of the United States. Many citizens are deeply engaged in these processes; others pay varying degrees of attention.
Voting is not just about electoral politics, however; it's part of everyday life. "Voting" is something that happens in many contexts not related to politics. In any situation in which preferences are expressed—where to have dinner, how to raise money for a charity, who makes the team, etc.—voting in some way occurs. Surprisingly, different voting systems often yield different outcomes.
Mathematics Awareness Month, held each year in April, was created to increase public understanding of and appreciation for mathematics. It began in 1986, when President Reagan issued a proclamation establishing National Mathematics Awareness Week. Activities for Mathematics Awareness Month generally are organized on local, state and regional levels by college and university departments, institutional public information offices, student groups, and related associations and interest groups.
April 3, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Arctangent Identities for Pi |
| Speaker |
Jack Calcut
Research Scientist
Interactic Holdings
Austin, TX
|
| Abstract |
Is there a better identity for pi than pi=4arctan(1)? Are the
degree angle measures ever rational in a triangle whose side lengths form
a Pythagorean triple? Which regular polygons may be built on a geoboard?
The answers to these questions are intimately related to arctangent
identities for pi, which we will explore using the number theory of the
Gaussian integers. We will present some of the historical context as well
as some directions for further research. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
April 5, 2008
Lower Michigan Mathematics Competition
The 32nd Lower Michigan Mathematics Competition will be held at Lawrence Technological University. Teams of three students represent small colleges in lower Michigan in solving a set of ingenious math problems. Albion College is the defending LMMC champion, and our 2007 championship team of Whitney Patton, Jeremy Troisi, and Carmen Weddell will return intact to defend their title and keep the Klein Kup in Albion where it belongs. We have room for several additional three-person teams. Contact Mark Bollman if you are interested in attending this year.
April 7, 2008
Admissions Visit Day
Prospective students are invited to discover the distinctive features that make Albion College a truly special and exciting place. Professors will be available at the departmental table to talk about courses, majors, undergraduate research, special opportunities, alumni success stories, and career options. Prospective students are encouraged to learn about how mathematics and computer science, in collaboration with other disciplines, will lead many of the technical advances during the 21st century.
If you are interested or know a potenial student who might be interested, see the admissions Visitation Day page.
April 17, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
Life isn’t Fair: A Mathematical Argument in Favor of Benevolent Dictatorships |
| Speaker |
Cayley Rice
Assistant Professor
Mathematics and Computer Science
Albion College
Albion, MI
|
| Abstract |
Arrow's theorem, proved in the '50s, suggests that under very reasonable restrictions, the only sensible method of societal decision making is dictatorial. In this talk we'll explore a few different models of voting, how theoretical math can be applied to models of voting, and just how un-sensible voting models can get. A part of the talk will develop notation to discuss voting scenarios in mathematical notation. We'll see how the language of abstract mathematics can be deftly applied to problems like this and, while the notation may be quite complicated, the subsequent mathematics is often already understood. This talk is in recognition of Math Awareness Month (as determined by the AMS, MAA, and SIAM to be April), whose theme this year is math and voting. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
April 18, 2008
Admissions Visit Day
Prospective students are invited to discover the distinctive features that make Albion College a truly special and exciting place. Professors will be available at the departmental table to talk about courses, majors, undergraduate research, special opportunities, alumni success stories, and career options. Prospective students are encouraged to learn about how mathematics and computer science, in collaboration with other disciplines, will lead many of the technical advances during the 21st century.
If you are interested or know a potenial student who might be interested, see the admissions Visitation Day page.
April 24, 2008
Elkin Isaac Research Symposium
The
Elkin R. Isaac Student Research Symposium
recognizes excellent student research, scholarship, and creative activity.
The participants, all Albion College students,
are nominated by their faculty sponsors after having participated
in independent research that results in the significant synthesis of
new knowledge. The research must have been performed under the direct
supervision of an Albion College faculty member, or in a College-approved
off-campus program.
April 25, 2008
International Plaid Day
One of the highlights of
Mathematics Awareness Month
at Albion College is International Plaid Day. We have contacted people
around the world who will join faculty, students, and staff on campus in
wearing plaid to show their support of mathematics. In past years, even the
Rock took on a suitable color scheme.
May 1, 2008
Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium
| Title |
How the 2007 LMMC Albion Math Team captured the infamous Klein Cup |
| Speaker |
Jeremy Troisi, ‘08
Student
Mathematics Major Economics and Management Major
Albion College
Albion, Michigan
|
| Abstract |
The test administered for the Lower Michigan Mathematics Competition (LMMC) in the Spring of 2007 contained a very strong focus on Proof by Mathematical Induction, often dubbed ‘Induction’, compared to past LMMC examinations. Being able to solve such problems quickly as well as a simple combinatorics problem, a simple bounding problem, and a college geometry problem within three hours assured victory. I will go over a complete solution process through a few of these problems and describe a few other problems time permitting. |
| Time |
3:10 PM |
| Location |
Palenske 227 |
May 4, 2008
Senior Dinner
The Mathematics and Computer Science Department will have its annual dinner for
seniors who are majoring or minoring in mathematics or computer science.
The dinner will be held from 5-7 pm.
May 10, 2008
Commencement
Come celebrate the accomplishments of the graduating class of 2008 at
Commencement.
May 30, 2008
SOAR 1 Mathematics Placement
All incoming Albion College students participate in Student Orientation, Advising, and
Registration (SOAR). During SOAR, students learn about the academic
expectations of our students, take a placement exams, and register for
their first semester courses.
The department administers a placement test based on the academic background of each student
to assist students in selecting the most appropriate mathematics and computer science courses
as possible.
See our webpage on
Preparation for Albion College
for more information on the placement process.
June 2, 2008
SOAR 2 Mathematics Placement
All incoming Albion College students participate in Student Orientation, Advising, and
Registration (SOAR). During SOAR, students learn about the academic
expectations of our students, take a placement exams, and register for
their first semester courses.
The department administers a placement test based on the academic background of each student
to assist students in selecting the most appropriate mathematics and computer science courses
as possible.
See our webpage on
Preparation for Albion College
for more information on the placement process.
June 4, 2008
SOAR 3 Mathematics Placement
All incoming Albion College students participate in Student Orientation, Advising, and
Registration (SOAR). During SOAR, students learn about the academic
expectations of our students, take a placement exams, and register for
their first semester courses.
The department administers a placement test based on the academic background of each student
to assist students in selecting the most appropriate mathematics and computer science courses
as possible.
See our webpage on
Preparation for Albion College
for more information on the placement process.
June 6, 2008
SOAR 4 Mathematics Placement
All incoming Albion College students participate in Student Orientation, Advising, and
Registration (SOAR). During SOAR, students learn about the academic
expectations of our students, take a placement exams, and register for
their first semester courses.
The department administers a placement test based on the academic background of each student
to assist students in selecting the most appropriate mathematics and computer science courses
as possible.
See our webpage on
Preparation for Albion College
for more information on the placement process.
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