General Information
and Course Policies

What is Abstract Algebra?

Here's the boring answer: As the name indicates, Abstract Algebra involves the study of algebraic equations and the methods used to solve them. The abstraction refers to the perspective taken in the subject, which is very different from that of high school algebra courses. Rather than looking for the solutions to a particular problem, we will be interested in such questions as: When does a solution exist? If a solution does exist, is it unique? What general properties does a solution possess? Our exploration will go beyond such algebraic structures as the integers and the rationals, and our approach will be axiomatic. Indeed, working from a fairly small set of axioms one can describe the properties of a wide range of algebraic structures concisely and elegantly. More importantly, however, abstract algebra will allow you to take a concrete problem Focusing on group theory, our study will be motivated by the desire to describe algebraic structures in a rigorous, concise, and elegant way.

Here's the exciting answer: Abstract Algebra is a rich set of tools that will allow you to answer questions relating to concrete situations in the world around you. For example, how can one find strategic moves that are helpful in solving the Rubic's cube? What is the probability that one will have a "SET" in the first round of the card game SET? How can one keep confidential information out of the hands of evil-doers? With the tools provided by Abstract Algebra, one can apply an algebra structure to each of these situations and use this structure to compute, explore, understand and solve. Abstract Algebra is very powerful.

HOMEWORK POLICY

1. Homework is due at the START of class on the assigned due date, unless I specify otherwise. Late homework will not be accepted. If you know you will be missing class for some reason (e.g., an athletic event), turn in your assignment BEFORE you leave. Under extenuating circumstances extensions may be granted, but this should be discussed with me in advance.
2. Your homework will be evaluated on neatness, completeness, and correctness.
3. Group work is encouraged, but assignments must be written up INDIVIDUALLY unless specified otherwise. Copied work is considered to be an academic infraction even if the work was discussed in collaboration with a classmate before write-up (see Academic Honesty below).

Exams. There will be 2 hourly exams and a final exam. Each of the 2 hourly exams will have a take-home component as well as an in-class component. The take-home component will be worth twice as much as the in-class portion of the exam (100pts and 50pts respectively), and you will choose a 48-hour period over which to work on the take-home.

Grades. Your grade will be based on the daily homework, presentations & participation, projects, 2 exams, and the final exam. Each will be weighted as follows.