The Critical Review
AM/0034 (sec 1) Methods of Applied Mathematics I, II

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Professor: Maxey
Course format: Lecture w/section

Number of respondents: 47
Total Enrollment: 67
Class Composition:
Froshs: 1 Sophs: 56 Jrs: 6 Srs: 4
Concs: 4 Non-Concs: 40 Don't Know: 1

Instructor Average: 2.45 Course Average: 2.27
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"Methods of Applied Mathematics II" is a lecture course focusing on the methods of solving differential equations. This course is a sequel to AM 33, and thus that course is a necessary prerequisite, as are calculus and linear algebra.

Professor Maxey received mixed reviews, from clear and concise to dry and boring. Most students noted that he was well-organized, but did not present the material in a very enthusiastic manner. Students generally would have appreciated a slower pace and more adapted teaching style, including more examples. There were also few opportunities to participate in class. Although these drawbacks were noted on most surveys, many other class members appreciated Maxey"s neat notes on the board.

For weekly assignments, the ten total problem sets proved to be fair and applicable. In addition, two midterm exams and one final rounded out the graded work. One of the midterms was a take-home exam, but most students agreed that it was much more difficult than the other, an in-class midterm. There was also an in-class final. On the whole, this class required moderate effort, as most people spent around four to six hours per week on work outside of class.

Although there were a number of complaints regarding Professor Maxey's teaching style, a fair number of students felt that they learned the material well enough to feel comfortable with it. However, an equal proportion noted that they took the class only because it was a concentration requirement and prerequisite for other courses.

Unless you are very interested in applied mathematics or looking to gain a base of knowledge of differential equations, you may want to think twice before signing up for "Applied Mathematics II." However, if you are a motivated student interested in these areas, this course will fit the bill.

View AM/0034 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.


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