Professor: Geman Course format: Lecture Number of respondents: 17 Total Enrollment: 23 Class Composition: Froshs: 0 Sophs: 1 Jrs: 4 Srs: 5 Concs: 6 Non-Concs: 9 Don't Know: 0

Instructor Average: 1.29 Course Average: 1.31

“Information Theory” studies the fundamental limits of information transmission and storage. This course is intended primarily for advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students. Students noted that a basic understanding of probability and statistics was necessary, but other than that not much outside information was needed for this course.

Reviewers praised Professor Geman’s clear, organized lectures. They thought that he gave good explanations of concepts and clear examples, and commented that his humorous anecdotes made the class livelier. Some students appreciated the way he reviewed the material covered during the last lecture at the beginning of each class, while one student thought that this was unnecessary. Many also liked how he related each lecture to the broader goals of the course. Class members thought that he answered questions well and was helpful during office hours. He also was clear about what would be covered on exams and students generally felt that he moved at a good pace. Overall, students seemed impressed with Professor Geman’s lectures.

The coursework consisted of a midterm, a final exam, and weekly homework assignments, which were not graded. Most students ended up doing the homework anyway, as it helped in understanding the material and preparing for exams. Many felt the homework should have been graded and disliked the fact that they were graded solely on their performance on the two exams. Students thought the textbook was clear and helpful.

Class members spent between two and seven hours on this course, which matched their expectations. They encourage others to take this class, commenting that it is a fun class taught by a great professor. Many felt that this course provided them with a different way of looking at the world, and one student said it was refreshing compared to other higher-level math courses. If you are interested in information theory, then definitely consider taking this course.

View AM/0171 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.