MATH 442 - Spring 2022
MATH 442: Algebraic Topology
Spring 2022
Professor: Angélica Osorno
Office: Library 305
Phone: x5093 (503-517-5093)
This is the course information website for Math 442: Algebraic Topology.
All other material for the class will be posted on the Moodle page.
General Information
Schedule
- Lecture: MWF 1:35-2:25pm, Lib 204.
- Office hours: Tuesday 1-2:30pm, Thursday 10:30-11:30am in Lib 305; you can also make an appointment or stop by my office. If my door sign says "please knock", you are welcome in. My office is a safe space to ask questions.
Text: Topology Through Inquiry, by M. Starbird and F. Su.
Course description: This course is an introduction to algebraic topology, concentrating on homology of topological spaces as a coarse, yet highly computable algebraic invariant. Topics include singular and simplicial homology, homological algebra, and cohomology. It will be taught in an Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) format.
Learning outcomes: After actively and thoughtfully engaging in this course, I'm confident students will be able to:
- compute the simplicial (co)homology of a simplicial complex;
- use (co)homology as a tool for understanding and characterizing topological spaces;
- think and work independently to make conjectures and prove theorems;
- present mathematical work in both written and oral form;
- evaluate and critique others' work.
Distribution Requirements: This course can be used towards your Group III, "Natural, Mathematical, and Psychological Science," requirement. It accomplishes the following learning goals for the group:
- Use and evaluate quantitative data or modeling, or use logical/mathematical reasoning to evaluate, test or prove statements.
- Given a problem or question, formulate a hypothesis or conjecture, and design an experiment, collect data or use mathematical reasoning to test or validate it.
This course does not satisfy the "primary data collection and analysis" requirement.