In a data- and information-saturated world, people need quantitative skills to understand both common and complex issues, and to formulate and ask intelligent questions. Concepts related to quantitative literacy include but are not limited to measurement, logic, number sense, percentages, sampling and error, and graphical representation of data and information.
Courses with a quantitative literacy designation (QL) will focus on the measurement of personal, social, and scientific issues. You will develop the ability to investigate and interpret quantitative information, critique it, reflect upon it, and apply it to a given issue. You will be able to provide accurate explanations of information generated or presented mathematically and construct reasoned arguments. You’ll also learn to present quantitative information in an effective format to support your argument.
HIGHLIGHTED COURSE
MATH 16400 MATH, FAIRNESS, AND DEMOCRACY
Addresses mathematical topics that have close connections to politics: apportionment, voting and weighted voting, fair division, and districting. (Y)
MATH 16500 QUANTIFYING SUSTAINABILITY
Students will learn how to describe quantitatively the many processes that affect the sustainable production and consumption of natural resources. They will use quantitative tools to create, analyze, and critique mathematical models relating to sustainability and learn how to communicate these results effectively. Topics vary based on student interest but may include climate change, epidemiology, population growth, energy, and agriculture. (S)