Ordinary Differential Equations and Calc III

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision to take Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE, MAP2302) alongside Calculus III during a summer semester. Participants emphasize the accelerated pace of summer classes, suggesting that taking both simultaneously may hinder comprehension, particularly since ODE concepts often build on topics covered in Calculus III. The consensus leans towards taking Calculus III first to ensure a solid foundation before tackling ODE. Additionally, concerns about the limited exposure to hyperbolic functions in prior coursework are raised, highlighting their relevance in both subjects.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Calculus II concepts, particularly hyperbolic functions
  • Familiarity with the syllabus for MAP2302 (Ordinary Differential Equations)
  • Knowledge of the structure and content of Calculus III
  • Time management skills for handling accelerated summer courses
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the syllabus for MAP2302 to identify prerequisite topics
  • Study hyperbolic functions and their applications in ODE and Calculus III
  • Consult academic advisors for personalized course recommendations
  • Explore time management strategies for intensive summer coursework
USEFUL FOR

Students considering taking Ordinary Differential Equations and Calculus III simultaneously, academic advisors, and anyone seeking to optimize their mathematics course load during summer sessions.

Juan Becerra
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Hello, I need help deciding on whether to take ODE (MAP2302) and Calc III during the summer. Would it be wise to take ODE along with Calc III in the same semester? Some people have told me to take Calc III first because there are a few things in ODE that are taught in Calc III, but others have told me that it is doable. ODE will only be a summer A class, meaning that the class will be taught at a fast pace. My concern is that I won't be able to keep up with the material since there are things that I haven't learned yet. I'm not too concerned about Calc III because the class will take up both semesters (summer A and B). However, I have been told that my instructor likes to move at a fast pace. So to sum it all up my concerns are: will I be able to keep up with both classes? (knowing that they will move at a fast pace since they will be during the summer terms) and will I be completely lost in ODE since I didn't take Calc III yet?
On a similar note, how much (if at all) do hyperbolics come up in ODE and Calc III? My Calc II professor only spent like 10 or 15 minutes talking about them; we weren't tested on them, so I have no clue what they're used for or how to solve them.
If I decide to take them both at the same time, what material should I self-study from Calc III for ODE?
Suggestions and feedback are greatly appreciated.
 
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Juan Becerra said:
On a similar note, how much (if at all) do hyperbolics come up in ODE and Calc III?

Depends on the class syllabus. Since you won't tell us where this is, you are in a better position to judge than we are.

Juan Becerra said:
will I be able to keep up with both classes?

What does your advisor say?

Personally, I would need a really, really really good reason to take both classes at the same time in a summer session, which is twice as fast as spring or fall. Especially this summer, where the odds of doing it remotely are high.
 
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Vanadium 50 said:
Depends on the class syllabus. Since you won't tell us where this is, you are in a better position to judge than we are.
What does your advisor say?

Personally, I would need a really, really really good reason to take both classes at the same time in a summer session, which is twice as fast as spring or fall. Especially this summer, where the odds of doing it remotely are high.
For the latter part, are you saying not to take them both because the classes will be taught online? If so, I could see how it would make both classes even harder because I won't be able to personally ask my professors for help or go to see a tutor.
 
I would take Calc III first and then Diff Eqns second as that is the normal order of teaching.

One could take them in the same semester but then you'll devote half time to each and perhaps get sick of math in the long term. Its almost always better to have a variety of courses spread over several disciplines.
 
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Juan Becerra said:
For the latter part, are you saying not to take them both because the classes will be taught online?

No I said "especially if they will be taught online."
 

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