Question about a Discrete Structures class

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision to enroll in a Discrete Structures class while also taking a third semester of Calculus. The context includes considerations for a student transitioning from a Forensic Science program to a physics program, seeking guidance on the relevance and compatibility of the courses.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the content of Discrete Structures and its relationship to Calculus, seeking recommendations on whether to take both courses simultaneously.
  • Another participant notes that syllabi for Discrete Structures can vary, mentioning topics such as combinatorics, number theory, set theory, algorithms, Boolean algebra, graphs, logic, induction, and matrices, indicating a broad but shallow coverage of these areas.
  • This second participant confirms that Discrete Structures is conceptually the opposite of continuous mathematics, which is the focus of Calculus and Analysis, suggesting that taking both classes together should not pose a problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There appears to be agreement among participants that taking Discrete Structures alongside Calculus III is feasible, though the initial poster remains uncertain about the decision.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not address specific course prerequisites or the potential impact of varying syllabi on the student's experience.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a transition to a physics program or those interested in the relationship between discrete mathematics and calculus may find this discussion relevant.

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I'm in a bit of a hairy situation right now. Spring 2010 will be my last semester at my current school studying Forensic Science, and in the fall I'll be transferring to a physics program at another school. I'm trying to get some classes in that will help me in th fall before I leave but there's not many options. I'm enrolled in a 3rd semester of Calculus and some basic courses that are required at any college (GOV 101 etc..). There is an opening in a Discrete Structures class that fits perfectly into my schedule and I was just wondering if anyone here can recommend that I take it or not. I'm not really sure what Discrete Structures involves, but from what I gather it is the opposite of Calculus and Analysis, so will it be a problem for me to take both together? I'm just looking for any opinions and guidance... Thanks in advance.
 
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Delete please, I posted in wrong thread
 
The syllabi in these classes vary quite a bit in my experience. You'll probably see a little bit of combinatorics, number theory, set theory, algorithms, Boolean algebra, graphs, logic, induction, matrices, etc. They touch on a lot of things, but never go into too much depth.

You're correct, the class gets it's name because it coveres the opposite of continuous, which is the domain of calculus and analysis. You should be perfectly fine taking this class and Calc III together.
 
Thanks a lot! I appreciate the advice and the discription.
 

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