Which Mathematics Course Should I Choose for Next Semester?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision-making process for selecting a mathematics course for the upcoming semester. Participants are considering options between Calculus 1, Introductory Statistics, or taking a break from mathematics to focus on a different subject, specifically American History. The context includes personal academic goals and major considerations, particularly in relation to Economics and Business Finance.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether to take Calculus 1, Introductory Statistics, or a non-mathematics course.
  • Another participant suggests that if the individual is currently doing well in Precalculus, they should consider taking Calculus 1 next, as skipping a semester could lead to a loss of skills.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes the importance of Statistics for a major in Economics, indicating that both Calculus and Statistics will be necessary.
  • One participant shares their experience of successfully taking Calculus I and non-calculus Statistics simultaneously, suggesting that non-calculus Statistics is manageable and less rigorous.
  • Concerns are raised about the implications of taking a semester off from mathematics, with a recommendation against it.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the best course to take, with some advocating for Calculus 1 while others highlight the importance of Statistics. There is no consensus on which course is definitively better, and the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants' decisions are influenced by their intended majors and future academic plans, which introduces varying levels of urgency and importance regarding mathematics courses. The discussion reflects a range of personal experiences and academic strategies without resolving the underlying uncertainties.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering their course selections in mathematics, particularly those majoring in Economics or Business Finance, may find the perspectives shared in this discussion relevant.

Bogrune
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Hey everyone!

Registration for next semester at the college I'm attending begins next month, and I need to decide which classes I'll want to be taking. I've already made the choice for nearly all the classes I want to take, and I'll also need to have a talk with my counselor to see if he approves of it. The hardest part for me is deciding about which mathematics course to enroll in. I'm taking Precalculus this semester, and it seems that if I keep doing and more importantly trying in my work, I'll be able to pass. What I'm having trouble deciding is whether I should take a course in Calculus 1, a course in Introductory Statistics, or whether I should take it easy next semester and take a course in American History?

Thanks.
 
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What major are you??
 
^ I'm thinking of deciding of majoring in Economics, or if I change my mind, I'm going back to studying Business Finance.
 
What degree level are you aiming? If just A.A. and nothing more, then the Statistics course is good, or enough. No matter, taking it easy is not the way to do. You're in PreCalculus now, and if you skip a semester of Math, you will loose too much skill and knowledge.

Best suggestion is to take Calculus 1 next. You can always stick in the Statistics later.
 
Well, I'm thinking that I'll be taking enough accounting courses so that I can get prepared for the C.P.A exam, so that It'll look well on my resumé. I'm also thinking of getting a bachelor's or a master's in Economics, and a minor in Philsophy (I know, it seems like a lot! :P) The main reason that I want to major in Economics is because of my strong interest in mathematics.
 
Bogrune said:
^ I'm thinking of deciding of majoring in Economics, or if I change my mind, I'm going back to studying Business Finance.

then both calculus and statistics will be heavily needed. statistics more though.
 
Hmm... It's a bit hard to decide. Should I take a course in Calculus, Statistics, or should I skip a course in mathematics and take another course in Economics?
 
Bogrune said:
my strong interest in mathematics.

One would think this lead you to a decision.
 
I took Calculus I and non-calc Statistics at the same time with no trouble. If you are doing well in pre-calculus you should consider taking both. Non-calc stats is very simple, and only requires time to memorize and understand concepts. There wasn't much mathematical rigor from my experience.

I wouldn't take a semester off from mathematics though.
 

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