To study the essence of linearity we introduce objects called vector spaces and related concepts such as linear transformations . At first these notions may seem very abstract, but the power of abstraction is that in the end one is able to solve a host of problems by understanding a very small number of concepts.
In addition to the abstract side of linear algebra, we will be studying the computational side: matrix manipulation and solving systems of equations. However, this course should not be confused with MAS 3114, Computational Linear Algebra, which is far less theoretical. In MAS 4105 we will emphasize theorem-proving and spend less time on computation. We will do little, if any, computer work. In MAS 3114 by contrast there is less theorem-proving, and instead an emphasis on using the computer for mathematics. Make sure you are in the right course for your needs.
Workload: Expect to put in at least eight hours of work per week outside of class. Some weeks the workload may seem lighter; other weeks heavier. In weeks where the workload seems lighter, either start reading ahead and doing homework early, or get ahead in another class, so that if the workload is heavier the next week you don't fall behind.