Introduction to the blog

Hello all, this blog represents an experiment in teaching. It is meant to be a space for greater direct communication between myself, my students, and teaching assistants or others involved in the classes I'm teaching. It should be a source of information and a forum for questions and discussion, and it should supplement, not replace, other forms of interaction like in-class discussion and office hours.

Before getting started . . . the rules! First, this will be an un-moderated forum, so you will be responsible for policing yourselves as far as civility is concerned. I reserve the right to remove posts, but as long as the discussion remains on-topic and respectful, I don't foresee any reason for doing so. Generally, this blog should be used for the following:

1. Posting lecture-related material, such as any elaboration of material discussed in class,
2. Posting useful course-related material, such as pictures, videos, and outside references,
3. Two-way discussions of course material,
4. Discussion, amongst students, of assignments, and
5. Considered, thoughtful criticisms or discussions of any aspect of class.

What this blog will not be available for is

1. Me answering homework questions! Please use class time, office hours, or email to discuss homework questions with me.
2. Unconsidered or unthoughtful criticism, or any abusive or unwarranted harsh language.