Beginning Algebra with Applications & Visualization

The Rockswold/Krieger algebra series fosters conceptual understanding by using relevant applications and visualization to show students why math matters. It answers the common question “When will I ever use this?” Rockswold teaches students the math in context, rather than including the applications at the end of the presentation. By seamlessly integrating meaningful applications that include real data and supporting visuals (graphs, tables, charts, colors, and diagrams), students are able to see how math impacts their lives as they learn the concepts. The authors believe this approach deepens conceptual understanding and better prepares students for future math courses and life.

Gary Rockswold has been a professor and teacher of mathematics, computer science, astronomy, and physical science for over 35 years. He has taught not only at the undergraduate and graduate college levels, but he has also taught middle school, high school, vocational school, and adult education. He received his BA degree with majors in mathematics and physics from St. Olaf College and his Ph.D. in applied mathematics from Iowa State University. He has been a principal investigator at the Minnesota Supercomputer Institute, publishing research articles in numerical analysis and parallel processing and is currently an emeritus professor of mathematics at Minnesota State University, Mankato. He is an author for Pearson Education and has over 10 current textbooks at the developmental and precalculus levels. His developmental coauthor and friend is Terry Krieger. They have been working together for over a decade. Making mathematics meaningful for students and professing the power of mathematics are special passions for Gary. In his spare time he enjoys sailing, doing yoga, and spending time with his family.

Additional information about Gary Rockswold can be found at www.garyrockswold.net.