Elementary Linear Algebra

The transition to upper-level math courses is often difficult because of the shift in emphasis from computation (in calculus) to abstraction and proof (in junior/senior courses). This book provides guidance with the reading and writing of short proofs, and incorporates a gradual increase in abstraction as the chapters progress. This helps students prepare to meet the challenges of future courses such as abstract algebra and elementary analysis.

• Clearly explains principles and guides students through the effective transition to higher-level math
• Includes a wide variety of applications, technology tips, and exercises, including new true/false exercises in every section
• Provides an early introduction to eigenvalues/eigenvectors
• Accompanying Instructor's Manual and Student Solutions Manual (ISBN: 0-12-058622-3)

Dr. Stephen Andrilli holds a Ph.D. degree in mathematics from Rutgers University, and is an Associate Professor in the Mathematics and Computer Science Department at La Salle University in Philadelphia, PA, having previously taught at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, MD. He has taught linear algebra to sophomore/junior mathematics, mathematics-education, chemistry, geology, and other science majors for over thirty years. Dr. Andrilli’s other mathematical interests include history of mathematics, college geometry, group theory, and mathematics-education, for which he served as a supervisor of undergraduate and graduate student-teachers for almost two decades. He has pioneered an Honors Course at La Salle based on Douglas Hofstadter’s “Godel, Escher, Bach,” into which he weaves the Alice books by Lewis Carroll. Dr. Andrilli lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia with his wife Ene. He enjoys travel, classical music, classic movies, classic literature, science-fiction, and mysteries. His favorite author is J. R. R. Tolkien.

Dr. David Hecker has a Ph.D. degree in mathematics from Rutgers University, and is a Professor in the Mathematics Department at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA. He has taught linear algebra to sophomore/junior mathematics and science majors for over three decades. Dr. Hecker has previously served two terms as Chair of his department, and his other mathematical interests include real and complex analysis, and linear algebra. He lives on five acres in the farmlands of New Jersey with his wife Lyn, and is very devoted to his four children. Dr. Hecker enjoys photography, camping and hiking, beekeeping, geocaching, science-fiction, humorous jokes and riddles, and rock and country music. His favorite rock group is the Moody Blues.