Ruth Vanderpool, Ph.D.

Email
rvanderp@uw.edu
Personal Website
http://faculty.washington.edu/rvanderp/
Associate Teaching Professor
Phone
253-692-4310
Office
McDonald Smith 303C
Unit: 
Sciences and Mathematics, division of School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
Campus Box
358436
Degrees
Ph.D.
Mathematics
University of Oregon
2009
M.S.
Mathematics
University of Oregon
2005
B.S.
Mathematics
Pacific Lutheran University
2002
B.A.
Computer Science
Pacific Lutheran University
2002
Introduction

I am an algebraic topologist by training but my research has become more pedagogically focused.

Most recently I have helped develop some of the distance learning curriculum and tracked students' perceptions about mathematics in an interdisciplinary course.

PS: Math is awesome.

Teaching

Classes I have taught:

  • Abstract Algebra: Introductory group theory course with a brief introduction to rings and fields.
  • Discrete Structures 1: Introductory discrete algebra for computer professionals.
  • Linear Algebra: Introductory proof-based course on vector and matrix algebra.
  • Calculus 1, 2 and 3:
    • Differential calculus and applications for math and science majors.
    • Integral calculus and applications for math and science majors.
    • Sequences, series and multivariable calculus for science majors.
  • Calculus for Life Sciences 2: Integral calculus with an emphasis on applications to the mathematical models used in the life sciences.
  • Calculus and Its Practical Applications: Differential calculus with an emphasis on applications to mathematical models used in business & economics.
  • Introduction to Statistics: Survey of discrete probability, data analysis, sampling distributions, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing.
  • Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers 1, 2 and 3:
    • Differential calculus and applications for math and science majors.
    • Integral calculus and applications for math and science majors.
    • Sequences, series and multivariable calculus for science majors.
  • Elementary Functions: Survey of exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. 
  • College Algebra: Primarily focused on functional formalism and notation.
  • Origami Math: Freshmen college orientation course focused on geometry, origami, & scientific thinking.
Affiliations
  • Mathematical Association of America (MAA)
  • American Mathematical Society (AMS)
  • Creative Educational Experiences in Tacoma, WA