Elementary Linear Algebra: A Matrix Approach

by Lawrence E. Spence, Arnold J. Insel, Stephen H. Friedberg

Embracing the recommendations of the Linear Algebra Curriculum Study Group, the authors have written a text that students will find both accessible and enlightening.  Written for a matrix-oriented course, students from a variety of disciplines can expect a greater understanding of the concepts of linear algebra. 

Starting with matrices, vectors, and systems of linear equations, the authors move towards more advanced material, including linear independence, subspaces, and bases.  The authors also encourage the use of technology, either computer software (MATLAB) or super-calculators, freeing students from tedious computations so they are better able to focus on the conceptual understanding of linear algebra. 

Lastly, students will find a variety of applications to engage their interest, demonstrated via economics, traffic flow, anthropology, Google searches, computer graphics, or music to name a few. By leveraging technology and incorporating engaging examples and numerous practice problems and exercises, this text best serves the needs of students attempting to master linear algebra. 

626 pages, Unbound

Published June 19, 2010

About the author

Lawrence E. Spence holds a BA from Towson State College and MS and PhD degrees in mathematics from Michigan State University. He served as a faculty member at Illinois State University for 34 years, where he was recognized as the outstanding teacher in the College of Arts and Sciences in 1987. He is an author or co-author of 9 college mathematics textbooks, as well as articles in mathematics journals in the areas of discrete mathematics and linear algebra.