Algebra and Differential Calculus for Data Science (Coursera)

Consider this an expressway to Data Science with approachable methods and friendly concepts that will guide you to truly understanding the most important ideas in Differential Calculus. We will review some algebra basics, talk about what a derivative is, compute some simple derivatives and apply the basics of derivatives to graphing and maximizing functions.

This course is designed to prepare learners to successfully complete Statistical Modeling for Data Science Application, which is part of CU Boulder's Master of Science in Data Science (MS-DS) program.

What You Will Learn

- Practice working with logarithm properties and how logarithm functions behave graphically.

- Identify the difference between a continuous and non-continuous function.

- Solidify an understanding of what a derivative is calculating.

- Understand how to use derivatives to create graphs of functions.

Syllabus

WEEK 1

Functions and Algebra Review

Review of algebra concepts including functions and logarithms

WEEK 2

Induction Proofs, Limits and Continuity

Simple induction proofs and limits at infinity for functions

WEEK 3

Definition of a Derivative

What is a derivative? Calculate simple derivatives from the definition of a derivative.

WEEK 4

Product and Chain Rule

Use the product and chain rules to calculate the derivatives of more complicated functions.

WEEK 5

Using Derivatives to Graph Functions

Use where derivatives are positive and negative to help graph a function.

WEEK 6

Finding Maximums and Minimums

Use derivatives to find the maximum and minimum values of functions.