<p>@sdapkid</p>
<p>The real issue you are overlooking is that it’s been 2 years since you took single variable calculus. Math is a lot like a language: if you don’t use it you’ll lose it. So I’m wondering if you don’t need some sort of review of single variable calc too, because the ODE part of 240 will definitely require a good working knowledge of it. Did you take ODE or any math as a senior?</p>
<p>To answer your question, I don’t see having only a passing knowledge of MVC as being in any way detrimental to successes in 240 as per the current syllabus. 114 covers just the basics of linear algebra prior to embarking on a treatment of MVC. Thus, the very beginning of linear algebra in 240 may review or redo the rudiments from 114. The only other point at which anything from MVC or 114 comes into play in 240 is at the very end of the ODE part. The discussion of ODE solution stability, the phase plane and non-linear systems will use in some capacity directional derivative or gradient concepts - nothing too deep. So officially 114 is a prerequisite for 240, but I’m not certain what happens if you’re registered for 240 without 114 credit.</p>
<p>So again, I’d recommend doing some study and review to try to pass the 114 credit examination, largely because it will help you review calculus and a little linear algebra to be in good shape for 240. The other reason it would be beneficial to have 114 credit is that for Wharton and possibly biology (if interested in genetics), you need some statistics. It would make sense for someone with your math background to take Stat 430-431, where again math 114 is the prerequisite for Stat 430, instead of the 100-level stat courses.</p>
<p>Lastly, I think you are focusing too much on teaching reviews. It’s more likely that large class size, mediocre TA’s or other factors are the reason for profs getting poor reviews. If people didn’t like the course, the prof may have been only part of the reason. When I was at Penn, I bypassed the DRL math mob scene by taking a now defunct course Math 260-261 for AP freshman that was limited to 30 students per section. In your case, I think that 114 will be easier for you than 240, but you may not like it as well.</p>
<p>MIT OCW has video lectures as part of online math courses both on single and multivariable calc that you could use for review or to get motivated to take the 114 exam. These may be beneficial to @Much2learn 's DD as well.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>