"Knowing how to think empowers you far beyond those who know only what to think." -- Neil deGrasse Tyson
Lecture is a conversation. It is boring otherwise. I encourage all students to be active, ask questions and argue your point. I also encourage (and give extra points) for study groups. Students learn from their peers much better then from any instructor. I am here to help you to learn! It is fun!
Math is fun! This class requires calculus and knowledge of the vector algebra. I use both. I do, however, carefully explain all the math. Besides, calculus is such a natural language for E&M, that once you are used to it, it is impossible not to use it.