MA4020 - Mathematical Programming (2017/18)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2017/18 | ||||||||||||||||
| Module status | DELETED (This module is no longer running) | ||||||||||||||||
| Module title | Mathematical Programming | ||||||||||||||||
| Module level | Certificate (04) | ||||||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 30 | ||||||||||||||||
| School | School of Computing and Digital Media | ||||||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 300 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||
| Assessment components |
|
||||||||||||||||
| Running in 2017/18(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
|
Module summary
This module introduces a range of numerical approximation methods for solving a variety of mathematical problems, including iterative methods for solving nonlinear equations and systems of linear equations. This module also introduces a mathematical programming package that is commonly used for solving a variety of problems. The application of these techniques, through the medium of mathematical problems enables the student to become proficient in the use of algebraic software.
Prior learning requirements
None
Module aims
- To enable students to use programming algorithms in the context techniques students have met previously, through the use of individual and group-based problems.
- To appreciate the ways in which mathematical packages can assist in the solution of problems and be able to interpret and report the results in a clear and concise manner.
Syllabus
Application of a computer algebra software ; Introduction to Programming-language elements- Expressions and Statements, Basic Data Structure, Flow Control, Procedures, Debugging, Graphics.
Producing Mathematical documents using packages such as Word, LATEX or Maple.
Learning and teaching
The module will be taught using blended learning with a mixture of lectures, supervised computer laboratory sessions and self study practical exercises. In particular, the lectures will be used to introduce the mathematical and programming concepts and principles and demonstrate worked examples. Each lecture will be followed by a practical supervised session, where the students will be able to apply/experiment with the various notions introduced in the lectures (reflective learning), using examples and instructions. Furthermore, students will be pointed to self-study exercises which they will attempt in their own time. The students will also be expected to spend time on private study and on preparation for the test as well as the group project.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
LO1 Apply standard numerical techniques for finding roots of algebraic, linear and non-linear Equations by using a Computer package
LO2 Appreciate the ways that inbuilt commands in a computer packages assist in the solution of problems.
LO3 Understand the principles of programming such as algorithm, control flow and debugging
LO4 Write programmes to solve mathematical and statistical problems.
Assessment strategy
The assessment consists of three main elements: a test (LO1-LO2) on the weekly practical work completed with 25% weighting and two group programming projects (LO3-LO4). First coursework has weighting of 25% and the second weighting of 50%.
In the group project, students are expected to work in small groups.
Students will have an opportunity to demonstrate their skills in the following activities:
- Preliminary investigation concerning the problem in hand.
- Selecting a suitable method/program for solving the problem.
- Importing data where necessary and using software for analyses.
-Contributing, as a team member, towards successful completion of the project and offering a critical evaluation of the work of the other team members.
Bibliography
on-line sources such as : http://www.maplesoft.com/ http://www.r-project.org/
Introductory Programming Guide, Maplesoft, 2009
Problem Solving & Programming Concepts Eight Edition Maureen Sprankle, Jim Hubbard, Prentice Hall 2009