DSC1006 : Discrete Mathematics and Linear Algebra
- Inactive for Year: 2026/27
- Module Leader(s): Dr Tom Nye
- Lecturer: Dr Thorsten Heidersdorf
- Owning School: Mathematics, Statistics and Physics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Aims
This module develops your understanding of the mathematical structures that underpin data and computational systems. You will study vectors, matrices, linear transformations, graph-based problems, and algorithmic complexity within computational and data-driven contexts. The emphasis is on applying mathematical structures to represent, organise, and reason about data, providing a foundation for later study in modelling, algorithms, optimisation, and intelligent systems.
Outline Of Syllabus
Topics covered by this module include:
Basics objects of mathematics: sets, functions, relations and logical operators
Vectors, matrices, tensors and inner products
Eigenvalues and vectors
Quadratic forms
Singular values
Linear systems of equations
Graphs and problems formulated on graphs. Their solutions and complexity.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 20:00 | 20:00 | Preparation and completion of summative computer assessment |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 30 | 1:00 | 30:00 | Lectures |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 20:00 | 20:00 | Preparation and completion of formative computer assessment |
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 1 | 40:00 | 40:00 | Preparation for lectures and tutorials |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 3 | 1:00 | 3:00 | Revision session |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 2:30 | 2:30 | Completion of written exam |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 1 | 20:00 | 20:00 | Wider reading as per provided reading list |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 15 | 1:00 | 15:00 | Group tutorials |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 49:30 | 49:30 | Independent study and revision for final written exam |
| Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
This module includes an encounter with the leading edge of research.
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 150 | 2 | A | 80 | N/A |
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer assessment | 2 | M | 20 | Numbas or equivalent, completable in 50 minutes |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer assessment | 2 | M | Numbas or equivalent, completable in 50 minutes |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The assessment structure is designed to evaluate students’ understanding and application of the mathematical concepts, structures, and computational methods developed throughout the module.
The computer assessment enables students to apply mathematical techniques and computational reasoning to structured problems throughout the module. This assessment supports the development of procedural fluency, problem solving, and the application of mathematical methods in computational contexts. The formative computer assessment provides students with an opportunity to practise core techniques and receive feedback prior to the summative assessment.
The written examination assesses students’ ability to reason mathematically, solve unseen problems, apply appropriate methods, and demonstrate understanding of the relationships between mathematical structures, graph-based systems, and computational complexity. The examination supports assessment of both foundational knowledge and the ability to apply mathematical approaches within computational and analytical settings.
Together, the assessments ensure students demonstrate both applied computational competence and broader conceptual understanding appropriate to a Stage 1 mathematical foundations module.
Alternative assessment:
For students with a Student Support Plan (SSP) who have alternative assessment as a reasonable adjustment and/or students with supported Personal Extenuating Circumstances (PEC), it may be necessary to set an alternative assessment as presented below. Due to the professional requirements of some programmes, alternative assessments may not be available even where students are eligible.
An oral examination may be offered as an alternative to the written examination where appropriate. This will normally comprise a 15-minute student-led presentation on a prepared topic from the module syllabus, followed by 15 minutes of questioning covering the wider module content. The oral examination will assess the same learning outcomes as the written examination, including mathematical reasoning, conceptual understanding, and problem-solving ability.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- DSC1006's Timetable