MAS1803 : Problem Solving with Python
- Offered for Year: 2020/21
- Module Leader(s): Dr Chris Graham
- Owning School: Mathematics, Statistics and Physics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
Aims
To introduce the programming language Python and its application to mathematical problems. To promote familiarity with the environment for standard mathematical operations, and to work towards the ideas of coding user-defined functions and scripts, and further towards programming aimed at solving more substantial problems.
To promote independent thinking and critical appraisal by linking the computational experience to the tackling of unfamiliar problems that have not been directly demonstrated to them and which can be formulated mathematically.
Module summary
Computing methods are of great use in a wide range of applications of pure and applied mathematics, as well as statistics. This module will introduce and develop familiarity with mathematical computing, relate this to problem solving techniques based on independent thinking, and develop the ability to apply such methods independently, towards specific goals in mathematical study and applications.
Outline Of Syllabus
Use of Python for mathematical computing. Getting started, input and output, data types, plotting and simple calculations, control statements, functions, classes
Individual problems based on existing mathematical knowledge (such as calculus, sequences and series, single value functions, curve sketching and simple numerical analysis, linear algebra, matrix manipulations, permutations and combinations).
Mathematical problems and puzzles from logic, number theory, geometry, algebra, probability, strategy.
Teaching Methods
Please note that module leaders are reviewing the module teaching and assessment methods for Semester 2 modules, in light of the Covid-19 restrictions. There may also be a few further changes to Semester 1 modules. Final information will be available by the end of August 2020 in for Semester 1 modules and the end of October 2020 for Semester 2 modules.
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 1 | 4:50 | 4:50 | Synchronous On-Line Material |
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 18 | 1:00 | 18:00 | Non Synchronous Activities |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 15 | 1:00 | 15:00 | Completion of in course assessment |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Workshops | 1 | 4:50 | 4:50 | Present in Person |
| Structured Guided Learning | Structured non-synchronous discussion | 9 | 1:00 | 9:00 | Non Synchronous Discussion to Support Learning |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Drop-in/surgery | 2 | 1:00 | 2:00 | Office Hour or Discussion Board Activity |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 46:20 | 46:20 | Preparation time for lectures, background reading, coursework review |
| Total | 100:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
Non-synchronous online materials are used for the delivery of theory and explanation of methods, illustrated with examples, and for giving general feedback on assessed work. Present-in-person and synchronous online sessions are used to help develop the students’ abilities at applying the theory to solving problems and to identify and resolve specific queries raised by students, and to allow students to receive individual feedback on marked work. Students who cannot attend a present-in-person session will be provided with an alternative activity allowing them to access the learning outcomes of that session. In addition, office hours/discussion board activity will provide an opportunity for more direct contact between individual students and the lecturer: a typical student might spend a total of one or two hours over the course of the module, either individually or as part of a group.
Alternatives will be offered to students unable to be present-in-person due to the prevailing C-19 circumstances.
Student’s should consult their individual timetable for up-to-date delivery information.
Assessment Methods
Please note that module leaders are reviewing the module teaching and assessment methods for Semester 2 modules, in light of the Covid-19 restrictions. There may also be a few further changes to Semester 1 modules. Final information will be available by the end of August 2020 in for Semester 1 modules and the end of October 2020 for Semester 2 modules.
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written exercise | 1 | M | 20 | N/A |
| Written exercise | 1 | M | 20 | N/A |
| Written exercise | 1 | M | 60 | Alternative assessment |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The course assessments allow the students to develop their problem solving techniques, to practise the methods learnt in the module, to assess their progress and to receive feedback; these assessments have a secondary formative purpose as well as their primary summative purpose.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- MAS1803's Timetable