F17GA - Problem Solving

Course leader(s):

Michela Ottobre (Edinburgh, January)

Aims

The main module aims are to give the students the opportunity to

to tackle a variety of problems involving elementary mathematics
to work as a member of a team
to produce written reports
to make presentations

In addition to the above the students will use Maple to develop skills in using modern algebraic manipulation systems as a tool for applying mathematics and performing mathematical experiments.

Syllabus

1. Problem-solving (1.1 Students will develop problem-solving skills in mathematics via a series of examples taken from pure and applied mathematics. Through the use of literature, analysis and reflection, they will learn to break the problem-solving into different stages and processes. , 1.2 There will be regular assignments on which students will work individually or in small groups depending on the assignment, presenting the solutions and the problem-solving strategies used.)

2. Use of a computer algebra system (CAS) (2.1 1. Using a CAS as a calculator. Manipulating and evaluating expressions. Plotting graphs. Working with sets., 2.2 2. Algebra: Working with algebraic expressions in a CAS, solving equations, working with matrices., 2.3 3. Calculus: Using a CAS to determine limits, differentiate and integrate. Solving ordinary differential equations ODEs and recurrence relations.)

3. Career-planning (3.1 Introduction into career opportunities for mathematics students. Preparing and delivering a presentation.)

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students should be able to do the following:

apply basic solution strategies, including consideration of examples, numerical experimentation or generalisation, for mathematical problems.
assess the information contained in a problem and propose a suitable solution strategy.
present mathematical arguments in a clear and precise way and use LaTeX for typesetting.
manage workloads and schedules independently and collaboratively in a small team.
communicate effectively in multiple formats to a variety of audiences including academic and peer audience.
solve problems involving equations, matrix manipulations, computing limits, differentiation, and integration by using appropriate computer algebra system.
apply knowledge of working with the computer algebra system to perform mathematical experiments.
create a presentation on an assigned topic by independently studying literature.

Further details

Curriculum explorer: Click here

SCQF Level: 7

Credits: 15