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MAT-10061 - Module Specification
School of Computing and Mathematics
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2023/24 Last Updated: 13 February 2024

MAT-10061 - Introduction to Mathematical Modelling
Coordinator: Michael Nieves Tel: +44 1782 7 34779
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 4
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 733075

Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2023/24

This module is designed to help students appreciate mathematics as a method for describing and solving real-world problems. We introduce the mathematical modelling cycle that provides a conceptual model to study real-world problems. The mathematical and problem solving ideas will be developed through a number of considered problems and short exercises.

Aims
This module has the following aims:
1) to demonstrate mathematics as a method for describing and solving real-world problems;
2) to introduce the mathematical modelling cycle and develop critical thought in its application in choosing appropriate mathematical structures to tackle and solve real-life situations;
3) to illustrate the principles of the modelling cycle (simplify and represent; analyse and solve; interpret and evaluate; communicate and reflect) through solving a variety of problems. This is carried out within the framework of a range of real-world situations and will also utilise computer-based activities, including the use of computer algebra systems.

Intended Learning Outcomes

use the mathematical modelling cycle to construct equations describing real-world problems: 1,2
apply a diverse range of abstract mathematical techniques in solving real-world problems: 1,2
set up and critically analyse appropriate frameworks in solving real world problems: 1,2
identify critical information from models representing real-world problems and use this information in a predictive capacity: 1,2
select appropriate mathematical modeling tools to represent a diverse range of real-world scenarios and to identify their solution: 2

Study hours

24 hours lectures
24 hour computer lab tutorials aimed at solving continuous assessments
12 hours exercise preparation
12 hours class test preparation
78 hours private study

School Rules

A Level Mathematics (or equivalent)

Description of Module Assessment

1: Exercise weighted 40%
Möbius assessments testing knowledge and application of course content
Weekly online Möbius computer-based assignments in Weeks 1 to 11 that are equally weighted. Each assignment is comprised of 3 or 4 questions testing knowledge of the material in this period.

2: Class Test weighted 60%
Class Test on Möbius
A class test will be given in Week 12 through the online assessment tool Möbius that will test your ability to select appropriate mathematical modelling tools and techniques to set up and solve models describing real world scenarios.

Please note that for the 2022/23 Academic Year programmes may be adapted to operate in accordance with a flexible, digital approach. This means that there may be some changes made to how modules are delivered and assessed. The latest information will be provided to you by your School in module handbooks. We endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes and details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/student-terms-and-conditions/

Last Updated: 13 February 2024