	Department of Mathematics & Computer Science

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MA2501 Proseminar

MA2501(=MC233) Proseminar

Credits: 10

Convenor: Prof. S. König

Semester: 2

Prerequisites:	essential: MA2102(=MC241), MA2101(=MC248)	desirable:
Assessment:	40 minute seminar and written report: 100%	Examination: 0%

Lectures:	2	Problem Classes:	none
Tutorials:	1	Private Study:	62
Labs:	none	Seminars:	10
Project:	none	Other:	none
Surgeries:	none	Total:	75

Course Description

Each student chooses a topic from a list which will be provided at the end of semester one. There will be a choice among various parts of mathematics, e.g. geometry, algebra, analysis, number theory or combinatorics. Typically, such a topic will be an interesting application or a nice theorem or an especially clever proof. The literature usually will be a chapter in a textbook.

The student works through the material and thinks about how to present it. In a training session the student will get advice on the mathematics and on the presentation. Then a test presentation to other students may follow. After the official presentation (about 40 minutes) the student works out a written version (incorporating suggestions by the convenor). Both the presentation and the written piece can be rejected once by the convenor, if there are serious flaws. The second version then will be marked.

The other students will attend the presentation and the speaker should try to inform and to inspire them.

Aims

The focus of this module is on communication skills, both by writing a piece of mathematics and by giving a presentation to the other students. The material chosen is new for the students, but it is supposed to reinforce skills developed before. The module forces the students to take a very active role in learning mathematics.

Objectives

Pursue a course of self-study with guidance from a member of staff.

Receive instruction on making a formal oral presentation.

Give an oral and visual presentation to a group of peers and staff.

Write a clear presentation of a mathematical topic at intermediate university level.

Transferable Skills

Independent study, written and oral communication and presentation skills.

Details of Assessment

50% for 40 minute presentation;
50% for written essay.