MC130 Mathematical Modelling

Next: MC144 Proof and Logical Up: Year 1 Previous: MC126 Multivariate Calculus

MC130 Mathematical Modelling

Credits: 10

Convenor: Dr. J. Levesley

Semester: 2

Prerequisites:
Assessment:	Continual assessment: 100%	One and a half hour exam in May/June: 80%

Lectures:	6	Classes:	12
Tutorials:	none	Private Study:	51
Labs:	none	Seminars:	none
Project:	6	Other:	none
Total:	75

Explanation of Pre-requisites

The mathematical prerequisites for this course are minimal. This course is about using the mathematics that you know accurately and appropriately.

Course Description

Modelling is about applying simple mathematics to real situations. You will make assumptions in order to simplify problems, and then create a mathematical description of this simplified situation. You will then use mathematical manipulations to provide you with information about the situation. It is then very important to compare your answer to the real world to see if it makes sense. Much emphasis in this module will be placed on critically examining solutions to problems, and deciding how much we can trust them. It is clear thinking that will help you to succeed.

Aims

The main aims of this module are for students to

enjoy mathematics;
develop critical thinking;
develop communication skills, both written and verbal;
develop creativity;
develop teamwork skills;
be more socialable with their peers.

Objectives

By the end of the course the students will

know the modelling cycle or a variant of it;
know how to make simplifying assumptions so that a model can be constructed;
know how to assign parameters to physical properties in order to build a mathematical model;
know how to criticise a mathematical model by substituting for parameter values in order to check simple cases;
knowing how to write a clear report of a modelling activity, form problem statement through to solution and criticism of the model;
know how to simulate a simple queuing problem;
know how to use a random variable to simulate a random process;
know how to fit a curve through some given data;
have improved their written skills.

Transferable Skills

In this course we will develop the ability

to write mathematical English clearly and concisely;
to present coplex information orally;
to work in a team;
to do independent research;
to think critically;
to design and present a poster.

Syllabus

This module is designed to build your confidence and competence in modelling. Therefore, you will do a number of modelling problems. The situations you will model are relatively unimportant, but they will include problems involving random processes. These will be modelled using simulation. You will learn other skills, such as data fitting, oral presentation, written presentation, and working in groups.

Reading list

Details of Assessment

100% - Continual assessment

There are five components to the assessment:

1.: 10% - attendance
2.: 20% - evaluating models test
3.: 10% - data fitting test
4.: 30% - individual modelling report
5.: 30% - group poster presentation including verbal report

You will be given opportunity to practice presentation technique during the course. More information on these assessment activities will be given during the classes.

Next: MC144 Proof and Logical Up: Year 1 Previous: MC126 Multivariate Calculus

Roy L. Crole
10/22/1998