Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook
This is an archived handbook for a previous year. The current undergraduate and postgraduate handbooks can be viewed using the links above.

Undergraduate Handbook 2010-2011 (archived)

Module MATH2051: NUMERICAL ANALYSIS II

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH2051: NUMERICAL ANALYSIS II

TypeLevelCreditsAvailabilityModule CapLocation
Open 2 20 Available in 2010/2011 None. Durham

Pre-requisites

  • Core Mathematics A (MATH1012) and Core Mathematics B1 (MATH1051) [the latter may be a co-requisite].

Corequisites

  • Core Mathematics B1 (MATH1051) unless taken before.

Excluded Combinations

  • Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists (MATH1551), Single Mathematics A (MATH1561), SIngle Mathematics B (MATH1571), Foundation Mathematics (MATH1641)

Aims

  • Numerical analysis has the twin aims of producing efficient algorithms for approximation, and the analysis of the accuracy of these algorithms.
  • The purpose of this module is to introduce the basic framework of the subject, enabling the student to solve a variety of problems and laying the foundation for further investigation of particular areas in the Levels 3 and 4.

Content

  • Introduction: The need for numerical methods.
  • Statement of some problems which can be solved by techniques described in this module.
  • What is Numerical Analysis? Non-linear equations.
  • Errors.
  • Polynomial interpolation.
  • Least squares approximation.
  • Numerical differentiation.
  • Numerical integration.
  • Linear equations.
  • Practical sessions.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge
  • By the end of the module students will: be able to solve a range of predictable and unpredictable problems in Number Analysis.
  • have an awareness of the abstract concepts of theoretical mathematics in the field of Numerical Analysis.
  • have a knowledge and understanding of fundamental theories of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas: Non-linear equations.
  • Errors.
  • Polynomial interpolation.
  • Least squares approximation.
  • Numerical differentiation and integration.
  • Matrix equations.
Subject-specific Skills
  • In addition students will have the ability to undertake and defend the use of alternative mathematical skills in the following areas with minimal guidance: Modelling, Computation.
Key Skills

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lecturing demonstrates what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
  • Weekly homework problems provide formative assessment to guide students in the correct development of their knowledge and skills.
  • Tutorials provide active engagement and feedback to the learning process.
  • The end-of-year examination assesses the knowledge acquired and the ability to solve predictable and unpredictable problems..

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotal HoursAttendance Monitored
Lectures 42 2 per week for 19 weeks and 1 in term 3 1 Hour 42
Tutorials 10 Fortnightly for 20 weeks 1 Hour 10 Yes
Problems Classes 10 Fortnightly for 20 weeks 1 Hour 10
Practicals 14 Weekly for 14 weeks 1 Hour 14 Yes
Preparation and Reading 124
Total 200

Summative Assessment

ComponentComponent WeightingElementLength/DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Examination 80% end of year written examination 3 hours 100% yes
Continuous assessment 20% an electronic assessment every three weeks one week 100% yes

Formative Assessment

One written assignment to be handed in every third lecture in the first 2 terms. Normally each will consist of solving problems from a Problems Sheet and typically will be about 2 pages long. Students will have about one week to complete each assignment.


Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.