Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2010-2011 (archived)

Module MATH2101: TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS II

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH2101: TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS II

Type Tied Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Not available in 2010/11 Module Cap None. Location Durham
Tied to CFG0
Tied to G100
Tied to G103
Tied to G104
Tied to G105

Prerequisites

  • Core A Mathematics (MATH1012)

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To study two separate topics in mathematics at least one of which will demonstrate how mathematics can be applied to real world situations.

Content

  • The topics taught may vary from year to year.
  • One topic will be covered in the Michaelmas term and the other in the Epiphany term.
  • In any given year the syllabuses for the respective topics will be made available via departmental literature in a timely fashion.

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 the given topics.
  • Have an awareness of the abstract concepts of theoretical mathematics in the field of the given topics.
  • Have a knowledge and understanding of the major theories of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas: Codes: linear, block, Hamming, Reed-Solomon, Application to writing of CDs; Actuarial mathematics: Compound interest, life assurance, future lifetime, life annuities, net premiums.
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.
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

    Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
    Lectures 38 2 per week 1 Hour 38
    Tutorials 10 Fortnightly for 20 weeks 1 Hour 10 ■
    Problems Classes 10 Frtnightly for 20 weeks 1 Hour 10
    Preparation and Reading 142
    Total 200

    Summative Assessment

    Component: Examination Component Weighting: 100%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    end of year examination 100%

    Formative Assessment:

    Weekly written assignments; no collection.

    ■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University