Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2017-2018 (archived)
Module MATH1031: DISCRETE MATHEMATICS
Department: Mathematical Sciences
MATH1031:
DISCRETE MATHEMATICS
Type |
Open |
Level |
1 |
Credits |
20 |
Availability |
Available in 2017/18 |
Module Cap |
|
Location |
Durham
|
Prerequisites
- Normally, A level Mathematics at grade C or better, or
equivalent.
Corequisites
Excluded Combination of Modules
- COMP1021 (Mathematics for Computer Science).
Aims
- To provide students with a range of tools for counting discrete
mathematical objects.
- To introduce students to graph theory and its varied applications.
- To develop the students' ability in group working, written and oral skills.
Content
- Principles of counting: permutations and combinations, combinatorial vs arithmetical
proof.
- Pigeonhole principle, inclusion and
exclusion, mathematical induction.
- Recurrence relations, Fibonacci numbers, generating functions, and partitions.
- Basic concepts of graphs.
Learning Outcomes
- Ability to solve a
range of predictable and less predictable problems in Discrete
Mathematics.
- Awareness of some fundamental mathematical concepts
applicable in this field.
- A broad knowledge and basic understanding of Discrete Mathematics.
- students will have basic mathematical skills in the following
areas: Spatial awareness, Abstract reasoning, Modelling.
- students will develop the ability to write mathematical reports
with rigour and precision
- students will have basic problem solving skills.
- students will further their oral and written skills
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to
the learning outcomes of the module
- Lectures demonstrate what is required to be learned and the
application of the theory to practical examples.
- Tutorials provide the practice and support in applying the
methods to relevant situations as well as active engagement and feedback
to the learning process.
- Weekly coursework provides an opportunity for students
to consolidate the learning of material as the module progresses (there
are no higher level modules in the department of Mathematical Sciences
which build on this module). It serves as a guide in the correct
development of students' knowledge and skills, as well as an aid in
developing their awareness of standards required.
- Seminars in term 2 will develop the students ability for self-study on an
extended and open-ended programme, and enhance their group working skills.
- Presentations in week 19 will develop students oral communication
skills.
- The written report will train students to write an extended report with
precision and rigour of expression.
- The end-of-year written examination provides a substantial
complementary assessment of the achievement of the student.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
Activity |
Number |
Frequency |
Duration |
Total/Hours |
|
Lectures |
27 |
2 per week in weeks 1-13, 20 (excluding collection examination) |
1 Hour |
27 |
|
Tutorials |
12 |
Weekly in weeks 2-10,12-13,20. |
1 Hour |
12 |
■ |
Seminars |
6 |
Weekly in weeks 14-19 |
2 Hours |
12 |
■ |
Preparation and Reading |
|
|
|
149 |
|
Total |
|
|
|
200 |
|
Summative Assessment
Component: Examination |
Component Weighting: 60% |
Element |
Length / duration |
Element Weighting |
Resit Opportunity |
Written examination |
2 hours |
100% |
Yes |
Component: Coursework |
Component Weighting: 40% |
Element |
Length / duration |
Element Weighting |
Resit Opportunity |
Presentation in Week 19 |
|
50% |
Yes |
Written Report |
|
50% |
Yes |
One written assignment each week in term 1.
Normally it will consist of solving problems from a Problem Sheet and
typically will be about 2 pages long. Students will have about one week to
complete each assignment. 45 minute collection paper in the first week of
Epiphany term. Submission of written work in week 17 for feedback.
■ 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