Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024 (archived)
Module COMP1021: MATHEMATICS FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE
Department: Computer Science
COMP1021: MATHEMATICS FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE
| Type | Open | Level | 1 | Credits | 20 | Availability | Available in 2023/24 | Module Cap | Location | Durham |
|---|
Prerequisites
- A-level Mathematics Grade A.
Corequisites
- COMP1051 Computational Thinking
Excluded Combination of Modules
- MATH1551 Maths for Engineers and Scientists
Aims
- To introduce students to fundamental concepts from linear algebra, calculus and mathematics that are necessary for and relevant to modern Computer Science.
- To introduce students to the application of linear algebra, calculus and mathematics to topics within mainstream Computer Science.
Content
- Sets, functions and relations
- The notion and methods of mathematical proof
- Matrix algebra, determinants, and linear systems
- Vector spaces, linear dependence, basis and dimension
- Linear transformations, eigenvectors, and eigenvalues
- Matrix decompositions
- Sequences, limits, and continuity
- Differentiation and integration
- Series
- Differential equations
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- On completion of the module, students will be able to demonstrate:
- an understanding of the fundamental notions from linear algebra, calculus and mathematics and their relevance to mainstream Computer Science
- an understanding of the concept of a mathematical proof
- an understanding of mathematical notation.
Subject-specific Skills:
- On completion of the module, students will be able to demonstrate:
- an ability to apply methods and techniques from linear algebra, calculus and mathematics
- an ability to reason with and and apply methods of mathematical proof
- an ability to use mathematical notation.
Key Skills:
- On completion of the module, students will be able to demonstrate:
- an ability to apply mathematical reasoning to practical scenarios
- an ability to formalise general arguments.
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module
- Lectures enable the students to learn new material relevant to linear algebra, calculus and mathematics, as well as their applications in Computer Science
- Practical classes enable the students to put into practice learning from lectures and strengthen their understanding through application.
- Formative and summative assessments assess the application of methods and techniques, and examinations in addition assess an understanding of core concepts.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
| Activity | Number | Frequency | Duration | Total/Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| lectures | 44 | 2 per week | 1 hour | 44 | |
| practical classes | 21 | 1 per week | 2 hours | 42 | ■ |
| preparation and reading | 114 | ||||
| total | 200 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: Examination | Component Weighting: 66% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| Examination | 2 hours | 100% | Yes |
| Component: Coursework | Component Weighting: 34% | ||
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| Practical work | 100% | Yes | |
Formative Assessment:
Example formative exercises are given during the course. Additional revision lectures may be arranged in the module's lecture slots in the 3rd term.
■ 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