Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024 (archived)

Module MATH1551: MATHS FOR ENGINEERS & SCIENTISTS

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH1551: MATHS FOR ENGINEERS & SCIENTISTS

Type Open Level 1 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2023/24 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Normally, A level Mathematics at grade A or better, or equivalent.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Calculus (Maths Hons) (MATH1081), Calculus I (MATH1061), Linear Algebra I (Maths Hons) (MATH1091), Linear Algebra I (MATH1071), Single Mathematics A (MATH1561), Single Mathematics B (MATH1571), COMP1021 (Mathematics for Computer Science) may not be taken with or after this module.

Aims

  • This module is designed to supply mathematics relevant to students of Engineering and other sciences.

Content

  • Introductory review.
  • Complex numbers.
  • Differentiation.
  • Vectors.
  • Partial differentiation.
  • Integration.
  • Linear algebra.
  • Ordinary differential equations.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of the module students will: be able to solve a range of predictable or less predictable problems for Engineers and Scientists.
  • have an awareness of the basic concepts of theoretical mathematics in these areas.
  • have a broad knowledge and basic understanding of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas:
  • Elementary functions.
  • Calculus.
  • Complex numbers.
  • Vectors.
  • Partial differentiation.
  • Linear algebra.
  • Ordinary differential equations.
Subject-specific Skills:
    Key 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.
    • Summative weekly coursework provides an incentive 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.
    • 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 60 3 per week in weeks 1-10, 11-14, 16-20, 21 1 Hour 60
    Tutorials 9 Fortnightly in weeks 3-9, 14-20, and one in week 21 1 Hour 9
    Other (Revision periods) 2 In induction week, and in week 1 2 Hours 4
    Preparation and Reading 127
    Total 200

    Summative Assessment

    Component: Examination Component Weighting: 90%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    Written examination 3 hours 100% Yes
    Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 10%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    One written and electronic assignment each teaching week 100% Completing May/June exam paper over the summer, to be returned by the start of the resit exam period

    Formative Assessment:

    45 minute collection paper


    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