Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2024-2025

Module COMP1021: MATHEMATICS FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE

Department: Computer Science

COMP1021: MATHEMATICS FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE

Type Open Level 1 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2024/2025 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • A-level Mathematics Grade A.

Corequisites

  • COMP1051 Computational Thinking

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • MATH1551 Maths for Engineers and Scientists AND MATH1071 Linear Algebra I

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