Module FINN1047: Quantitative Methods 1

Department: Finance

FINN1047: Quantitative Methods 1

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To provide the fundamental quantitative techniques needed for a degree in finance and cognate areas.
• Provide a rigorous introduction to the foundation mathematical techniques needed for various modules throughout the degree program.

Content

• Basic mathematical operations, introduction to set theory, basic algebra and mathematical logic.
• Functions and operators.
• Differential calculus and optimization.
• Integral calculus.
• Matrices, matrix algebra and matrix differential calculus.
• Advanced concepts in mathematics.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module students should:
• be able to undertake standard mathematical techniques and have the foundational skills to understand new methods introduced in further core and optional modules.
• be able to identify which mathematical technique is required for solving particular problems.
• understand the use of symbolic mathematical objects and operations.
• be able to apply specific mathematical operations in a variety of contexts.
• should have acquired the range of analytical mathematical skills that could be applied at later points in the program of study and be able to adapt standard approaches across a range of contexts.

• An array of mathematical skills widely used in finance and business.
• Engage in applied problem solving across a range of contexts in finance and related disciplines.

• Written communication - through summative assessment.
• Planning and organisation and time management - through the preparing for workshops, by revising relevant material and preparing for the summative assessment and In-Year Test.
• Problem solving and analysis - by applying the necessary analytical and quantitative skills.
• Initiative - by searching relevant literature and information in preparation for assessed work.
• Numeracy - by applying core mathematical skills to solve a range of problems.
• Computer literacy - through the use of appropriate mathematics software.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Interactive workshops will support students' active engagement in learning, and will identify key reading and exercises.
• The workshops combine introductory lecture style provision with active student group work and finally a plenary to review and reflect.
• Extensive use of homework problems are used to embed knowledge and skills.
• Continuous formative assessment is undertaken within the scheduled workshops.
• Summative assessment consists of conducted two In-Year Online Tests, and a summative assignment. The two 30-minute summative online tests are designed to assess understanding of core concepts and their application in specific contexts, and are taken within a specified 24-hour assessment window. The assignment requires students to demonstrate deeper analytical and problem-solving skills across a broader range of contexts.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

A range of exercises will be completed throughout the module in workshops. One practice test in-class.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.