Introductory description

The module provides an overview of using the computer as a tool to provide intuition, guide and test hypotheses, enhance understanding and make predictions on mathematical questions. It particularly aims at learning how to use computer-based mathematical tools (chiefly Python) through individual and group work.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Term 1:

• Fundamentals of programming in Python: input/output, conditional statements, functions, loops, lists, arrays and plotting.
• Mathematics using Python: solving equations, properties of functions, visualisation of functions and data; elementary number theory and abstract algebra, sequences and series, vectors and matrices, symbolic algebra, differential equations, probability, statistics and data analysis.

Term 2:
Group project and presentation

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Learn foundations of programming in Python
• Use Python for: plotting data, curves and surfaces; vectors and matrices; symbolic algebra and solving equations, solving differential equations; statistics and data analysis.
• Learn how to manage a group project
• Develop research skills and practice presentation skills

Indicative reading list

• M Lutz, Learning Python, O'Reilly Media Inc., 3rd edition, 2007.
• JV Guttag, Introduction to Computation and Programming Using Python, MIT Press, 2nd edition, 2016.

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

At the end of the module, students will be able to use software (currently Python but it may change in future, depending on the industry trends) to create simple programs and perform interactive analysis. They will understand rudimentary computer programming control structures and graph functions. They will use the computer to study various topics in mathematics including algebra, number theory, sequences and series, vectors and matrices, differential equations, probability, statistics and data analysis.

Transferable skills

The module will teach students basic computer skills and their relationship with mathematics. It will encourage them to use the computer as an exploratory tool research and equip them with foundational programming knowledge. They will also learn to work in a group.