The aim of this module is to provide a thorough background in engineering mathematics and equip you with the mathematical skills essential for solving engineering problems. The module also introduces the use of computing methods in engineering. The mathematics part comprises algebra, functions, logarithms, trigonometry, calculus, differential equations and vectors. The computing part covers the use of software for problem solving, visualisation and data representation. The emphasis is on using mathematical and computational tools to solve engineering problems.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
The module is delivered through a variety of formal lectures, informal tutorials and an extensive practical programme in the computing laboratories to provide all students with essential theory and practice in mathematics and computational methods. Class text materials are available in a Virtual Learning Environment (Canvas VLE) whilst the university computer network offers a range of IT software to support the diverse needs of computing for problem solving. Additionally, there are links shown in the VLE which allow students to access Kingston University tutorials covering a range of mathematical subjects within the syllabus as well as links to other relevant sites. Students will be expected to integrate the range of skills learned during the module in the preparation of coursework reports. The lectures will outline theory which will be explored further, during the tutorials, by encouraging students to attempt a number of example problems under close supervision. A significant component of the module comprises computer workshops to develop students' skills in numerical procedures and statistical analysis based on standard computer packages.
A substantial portion of the learning hours assigned to this module are guided independent study. There is a wide variation in mathematics skills amongst level 4 students, so the time required for independent guided learning will vary significantly between individuals. A rough breakdown of how this will be spent is given in the table below.
Students will be provided with sets of structured practice problems for the mathematical and computational techniques discussed in the module. Answers to the problems will be provided, which will help students build confidence in applying the techniques and also provide feedback on their progress. The problem sets will also include more challenging problems which show how the techniques can be applied in engineering practice. These problems that go beyond the minimum requirements will be identified in the problem sets and will give students with a stronger mathematical and computing background an opportunity to deepen their understanding.
A detailed schedule of when students are expected to complete each problem set will be provided and progress against this schedule will be discussed in the personal tutoring sessions. This will support students in achieving the outcome of being able to recognise their own academic strengths and weaknesses, reflect on performance and progress and respond to feedback. It will also enable tutors to help students determine whether they need additional support through the SEC Academic Skills Centre. The tutorials will also be used to encourage students to form informal study sets to help work through the problems.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | 16 two-hour interactive lectures 8 two-hour flipped classroom lecture slots 10 two-hour maths tutorials 12 hands on interactive computing sessions | 32 16 20 24 |
| Guided independent study | Prep/Review of lectures Maths problem sets Software Practice Computing Reports Preparation for Final | 60 65 30 23 30 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Summative assessment is through a portfolio of reports worth 50% comprising computing coursework reports linked to the use of appropriate software. Formative assessment will be provided in the form of regular, detailed and immediate feedback during the tutorials and computing sessions and on set tasks throughout the academic year. This will give students the opportunity to improve their work for the summative assessments. There will be TWO short computing reports (500 words each) comprising analysis and discussion of data generated during the computing sessions. The module will conclude with a two-hour mathematics examination also worth 50%. Students will be provided with a standard formulae sheet to support them in the examination.
Students are encouraged throughout the module to attend the SEC academic skills centre (SASC) with their draft assignments for formative assessment on the academic content of their coursework. They are also encouraged to use the support available through MathsAid if required.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) formulate equations for engineering problems using a variety of mathematical and computational methods | Written examination and coursework |
| 2) apply differential and integral calculus in an engineering context and explore practical applications with a suitable Computer Algebra System | Written examination and coursework |
| 3) formulate mathematical solutions involving matrices, vector analysis, geometry and trigonometry and consider their applications through suitable software such as MATLAB | Written examination and coursework |
| 4) evaluate statistical data and probability both manually and by the application of computing software such as Excel | Coursework |
| 5) recognise own academic strengths and weaknesses, reflect on performance and progress and respond to feedback | Indirectly through coursework and final exam |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Final Examination (2 hours) | Written exam | 50% |
| Computing Report 1 (500 words) | Coursework | 25% |
| Computing Report 2 (500 words) | Coursework | 25% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
Singh, K. (2011) Engineering Mathematics through Applications. Palgrave Macmillan.
James, G. (2011) Modern Engineering Mathematics. Pearson
Croft, C. and Davison R. (2010) Mathematics for Engineers. Pearson
Stroud, K. A. (2007) Engineering Mathematics. Palgrave Macmillan.
Stroud, K. A. (2009) Foundation Mathematics. Palgrave Macmillan.
Greenaway, R. (2010) Introduction to MATLAB. Palgrave Macmillan.
McMahon, D. (2007) MATLAB Demystified. McGraw-Hill Professional
Wolfram|Alpha, a search engine for mathematics and science