KL3014 - Modelling

You will learn through a combination of lectures (theory), seminars (application of theory; problem-based learning) and workshops. Lectures will establish the underlying mathematical theory, while seminars will involve application of that theory and problem-based learning. Workshops spread throughout the module will focus on explicitly connecting your learning experience to transferable skills such as communication and critical analysis; by identifying these skills, you can strategically develop them to meet future career goals. Seminars (and some lectures) will involve structured discussions as active engagement with applying mathematical tools is essential to your development across the course.

Feedback: Verbal feedback on the pros and cons of each approach (throughout each application session, i.e. seminars and some lectures); personalised verbal feedback on independent work in seminars; detailed written feedback for each assessment.

Training: Seminar exercises are hands-on but designed to gradually develop your MATLAB skills throughout the module. Workshop-style seminars are designed to explicitly support development of skills valued from mathematics graduates and/or in the workplace generally (e.g. mathematical communication, group working skills).

Resources: Typed lecture notes; reading list; recommended material / topics for your independent learning each week; additional problems to support any weaker areas with typed, fully explained solutions.

Assessments: Designed to further develop and demonstrate the skills acquired throughout the modules. Each assessment has supporting workshops (e.g. critical analysis, communication, presentation skills).

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

Knowledge & Understanding: · MLO1: Solve a variety of modelled problems by various standard mathematical and statistical approaches. Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities: · MLO2: Develop the necessary skills and confidence to model and solve problems ‘from scratch’ using various mathematical and statistical techniques; · MLO3: Formulate simple mathematical or statistical models, solve using standard techniques, and present results in an attractive and explanatory fashion. Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA): · MLO4: Work effectively as a member of a group.

SUMMATIVE:
Summative assessments are designed to simultaneously support and assess the skills developed across the module by including independent reading, critical analysis, group research and communication in written and in-person formats. You will be assessed using two courseworks:

1. Individual report (50%) – MLO1, MLO2, MLO3. Max length: 2000 words or equivalent.
2. Group case study and presentation, with peer assessment (50%) – MLO1, MLO2, MLO3, MLO4

Coursework marks are gained partially by answers to set mathematical problems, and partially against a rubric for skills such as critical thinking and report / presentation skills.

FORMATIVE
Formative assessment will be available on a weekly basis in the formal sessions through normal lecturer-student interactions, allowing them to extend, consolidate and evaluate their knowledge.

Formative feedback will be provided on student work and errors in understanding will be addressed reactively using individual discussion. Solutions for laboratory tasks will be provided after the students have attempted the questions, allowing students to receive feedback on the correctness of their solutions and to seek help if matters are still not clear.

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The skill of applying mathematical techniques to answer real-world questions is a separate skill to understanding the mathematics itself, and is a core skill in the mathematical sciences, highly valued by employers. In this module, we focus on the skills around developing, applying and interpreting models to solve real-world problems. You will learn a variety of fundamental techniques to model real-life phenomena, find relationships between quantities and predict future outcomes. This module gives an overview of a variety of methodologies including basic data analysis, differential equations and statistical modelling. Content is designed to support you to enter a numerical degree; as we cover the different modelling techniques we will relate these to the ability to think like a mathematician and to the skills you will be developing across your undergraduate journey. Module content is primarily split between lectures (theory) and problem-solving seminars (practice), where you will apply the lecture material to a variety of problems on paper and using MATLAB. Additional workshops throughout the course provide tailored support specifically to develop transferable skills desired of graduates, such as communication, critical analysis and group dynamics.

Seminars and workshops generally include structured discussions, in order to develop skills in reasoning and creative thinking. Assessment is through two courseworks - one independent and one in groups - which are designed to be integral parts of the learning on this material.