MA2600 - Introduction to Modern Computational Mathematics

Credit points:	03
Year:	2013
Student Contribution Band:	Band 2
Administered by:	School of Engineering

This introduction to modern mathematical computation provides a new approach to the teaching and learning of computer packages. Many introductions to computer packages aim to teach the syntax (rules and structure) and semantics (meaning) of the system as efficiently as possible but not why it is necessary to learn such things. By contrast, this subject will demonstrate that mathematical software tools such as Maple are effective tools with a wide range of applications in areas of mathematics, mathematics education, computer science, engineering and science. How computation and experimention can help build mathematical intuition and knowledge is a theme that will be emphasised throughout the subject.

Learning Outcomes

• skills in using a computer algebra system;
• enhanced understanding of mathematics and improved mathematical problem solving skills from using and experimenting with computer assisted mathematics.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to adapt knowledge to new situations;
• The ability to define and to solve problems in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments, and to reason and deploy evidence clearly and logically;
• The ability to deploy critically evaluated information to practical ends;
• The ability to find and access information using appropriate media and technologies;
• The ability to evaluate that information;
• The ability to select and organise information and to communicate it accurately, cogently, coherently, creatively and ethically;
• The acquisition of coherent and disciplined sets of skills, knowledge, values and professional ethics from at least one discipline area;
• The ability to reflect on and evaluate learning, and to learn independently in a self directed manner;
• The ability to read complex and demanding texts accurately, critically and insightfully;
• The ability to generate, calculate, interpret and communicate numerical information in ways appropriate to a given discipline or discourse;
• The ability to work individually and independently;
• The ability to select and use appropriate tools and technologies.

Prerequisites:

MA1003

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 29-Aug-2013
Coord/Lect:	Dr Darcy Mullamphy.
Contact hours:	26 hours lectures 26 hours - Computer Lab
Assessment:	quizzes or tests (30% - 50%); assignments (50% - 70%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.