Modules | Department of Mathematical Sciences

Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.

Title	Mathematical IT skills
Code	MATH111
Coordinator	Dr SA Fairfax Mathematical Sciences Simon.Fairfax@liverpool.ac.uk
Year	CATS Level	Semester	CATS Value
Session 2025-26	Level 4 FHEQ	First Semester	15

Aims

•To acquire key mathematics-specific computer skills.
•To reinforce mathematics as a practical discipline by active experience and experimentation, using the computer as a tool.
•To illustrate and amplify mathematical concepts and techniques.
•To initiate and develop problem solving, group work and report writing skills.
•To initiate and develop modelling skills.
•To develop team work skills.

Learning Outcomes
(LO1) Develop the ability to implement and execute fundamental algorithms, including variable assignment, mathematical operations, and function definitions, to solve mathematical problems using mathematical software packages.
(LO2) Apply strategic problem-solving methodologies to conceptualize, plan, and execute mathematical solutions within a mathematical coding framework.
(LO3) Produce written reports detailing solutions to mathematical problems containing formulae, tables, plots, and references.
(LO4) Formulate and reflect upon technical findings using digital media.
(LO5) Knowledge of academic integrity with reference to the University of Liverpool’s Code of Practice on Assessment.
(S1) Problem solving skills
(S2) Numeracy
(S3) Communication skills
(S4) IT skills
(S5) Teamwork
(S6) Adaptability
(S7) Leadership
(S8) Mathematical modelling skills

Syllabus

Weeks 1-6:

Introduction to MWS and University of Liverpool electronic resources.
Mathematical software packages:
Interface, help system, production of reports.
Numerical computations.
Basic symbolic computations.
Basic types of objects.
Names, assignments, expressions, functions. Expression manipulation.
Solving algebraic equations. Calculus. Plotting.
Linear algebra packages. Vectors and Matrices.
Elements of programming (loops and conditionals).

Week 7:

Workshop to develop team work skills.

Weeks 8-12:

Group project work in different areas using mathematical software packages for investigation and for presentation of the results.

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.

Pre-requisites before taking this module (other modules and/or general educational/academic requirements):

Co-requisite modules:

Modules for which this module is a pre-requisite:

Programme(s) (including Year of Study) to which this module is available on a required basis:

Programme(s) (including Year of Study) to which this module is available on an optional basis:

Assessment
EXAM	Duration	Timing (Semester)	% of final mark	Resit/resubmission opportunity	Penalty for late submission	Notes

CONTINUOUS	Duration	Timing (Semester)	% of final mark	Resit/resubmission opportunity	Penalty for late submission	Notes
Individual assignments (1) There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment.	0		25
Group project 1 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment.	0		25
Group project 2 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment.	0		25
Individual assignments (2) There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment.	0		25
Academic Integrity Module with assessment on Canvas Resit opportunities: Students who pass all other assessment components of the module but fail the module because of failing the Academic Integri	0		0