Mathematical Investigations

Overview

This module is concerned with the investigation processes of mathematics, including the construction of conjectures based on simple examples and the testing of these with further examples, aided by computers where appropriate. A variety of case studies will be used to illustrate these processes. A series of group and individual investigations will be made by students under supervision, an oral presentation will be made on one of these investigations. While some of the investigations require little more than GCSE as a background, students will be required to undertake at least one investigation which needs knowledge of Mathematics at Level 2 or Level 3 standard and/or some background reading.

Learning Objectives

It is intended that the students shall, on successful completion of the module, be able: to reformulate a complex problem in abstract language, and thereby to analyse and understand the given problem in mathematical terms; to find solutions of a given problem by mathematical analysis; to communicate the results in precise language, in particular specifying the assumptions made while solving the problem, and verifying the correctness of the solution; to work individually and as members of a team on a complex problem, combining information from various sources and validating their correctness.

Skills

Research skills, presentational skills. Use of many sources of information.

Assessment

Report submissions; oral presentation.