There is no specific mathematical syllabus for this module. Students will study a topic in mathematics or statistics, either individually or within a small group, and produce an individual or group project on the topic as well as individual coursework assignments. Projects will be chosen from published lists of individual and of group projects. The coursework and project-work are supported by a series of workshops covering various forms of written and oral communication and by supervision from an academic member of staff.
The workshops may include critically evaluating the following: a research article in mathematics or statistics; a survey or magazine article aimed at a scientifically-literate but non-specialist audience; a mathematical biography; a poster presentation of a mathematical topic; a curriculum vitae; an oral presentation with slides or board; a video or podcast on a mathematical topic. Guidance will be given on typesetting mathematics using LaTeX.
Total contact hours: 16
Private study hours: 284
Total study hours: 300
100% coursework
Mathematical texts will depend on the coursework set. The following texts are recommended in conjunction with the workshops:
Stephen G. Krantz,, A Primer of Mathematical Writing, A.M.S., 1997.
Kevin Houston, How to think like a mathematician: a companion to undergraduate mathematics, C.U.P., 2009.
Hilary Glasman-Deal, Science Research Writing for Non-Native Speakers of English, Imperial College Press, 2009.
Anne E. Greene, Writing science in plain English, University of Chicago Press, 2013.
Alan Beardon, Creative Mathematics: a gateway to research, C.U.P., 2009.
Carmine Gallo, Talk Like TED: The 9 Public Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds, Macmillan, 2014.
Toby Oetiker, The not so short introduction to LaTeX, available online, 1995.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 demonstrate a reasonable ability to plan and develop a project themed in mathematics or statistics;
2 convey a systematic understanding of key aspects of a topic in mathematics or statistics;
3 demonstrate a reasonable level of skill in written and oral presentation of a topic in mathematics or statistics;
4 show judgement in the selection and presentation of material to communicate with both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 manage their own learning and make use of appropriate resources;
2 communicate straightforward arguments and conclusions reasonably accurately and clearly;
3 manage their time and use their organisational skills to plan and implement efficient and effective modes of working;
4 make competent use of information technology skills such as word-processing and online resources (Moodle);
5 communicate technical and non-technical material competently;
6 demonstrate the acquisition of the study skills needed for continuing professional development.
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