MA4DS-Dynamical Systems

Module Provider: Mathematics and Statistics
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites: MA2DE Differential Equations and MA2VC Vector Calculus
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: MA3DS Dynamical Systems
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Peter Chamberlain
Email: p.g.chamberlain@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
The module addresses the geometric theory of planar dynamical systems.

Aims:
To develop an understanding of the elements of nonlinear differential equations and dynamical systems.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students are expected to be able to:

• analyse the structure of planar nonlinear dynamical systems;


• solve appropriate problems in nonlinear dynamics.

This module will be assessed to a greater depth than the excluded module MA3DS.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:
The course addresses the geometric theory of planar dynamical systems. This is the study of non-linear differential equations where the simple techniques used in linear equations do not apply and some interesting techniques are used to obtain useful information about nonlinear systems by investigating related linear systems and synthesising the information obtained.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures supported by problem sheets.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	20
Guided independent study:	80
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	70
Oral assessment and presentation	20
Set exercise	10

Summative assessment- Examinations:
2 hours.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

 One examination paper, one problem sheet and one oral examination.

Formative assessment methods:
Problem sheets.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

One examination paper of 2 hours duration in August/September - the resit module mark will be the higher of the exam mark (100% exam) and the exam mark plus previous coursework marks (70% exam, 30% set exercise and oral).

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 8 April 2021