MA1MSP-Mathematical and Statistical Programming

Module Provider: Mathematics and Statistics
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: MA1CA Calculus MA1LA Linear Algebra MA1FM Foundations of Mathematics ST1PS Probability and Statistics
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Julia Abery
Email: j.abery@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module introduces students to the valuable skill of programming with clear links to applications in mathematics and statistics. Programming concepts will be taught in the context of the Matlab programming language but are applicable to other programming languages, including statistical languages such as R and SAS. Examples from other mathematics and statistics modules taken will be used to illustrate various programming techniques.

Aims:

• To develop basic and intermediate programming skills in the context of other modules being taken;


• To introduce the concepts of program design;


• To introduce a variety of computer languages relevant to mathematics and statistics;


• To introduce good programming practice in the structure, maintenance and in-program documentation of the code;


• 'To develop skills in displaying results visually using graphics capabilities of the languages;To be able to display results visually using graphics capabilities of the languages;


• By the end of the module students should be able to dissect a given problem into an algorithm suitable for programming in a variety of languages.

Assessable learning outcomes:

• Students will be able demonstrate the ability to transfer mathematical and statistical problems into programs across a variety of different programming languages;


• Students will be able to demonstrate good programming practice in structure, maintenance and documentation of code;


• Student will be able to display results visually using graphics capabilities of the languages.

Additional outcomes:

• Students will further develop their transferable skills in the area of programming for the mathematical and statistical sciences;


• This module will support the learning process in the co-requisite modules.

Outline content:

• An introduction to the concept of programming, including top-down design;


• Various mathematical and statistical concepts will be analysed and appropriate programming techniques applied to facilitate solution and understanding;


• The Matlab programming language will be introduced, together with statistical  languages and packages in which developed algorithms will be implemented.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures, computer labs, self-guided study as well as summative and formative assignments. Worksheets and self- evaluation /feedback mechanisms.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	10	10
Practicals classes and workshops	10	10
Guided independent study:	80	80
Total hours by term	100	100	0
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Set exercise	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:
Not applicable.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

A number of programming assignments  and online tests during the two terms.

Formative assessment methods:
A number of non-assessed programming exercises and worksheets to illustrate the material being taught, resulting in detailed feedback to enhance programming skills.

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: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/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 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Alternative coursework.

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: 12 March 2024