A Foundation in Applied Mathematics

Course Coordinator: Dr Debby D Wang, PhD (CityU), MIEEE

Course Developers: Rocky Fan, HKMU; and Mike Robertshaw, HKMU

This course is one of the two mathematics foundation courses offered to adult learners who will begin their study through distance learning with blended learning support. It should be of particular interest to those studying mathematics or applied science. No specific academic entry requirement is set for this course; however, it is assumed that learners enrolled on this course should have the standard equivalent to a pass in mathematics in the Certificate Examination. While learners will be expected to have sufficient knowledge of English to study in this language, the course will provide support in Chinese to assist learners with the transition to university-level study in English. A specially prepared diagnostic quiz is available to prospective MATH S122 students from the HKMU's Information Centre free-of-charge.

MATH S122 forms an excluded combination with MATH S101, MATH S112 and MATH S282.

Aims
This course aims to:

• Provide you with experience in distance learning with blended learning support;
• Develop your analytical skills for independent study;
• Provide you with a transition between school and university mathematics;
• Lead you to appreciate the discipline of mathematics;
• Develop your skills in handling mathematical activities;
• Prepare you for middle and higher-level courses in mathematics and applied science;
• Improve your confidence in studying in English.

Contents
The course covers the following topics:

• Relations and functions
• Systems of equations
• Matrices and vectors
• Differentiation and integration
• Statistics

Learning support
There will be regular face-to-face lectures, tutorials and surgeries throughout the course.

Assessment
There are four assignments, two computer-marked assignments (all assignment scores count towards the final grade) and a final examination. Students are required to submit assignments via the Online Learning Environment (OLE).

Online requirement
This course is supported by the Online Learning Environment (OLE). You can find the latest course information from the OLE. Through the OLE, you can communicate electronically with your tutor and the Course Coordinator as well as other students. To access the OLE, students will need to have access to the Internet. The use of the OLE is required for the study and assessment of this course.

Equipment
You will need access to a scientific calculator and a computer system operating under Windows XP or above.

Software
You will be required to purchase a copy of the software package Scientific Notebook. Some units and assignments will include work with this software.

Set book(s)
Weir, Hass and Giordano (2016) Thomas' Calculus, 13th edn, Pearson Education.

Students with disabilities or special educational needs
MATH S122 may present difficulties if learners have a severe aural or visual disability, due to the computer, audio and video components. Learners are encouraged to seek advice from the Course Coordinator before enrolling on the course.