Applied Mathematical Modelling requires more than simply technical mathematical and computational skill. Critical and judicious simplification and approximation are required in order to determine how a system should be modelled, what predictions are of interest, what parameters need to be estimated, and what level of accuracy is required. Successful models generally require collaboration between modellers and scientists of the relevant discipline, both in their design and exploitation. It also takes considerable skill and experience to learn how to present modelling results to scientists who do not have a mathematical or computational modelling background.
These skills can only be developed through a combination of independent study, oral and written reports, and discussion with peers and supervisors. This module will enable students to take part in these activities in order to develop their ability to review modelling studies critically, and indicate how they may be tested, refined and exploited further.
The principal part of the module is the preparation of a summer research project which will develop either novel research or review and reflection on research, or a combination of the two. The project title will be chosen by the student working with their supervisor The project will be assessed on a written report by the student, a 20 minute oral presentation, (ending with up to 10 minutes of questions from peers and supervisors) and a report by the supervisor on the student’s overall performance and independence.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Read, understand and critically review research papers in Applied Mathematics for both their scientific and mathematical content.
Take part in research-level critical discussions of modelling studies
Identify ways in which models may be tested, developed or improved.
Study independently with limited supervision.
Present critical analysis of research in the form of a written report, an oral presentation, and be able to answer questions on their presentation.
Interpret the implications of modelling with respect to the relevant discipline in addition to mathematical and computational aspects.
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessments:
Written final project report (90%), project oral presentation (10%),
Reassessment:
Written final project report resubmission (90%), project oral presentation reassessment (10%)