Scientific Computing 1 - 2019 entry

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to scientific computing. The overarching aim is to explore the use and capability of computers in modern mathematical and scientific contexts, demonstrating how you can use them to solve and visualise the solutions to a range of diverse problems in mathematical sciences. You will develop core skills in logic, algorithms and programming implemented in Python, a powerful, open-source and widely used programming language.

Contemporary mathematics and statistics are increasingly turning to the use of computationally intensive methodologies. High-level skills in programming and scientific computing are crucial for the implementation and development of modern computational tools and are necessary for the analysis and understanding of complex mathematical models and data alike. This module will introduce you to fundamental concepts in computer programming using open-source software (Python). This module will run alongside other relevant first year subjects and will teach you how to use modern computing techniques to solve real-life problems.

On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1 understand the concepts of algorithms and their implementation;

2 demonstrate a sound understanding of basic programming, including data types, arithmetical operations, loops and conditional statements;

3 demonstrate competency in the use of scripts and functions;

4 develop and implement computer algorithms for solving a range of problems from calculus and matrix algebra;

5 demonstrate competency in data manipulation and visualisation;

6 develop good programming practice as is standard in science, business and industry.

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

7 develop fundamental skills necessary to fully understand and implement many core techniques introduced in a wide variety of modules across the programme;

8 understand the importance of reproducibility in science and industry;

Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:

9 use programming to formulate and solve problems;

10 demonstrate appropriate use of learning resources;

11 demonstrate self-management and time management skills.

- introduction to computer programming and algorithms;

- overview of the open source programming language Python;

- variables and data types;

- statements, expressions and operations;

- function calls and definitions;

- conditionals, loops and iterations;

- graphical output;

- file handling, data import and export.

If a module is normally assessed entirely by coursework, all referred/deferred assessments will normally be by assignment.

If a module is normally assessed by examination or examination plus coursework, referred and deferred assessment will normally be by examination. For referrals, only the examination will count, a mark of 40% being awarded if the examination is passed. For deferrals, candidates will be awarded the higher of the deferred examination mark or the deferred examination mark combined with the original coursework mark.

Basic reading:

ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

Web based and Electronic Resources:

Other Resources:

Reading list for this module: