Study information

Linear Algebra - 2020 entry

MODULE TITLELinear Algebra CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEECM2902 MODULE CONVENERDr Mark Callaway (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 11 0 0
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) 40
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content
This module focuses on vector spaces and linear systems, giving a rigorous treatment of algebraic techniques. The material of this module underpins several subsequent modules. Building on Vectors and Matrices, this module focuses on further in-depth studies of properties and characterization of vector spaces and manipulation of elements of vector spaces via linear maps, providing you with algebraic techniques, methodologies and some fundamental notions of modern algebra. Linear Algebra provides you with a solid base for your further studies, as it contributes to almost every field and topic within Mathematical Sciences.
This is a necessary foundation for the stage 3 module Graphs, Networks and Algorithms. Topics will include vector spaces, linear transformations, canonical forms and inner product spaces. The theoretical foundations will be complemented by a range of applied examples modelling technological and natural processes, crucially exploiting Linear Algebra to understand and enable these processes.
Pre-requisite modules: “Calculus and Geometry” (ECM1901) and “Vector and Matrices” (ECM1902) or equivalent
 
AIMS - intentions of the module

This module builds on “Vector and Matrices” (ECM1902). The aim is to advance and extend the concepts building on vectors and matrices, and to introduce theoretical foundations of algebraic theory. Algorithmic aspects and a rigorous theoretical development with proofs of theorems and methodology will be given equal importance.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

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

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1 develop a basic understanding of general vector spaces and linear maps between vector spaces;

2 develop an understanding of theory and methodologies for matrix transformation and normal forms;

3 demonstrate a basic understanding of applying linear algebra to problems in applied sciences and engineering;

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

4 demonstrate a clear understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts, manipulations and results of algebraic theory;

5 demonstrate competency in implementation of algebraic methods, and understanding of their relevance within the mathematical sciences and their applications to engineering and science;

Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:

6 reason using abstract ideas;

7 formulate and solve problems and communicate reasoning and solutions effectively in writing and presentation;

8 demonstrate appropriate use of learning resources;

9 demonstrate self- and time-management skills.

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module
- Vector spaces: definitions; subspaces; sums of vector spaces; linear independence; spans; bases and dimension;
- Linear maps and transformations: matrices of linear transformations (composing linear transformations, change of basis matrices); images and kernels; ranks and nullities; isomorphisms; invertibility;
- Eigenvalues and eigenvectors: finding eigenvalues and eigenvectors; the Cayley–Hamilton theorem; diagonalisable linear transformations (direct sums); the minimal polynomial; the Jordan canonical form (finding the Jordan canonical form, finding a Jordan basis, generalised eigenspaces);
- Inner product spaces: inner products; norms; projections; orthonormal bases (Gram-Schmidt); adjoints; Normal matrices, self-adjoint matrices, real symmetric matrices, unitary and orthogonal matrices, diagonalisability; singular value decomposition.
 
LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 44 Guided Independent Study 106 Placement / Study Abroad 0
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities 22 Formal lectures of new material
Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities 11 Worked examples
Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities 11 Tutorials for individual and group support
Guided Independent Study 106 Lecture & assessment preparation, wider reading

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
Form of Assessment Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Weekly exercise 10 x 1 hours 1-10 Exercises discussed in class, solutions provided

 

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 20 Written Exams 80 Practical Exams 0
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Two sets of problems 2 x 10
The problem sheets will cover a range of topics, some questions similar to formative exercises and others that are more in-depth
 1-10 Written and oral. Solutions provided.
Written exam - Closed book 80 2 hours 1-2, 5, 7-10 Written/verbal on request

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Original Form of Assessment Form of Re-assessment ILOs Re-assessed Time Scale for Re-assessment
All above Written exam (100%) All August Ref/Def Period

 

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

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.

RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener

Basic reading:

ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk

Reading list for this module:

Type Author Title Edition Publisher Year ISBN
Set Axler, S. Linear Algebra Done Right 2nd Springer 1997 978-0387982588
Set Sadun, L. Applied Linear Algebra 2nd AMS 2007 978-0821844410
Set Griffel, D.H. Linear Algebra and Its Applications. Vol.1, A First Course Ellis Horwood Limited 1989 000-0-745-80571-X
Set Griffel D.H. Linear Algebra and Its Applications. Vol.2, More Advanced Ellis Horwood Limited 1989 000-0-470-21354-X
CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES ECM1901, ECM1902
CO-REQUISITE MODULES
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 5 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Thursday 6th July 2017 LAST REVISION DATE Monday 17th August 2020
KEY WORDS SEARCH Algebra; Vector spaces; Linear maps; Matrix transformations; Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors; Canonical forms; Inner product spaces

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.