Mathematics II [SMATB223]

3 credits
15h+20h
1^st quarter
Language of instruction: French / Français
Teacher: De Vleeschouwer Martine

Learning outcomes

- Define rigorously a notion seen in the course; give a geometrical interpretation of it; explain in which fields of application it is found (precise examples). - Be able to interpret and manipulate a mathematical formula; demonstrate mathematical properties. - From a problem situation, isolate the data and unknowns; model; represent the situation; solve the problem; interpret the results; judge their plausibility. - Apply without hesitation the techniques appropriate to the solution of numerical problems related to the subjects taught.

Objectives

This course addresses mathematics as a discipline serving the biological sciences, and in particular the statistics course. In this sense, it will zoom in on certain mathematical notions used in statistics (elementary calculation, sum symbol, set elements, matrices, functions of two variables, etc.) and will develop its mathematical components. The mathematics covered has a dual purpose: to complement the mathematics of the statistics course and to provide a general mathematical culture to tackle certain problems (e.g. problems of optimisation of functions in two variables).

Content

Some elements of mathematical language are introduced to facilitate the understanding of statistics courses (sum symbol, set theory, predicate logic). We then introduce functions of several variables and we tackle optimization problems in two variables. The course ends with matrix algebra, including the presentation of Leslie matrices.

Teaching methods

The teaching will first of all make sure that the mathematical notions dealt with are related to the statistics course. Once the link is established, mathematical developments will be presented in order to deepen certain notions. The student will also be required to use their mathematical knowledge in a modelling context. We take the time to introduce each new concept carefully and to explain clearly why things work and how they work. Applications will be provided to enable the student to develop strategies for tackling problems that do not follow a pre-determined 'recipe'. During the tutorials, the student will be asked to interact, to state his or her solution and to compare it with that of another student. The pedagogy used therefore aims to give meaning to learning so that it is transferable.

Evaluations

Formula: written examination offered in January and August. The assessment will consist of a written examination including both exercises and theory (in particular demonstrations of the properties covered). The difficulty of the exercises will be comparable to that of the exercises presented in the course and in tutorials. An assessment will be organised in January (first session) and August (second session). The use of a calculator is not allowed. If the exam is done online (distance learning), an update of the proposed formula may take place.

Language of instruction

French / Français

Location for course

NAMUR

Organizer

Faculté des sciences
Rue de Bruxelles, 61
5000 NAMUR

Degree of Reference

Undergraduate Degree

	Block	Credits
Bachelier en sciences biologiques	2	3