Approximation theory
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| Examination | No residential school |
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Summary
Approximation theory is concerned with approximating functions of a given class using functions from another, usually more elementary, class. A simple example is the problem of approximating a function such as ex by means of polynomial functions. The efficient solution of such problems is of great importance for computing, and this MSc in Mathematics course will give you a general introduction to the mathematical theory behind many approximation methods in common use.
Course content
The course is based on Approximation Theory and Methods by M. J. D. Powell (Cambridge University Press, 1981). You will need a scientific calculator, as the course requires you to work quite a lot of numerical problems.
Entry
You must be registered for the MSc in Mathematics or other qualification to which the course can count. You should have at least second-class honours in a mathematical degree, or in another degree with a high mathematical content, such as engineering or theoretical physics. In exceptional circumstances applicants without this qualification will be considered, although non-graduates will not normally be admitted to the MSc programme. You should have a good knowledge of real analysis and linear algebra, and some familiarity with metric spaces. An adequate preparation would be our undergraduate-level courses Mathematical methods and models (MST209) (or the discontinued courses MST207 or MST204) and Pure mathematics (M208) (or the discontinued courses M201, M203 or M231). No explicit use is made of the theory of complex variables, but a knowledge of the subject, as in Complex analysis (M337) (or the discontinued course M332), would be useful, since it has many techniques in common with approximation theory. If you have any doubt about the suitability of the course, please contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service.
Qualifications
M832 is an optional course in our
- Postgraduate Certificate in Mathematics (C90)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Mathematics (E23)
- MSc in Mathematics (F04)
Some postgraduate qualifications allow study to be chosen from other subject areas. We advise you to refer to the relevant qualification descriptions for information on the circumstances in which this course can count towards these qualifications because from time to time the structure and requirements may change.
If you have a disability or additional requirement
The material contains small print and diagrams, which may cause problems if you find reading text difficult. You will also need to be able to use a scientific calculator.
If you are a new student, or new to courses using a computer or the internet, you will need to inform us of your particular needs as soon as possible, as some of our support services may take several weeks to arrange. Details of how to do this and our range of support services are described in our booklet Meeting Your Needs which you can download or request from our Student Registration & Enquiry Service.
You can also find information about accessible course materials, financial support and the Disabled Students' Allowance, equipment and other services, on our Services for disabled students website. It also includes our contact details for advice and support both before you register and while you are studying.
Course materials
What's included
Course texts, other printed materials.
You will need
A Scientific calculator.
We recommend that you have access to the internet at least once a week during the course and would like to point out that vital material, such as your assignments, may be delivered online.
Computing requirements
This course includes online computer activities – you can access these using a web browser that can play Flash and Shockwave.
You will need internet access and a computer. If you have purchased a new computer since 2002 it should meet your course computing requirements. Check our Technical Requirements section if your computer is older than this or is otherwise unusual.
Materials to buy
Set books
- Powell, M J D Approximation Theory and Methods, Cambridge University Press £38.00 - ISBN 9780521295147 (This book is Print on Demand and can be ordered through any bookseller and also Eddington Hook, tel. +44 (0)1892 839 816, www.eddington-hook.co.uk/ou, who may have copies in stock.)
Teaching and assessment
Support from your tutor
You will have a tutor who will help you with the course material and mark and comment on your written work, and whom you can ask for advice and guidance. Contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service if you want to know more about study with The Open University before you register.
Assessment
The assessment details for this course can be found in the facts box above.
TMAs on MSc in Mathematics courses can be submitted electronically using a special maths eTMA processor which is used in place of the main eTMA system. We strongly recommend you submit the TMAs electronically, but there will be the facility to submit TMAs on paper.
Assessment is an essential part of the teaching, so you are expected to complete it all. But if you unavoidably miss or do badly in an assignment, some courses allow you a ‘substitution score’, calculated as a weighted average of all your scores for the course. In M832 this rule can apply to one assignment only. You will be given more detailed information when you begin the course.
Students also studied
Students who studied this course also studied at some time:
Future availability
This course is offered in odd-numbered years only and the details given here are for the course starting date in February 2011.
How to register
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept online registrations for this course in the usual way. Instead, you may apply electronically using the MSc Mathematics application system.
About this page
A postgraduate course in Mathematics and Statistics.
Study explained
- Course
- - a module of study that can count towards a qualification.
- Credit points
- - show how much study is required to complete a course or qualification. One credit point represents roughly 10 hours of study.
- Financial support
- - find out if you qualify for support with your fees with our eligibility checker.
- Study explained
- - all you need to know about studying with the OU.
Student Reviews
A very disappointing course. Although the TMAs were relatively accessible this was in spite of the worst text book I've ...
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I'm sorry Neil was disappointed with M832, which has run for many years without such strong criticism. The textbook, by ...
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