- An undergraduate course
in
Mathematics and Statistics
and
Science.
Mathematical methods
- On this page
| Course facts | |
|---|---|
| About this course: | |
| Course code | MST224 |
| Credits | 30 |
| OU Level | 2 |
| SCQF level | 9 |
| FHEQ level | 5 |
| Course work includes: | |
| 4 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) | |
| 4 Interactive computer-marked assignments (iCMAs) | |
| Examination | |
| No residential school | |
This course is designed to teach you about a variety of mathematical methods which are used in modelling through their application to solving real world problems. These methods include differential equations, linear algebra and vector calculus. You will become familiar with new mathematical skills mainly by using pencil and paper and by thinking. This course will give you a good foundation for higher-level study and is essential preparation for most Open University Level 3 mathematics, statistics or physics courses. To study this course you should have a sound knowledge of algebra, calculus, and geometry as provided by the appropriate Level 1 study.
Modules at Level 2 assume that you are suitably prepared for study at this level. If you want to take a single module to satisfy your career development needs or pursue particular interests, you don’t need to start at Level 1 but you do need to have adequately prepared yourself for OU study in some other way. Check with our Student Registration & Enquiry Service to make sure that you are sufficiently prepared.
Register for the course
What you will study
The mathematical methods covered by this course are the core analytic methods that are useful for modelling the real world. The analytical (as opposed to numerical) solution of first and second-order ordinary differential equations is discussed, followed by linear algebra (vectors, matrices and determinants). We develop the elements of the calculus of functions of several variables, including vector calculus, which is followed by an introduction to methods for solving partial differential equations.
These mathematical methods are illustrated by putting them in the context of real world applications (such as simple mechanical systems). You will be assessed only on your mathematical skills, not on your knowledge of the context used. The course teaches 'pencil and paper' mathematical skills: although it explains where numerical methods are important, there is no programming or special software required.
You will learn all the core mathematical methods that are needed for further studies in applied sciences. In further study you will begin to appreciate the power of the methods introduced here – they are applicable in a very wide variety of situations.
The course is delivered as printed material in four books. There are some optional supporting materials on the website.
Entry
This is a Level 2 course and you need a good knowledge of the subject area, obtained either from Level 1 study with the OU or from equivalent work at another university.
You should have a basic knowledge of algebra, calculus, and geometry.
This course is designed to follow on from Essential mathematics 1 (MST124), which will be available for the first time in February 2014. However, the Level 1 course Using mathematics (MST121) is also good preparation, but some extra study material is provided to support students from MST121. You are more likely to successfully complete this Level 2 course if you have acquired your prerequisite knowledge through passing one of these Level 1 courses.
Our diagnostic quiz will help you to determine whether you are adequately prepared for this module.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the course, please contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the Module Regulations and the Student Regulations which are available on our Essential documents website.
If you have a disability
Written transcripts of any audio components and Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) versions of printed material are available. Some Adobe PDF components may not be available or fully accessible using a screen reader. Other alternative formats of the study materials may be available in the future. Our Services for disabled students website has the latest information about availability.
If you have particular study requirements please tell us as soon as possible, as some of our support services may take several weeks to arrange. Visit our Services for disabled students website for more information, including:
- help to determine your study requirements and how to request the support that you need
- Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs)
- using a computer for OU study
- equipment and other support services that we offer
- examination arrangements
- how to contact us for advice and support both before you register and while you are studying.
Study materials
What's included
Four course books, a handbook (which can be taken into the examination), optional simulations and other support material on the website, assessment materials.
Computing requirements
You will need a computer with internet access to study this course as it includes online activities, which you can access using a web browser.
- If you have purchased a new desktop or laptop computer since 2007 you should have no problems completing the online activities.
- If you’ve got a netbook, tablet or other mobile computing device check our Technical requirements section.
- If you use an Apple Mac you will need OS X 10.6 or later.
You can also visit the Technical requirements section for further computing information including the details of the support we provide.
Teaching and assessment
Support from your tutor
You will have a tutor who will help you with the study material and mark and comment on your written work, and whom you can ask for advice and guidance. We may also be able to offer group tutorials in your locality that you are encouraged, but not obliged, to attend, and there is an online forum. Where your tutorials are held will depend on the distribution of students taking the course.
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.
You can choose whether to submit your tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) on paper or online. Details of how to submit online will be provided before the course starts. You may want to submit some of your assignments online but submit on paper for others. This is entirely your choice.
Future availability
The details given here are for the course that starts in October 2013. We expect it to be available once a year.
How to register
To register a place on this course return to the top of the page and use the Click to register button.
Distance learning
The Open University is the world’s leading provider of flexible, high quality distance learning. Unlike other universities we are not campus based. You will study in a flexible way that works for you whether you’re at home, at work or on the move. As an OU student you’ll be supported throughout your studies – your tutor or study adviser will guide and advise you, offer detailed feedback on your assignments, and help with any study issues. Tuition might be in face-to-face groups, via online tutorials, or by phone.
For more information read Distance learning explained.
Undergraduate
| Course facts | |
|---|---|
| About this course: | |
| Course code | MST224 |
| Credits | 30 |
| OU Level | 2 |
| SCQF level | 9 |
| FHEQ level | 5 |
| Course work includes: | |
| 4 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) | |
| 4 Interactive computer-marked assignments (iCMAs) | |
| Examination | |
| No residential school | |
Your questions
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