Mathematical Methods, Models and Modelling

Teaching is supported and enhanced by use of a computer algebra package. This module is essential for higher level study of applied mathematics. To study this module you’ll need a sound knowledge of mathematics as developed in Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) and Essential mathematics 2 (MST125) or equivalent.

What you will study

This Mathematical Methods, Models and Modelling module at The Open University will be of particular interest to you if you use mathematics or mathematical reasoning in your work and feel that you need a firmer grounding in it, or if you think you might find it useful to extend your application of mathematics to a wider range of problems. The module is also very suitable for those planning to teach applied mathematics.

Around half of this module is about using mathematical models to represent suitable aspects of the real world; the other half is about mathematical methods that are useful in working with such models. The work on models is devoted mainly to the study of classical mechanics, although non-mechanical models – such as those used in population dynamics – are also studied.

The process of mathematical modelling, based on simplifying assumptions about the real world, is outlined. You will work in groups to create a mathematical model and to produce a mini-report. The work on methods comprises topics chosen for their usefulness in dealing with the models; the main emphasis is on solving the problems arising in the real world, rather than on axiom systems or rigorous proofs. These methods include differential equations, linear algebra, advanced calculus and numerical methods.