School of Computer Science

Module 06-21254 (2011)

Mathematical Techniques for Computer Science

Level 2/I

Achim Jung Semester 1 10 credits
Co-ordinator: Achim Jung
Reviewer: Hamid Dehghani
The Module Description is a strict subset of this Syllabus Page.

Aims

The aims of this module are to:

  • present mathematical techniques that underly Computer Science
  • present these techniques in a sample Computer Science context
  • illustrate the power of mathematics in solving problems in Computer Science
  • provide an introduction to Linear Algebra, Set Theory, Structural Induction, and Probability

Learning Outcomes

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

  • solve simple mathematical problems in the areas covered by the module
  • apply a given mathematical technique to solve a problem within a computer science setting

Teaching methods

2 hrs/week of lectures plus 1 hr/week exercise classes.

Assessment

  • Sessional: 1.5 hr examination (80%), continuous assessment (20%).
  • Supplementary: By examination only.

Detailed Syllabus

  1. Linear Algebra
    • solving systems of linear equations
    • describing geometric objects in the plane and in space
    • matrices
  2. The language of sets
    • sets
    • functions
    • relations
  3. Induction
    • inductive definitions
    • recursive functions
    • proof by structural induction
  4. Probability
    • finite probabilities
    • distributions

Programmes containing this module