Mathematical modelling and problem solving

About the course

This course teaches mathematical modelling and structured problem solving, through a number of carefully selected problems from different areas of application. It is primarily intended for students with limited experience in the use of mathematics in engineering, but which may come to work in different areas where mathematics is used or may be useful. The course then intends to bridge the gap between theoretical courses in mathematics and relevant applications, and teach how to actually use the mathematics you already know in realistic situations.

The course is part of the second year of the IT-program at Chalmers and the Matematiska Lärarprogrammet at GU, but is highly recommended for students from other programs, for example the D-program, and the Computer Science program at GU. The main teaching language is English, but some support can be given also in Swedish. Please note that there are also other courses in mathematical modelling at Chalmers with a more classical content; the course codes for this course are DAT026 (Chalmers) and DIT991 (GU), and for GU student teachers LGMA65.

Official course plan

A note on the purpose and pedagogy of the course

Course content and structure

The core of the course is a number of problems in seven weekly modules. The problems are available from the Problem Modules page. The normal schedule of a module is the following:

• Introductory lecture (Monday). A general introduction to the the type of models considered in the module and preparation for the problems. Availability of any printed material for the module.
• Problem solving work during the week. The problems are completed and handed in on Sunday or slightly later depending on the particular week. Consulting times allowing students to get help are offered several times during the week. One short compulsory meeting during the week.
• Follow-up lecture the following week (Thursday). This is a compulsory follow up lecture providing feedback on the problems and additional comments. However, attend this lecture ONLY if you have handed in your answers to the module!
• After the follow-up lecture, you are finally asked to reflect on your problem solving and your learning in a second submission.

In case of irregularities in the study period, there may be some exceptions to the schedule that will be posted well in advance.

There are also a few special lectures:

• Introduction to modelling and problem solving (first Thursday)
• Special lectures on mathematical thinking, modelling, problem solving (later in the course)

Examination and final grading

The course is examined continuously through the module submissions and through a final report. Grading will be based on a qualitative assessment of the modules together with the final report.

We ask you to work in pairs. If you are having trouble finding a partner, please email slrn@chalmers.se.

If you should not complete the course in time, and need to come back next year, please note that it is in your best interest to keep copies of your solutions to enable future assessment.