Mathematical methods, models and modelling
Solve real problems by discovering how they’re transformed into mathematical models and learning the solution methods. This module covers classical mechanical models and non-mechanical models such as population dynamics, methods including vector algebra, differential equations, calculus (including several variables and vector calculus), matrices, methods for three-dimensional problems, and numerical methods. Teaching is supported and enhanced by the use of a computer algebra package.
What you will study
This module 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.
You’ll begin the mechanics part of the module with statics, where there are forces but no motion, and then you’ll be introduced to the fundamental laws governing the motions of bodies acted on by forces – Newton&/courses/qualifications/details/mst210/39;s laws of motion. These are applied to model:
- the motion of a particle moving in a straight line under the influence of known forces
- undamped oscillations
- the motion of a particle in space
- the motions of systems of particles
- the damped and forced vibrations of a single particle
- the motion (and vibrations) of several particles.
In the methods part of the module you’ll cover both analytic and numerical methods. You’ll explore the analytical (as opposed to numerical) solution of first-order and of linear, constant-coefficient, second-order ordinary differential equations, followed by systems of linear and non-linear differential equations and an introduction to methods for solving partial differential equations. The topics in algebra are vector algebra, the theory of matrices and determinants, and eigenvalues and eigenvectors. You’ll develop the elements of the calculus of functions of several variables, including vector calculus and multiple integrals, and make a start on the study of Fourier analysis. Finally, the study of numerical techniques covers the solution of systems of linear algebraic equations, methods for finding eigenvalues and eigenvectors of matrices, and methods for approximating the solution of differential equations.
You can find the full content list on the .
You will learn
Successful study of this module should improve your skills in being able to think logically, express ideas and problems in mathematical language, communicate mathematical arguments clearly, interpret mathematical results in real-world terms and find solutions to problems.
Professional recognition
This module may help you to gain membership of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA). For further information, see the .
Entry requirements
You must have passed the following module:
Or be able to provide evidence you have the required mathematical skills.
You can .
if you’re not sure you’re ready.
Preparatory work
You should aim to be confident and fluent with the concepts covered in the , and follow the advice in the quiz.
The key topics to revise include:
- algebra
- geometry
- trigonometry
- calculus
- mechanics.
Essential mathematics 2 (MST125) is ideal preparation.
What's included
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
- a week-by-week study planner
- course-specific module materials
- audio and video content
- assessment details, instructions and guidance
- online tutorial access.
You’ll also be provided with six printed books and a printed module handbook.
You will need
A calculator – you may wish to use this during the module, but you are not allowed to take a calculator into the examination.
Computing requirements
You’ll need broadband internet access and a desktop or laptop computer with an up-to-date version of Windows (10 or 11) or macOS Ventura or higher.
Any additional software will be provided or is generally freely available.
To join in spoken conversations in tutorials, we recommend a wired headset (headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone).
Our module websites comply with web standards, and any modern browser is suitable for most activities.
Our OU Study mobile app will operate on all current, supported versions of Android and iOS. It’s not available on Kindle.
It’s also possible to access some module materials on a mobile phone, tablet device or Chromebook. However, as you may be asked to install additional software or use certain applications, you’ll also require a desktop or laptop, as described above.