Undergraduate Course: Introduction to Mathematics at University (MATH08078)
Course Outline
| School | School of Mathematics |
College | College of Science and Engineering |
| Credit level (Normal year taken) | SCQF Level 8 (Year 1 Undergraduate) |
Availability | Not available to visiting students |
| SCQF Credits | 20 |
ECTS Credits | 10 |
| Summary | In this course, students will begin to develop their skills in thinking and communicating as mathematicians. They will learn to interpret, criticise, and construct mathematical arguments, and to appreciate the importance of rigorous argumentation and proof in mathematics. |
| Course description |
In this course, students will begin to develop their skills in thinking and communicating as mathematicians. They will learn to interpret, criticise, and construct mathematical arguments within topics such as polynomials, functions, real numbers, and inequalities, and communicate their arguments effectively, both via written proof (following disciplinary norms) and dialogue. Students will learn a variety of proof techniques, including mathematical induction and proof by contradiction, and gain an appreciation of the importance of rigorous argumentation and proof in mathematics.
The teaching will be predominantly workshop based, with a focus on interactive, scaffolded group activities. Outside of class, students will be required to engage with preparatory material, reflection, and independent study.
Summary of student experience: This course will help you transition from school-level mathematics to university, laying the foundations for all further study of mathematics. This includes developing skills that enable you to reflect on your work and for independent learning. You will become proficient at working with definitions, theorems, and examples, and able to understand and critique mathematical proofs. You will also be trained in how to construct mathematical arguments and to effectively communicate mathematical ideas.
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Entry Requirements (not applicable to Visiting Students)
| Pre-requisites |
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Co-requisites | Students MUST also take:
Linear Algebra 1 (MATH08079) AND
Introduction to Mathematical Analysis (MATH08081)
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| Prohibited Combinations | |
Other requirements | Students must not have passed any of: MATH08059 Proofs and Problem Solving, MATH08071 Accelerated Proofs and Problem Solving.
Due to limitations on class sizes, students will only be enrolled on this course if it is specifically referenced in their DPT. |
Course Delivery Information
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| Academic year 2025/26, Not available to visiting students (SS1)
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Quota: 0 |
| Course Start |
Semester 1 |
Timetable |
Timetable |
| Learning and Teaching activities (Further Info) |
Total Hours:
200
(
Lecture Hours 3,
Supervised Practical/Workshop/Studio Hours 50,
Summative Assessment Hours 0.5,
Programme Level Learning and Teaching Hours 4,
Directed Learning and Independent Learning Hours
142 )
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| Assessment (Further Info) |
Written Exam
0 %,
Coursework
100 %,
Practical Exam
0 %
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| Additional Information (Assessment) |
Coursework: 100% |
| Feedback |
Not entered |
| No Exam Information |
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Work with definitions, theorems, and examples to explore properties of mathematical objects and their relationships, drawing from topics such as polynominals, functions, real numbers, and inequalities.
- Appraise and comprehend mathematical arguments, including those using proof by contradiction and mathematical induction.
- Solve mathematical problems and construct mathematical arguments.
- Communicate mathematics effectively, with consideration of disciplinary norms, and engage proficiently in mathematical dialogue.
- Develop autonomous learning skills and use reflection to engage in personal development and build self-efficacy.
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Reading List
How to think like a mathematician. A companion to undergraduate mathematics. Kevin Houston. ISBN: 052171978X
How to study for a mathematics degree. Lara Alcock. ISBN: 019163736X
Introduction to proofs and proof strategies. Shay Fuchs. ISBN: 9781009096287 |
Additional Information
| Graduate Attributes and Skills |
Not entered |
| Keywords | Mathematics at University,rigour,proof,communication |
Contacts
| Course organiser | Dr Wei En Tan
Tel: (0131 6)50 5043
Email: w.tan@ed.ac.uk |
Course secretary | Ms Louise Durie
Tel: (0131 6)50 5050
Email: L.Durie@ed.ac.uk |
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