Module Code - Title:
CS4131
-
INTRODUCTION TO SCIENTIFIC COMPUTATIONS 3
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
Many students entering UL to study science courses do not have computer science knowledge. The rationale of this module is to introduce all students to the basic concepts of how to represent data and computations relevant to their area of study in modern scientific computing systems. This encompasses both modelling and execution.
Note: This module could be carried out in conjunction and close collaboration with the "Laboratory Calculation" module.
Syllabus:
1. Modelling and representing data and operations on data
2. Introduction to core scientific data types and data manipulation operations
3. Use of appropriate software tools to model and execute scientific computations pertinent to the area of study
4. Solving simple problems - presentation of the design and solution.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module the students will be able to:
1. Apply appropriate software tools to model and execute scientific computations;
2. Use a spreadsheet software package to create spreadsheets which perform basic mathematical and statistical analysis on data;
3. Present their problem-solving process and solutions clearly and effectively;
4. Identify, explain and apply basic programming constructs to the solution of straightforward problems.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
N/A
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module is taught as a combination of lectures and labs where students are introduced to methods and models for problem solving during lectures and the labs will allow students to apply and perfect the practical knowledge generated through lecture-based learning. Students will be evaluated for practical competency by continual assessment of lab-based activities that will cover the various methods and models introduced.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Lin, Johnny Wei-Bing,
Aizenman, Hannah,
Espinel, Erin Manette Cartas,
Gunnerson, Kim Noreen,
Liu, Joanne (Joanne K.), ()
An introduction to Python programming for scientists and engineers
, Cambridge University Press
Verschuuren, G. M. N. ()
Excel for scientists and Engineers
, Holy Macro Books
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BSBICHUFA - BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL SCIENCES
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Module Leader:
Michael.English@ul.ie