Numerical Methods

Learning Outcomes

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Time management and independent learning.
• Conceptualise the solution of practical engineering problems using systematic steps (i.e., a programmable algorithm).
• Present data and analyse results in a scientific manner.
• Use of MATLAB software for coding.
• Think in a logical and critical manner.

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• The significance of numerical methods in modern day life and technology as well as their applications in solving a wide range of practical engineering problems.
• The theory of most common numerical methods that are used by scientists and engineers.

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Write, compile, execute and test programs using MATLAB to solve a range of problems numerically.
• Apply numerical methods algorithms in practice. This includes methods such as error quantification and mitigation, root finding, regression analysis, numerical differentiation and integration, Fourier transformation, Eigenvalues & Eigenvectors, solving differential equations and linear systems.
• Utilise user manuals and online help pages/tutorials to learn and gain familiarity with commercial software platforms.

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Demonstrate the accuracy of a numerical solution.
• Recognise engineering problems that may be approximated/solved numerically using numerical methods.
• Convert an algorithm into a programming script.

Part 1: Numerical analysis for engineers

Types of errors and propagation of errors; Numerical solution of non-linear equations; Regression analysis/Curve fitting methods; Taylor series and applications; Numerical differentiation & integration (quadrature); Ordinary Differential Equation solvers; Partial differential equations

Part 2: Programming for engineers (MATLAB)

Writing, compiling and executing MATLAB codes to solve a range of practical numerical problems through a mixture of lectures and computer workshops.

Teaching methods include

• Lectures
• Computer workshops

Learning activities include

• Worked examples
• Tutorial problems
• Exercise problems
• Private study

PowerPoint slides, tutorial problems solutions, worked examples, and recorded lectures available from module Blackboard.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.