• Description

Numerical methods play an important role in modern science. The approximation of the surface of an airplane and the aerodynamic simulation of the behavior of the surrounding air require the use of numerical methods. Many graphics in the world of computer animation are the result of applying these methods in solving a physical model. Interpolation allows fixing the intermediate positions between an initial and a final state of a body, and the movement of its clothing is given as a numerical solution of differential equations. The treatment of the error of the solutions that are generated allows us to differentiate the error of the algorithm, from the error caused by the finite precision of computers. This course introduces the basic numerical methods applied to engineering and science, as well as the analysis of the approach that their solutions imply.

• The subject within the syllabus as a whole

Any subject in the study plan that requires simulation or approximation of mathematical elements may be based on the ideas developed in this subject.

• Professional fields to which it applies

The simulation and numerical approximation required by any research and development activity has its first steps in the methods covered in this subject

• Prior knowledge

Adequate level of English in order to read technical and scientific documentation in this language. Engineering level in mathematics and programming.

• Information prior to enrolment

Prior knowledge: Adequate level of English in order to read technical and scientific documentation in this language. Engineering level in mathematics and programming.

Planned software: matlab, octave o scilab

• Learning objectives and results

- Know the concepts of error, stability and convergence of an algorithm

- Knows how to choose the appropriate algorithm for each situation.

- Knows how to apply the basic numerical techniques that appear in problems

scientific and engineering.

- Knows how to correctly interpret the results obtained with a numerical algorithm.

- Extracts the general meaning of texts that contain non-routine information

within a known scope.

- Use software for online communication: interactive tools (web, moodle,

blogs ..), email, forums, chat, video-conferences, tools

collaborative work

• Content

Computer errors and error propagation

Systems of linear equations

Interpolation by polynomials

Numerical differentiation

Numerical integration

Nonlinear equations

Ordinary differential equations

• Guidelines on assessment at the UOC

Assessment at the UOC is, in general, online, structured around the continuous assessment activities, the final assessment tests and exams, and the programme's final project.

Assessment activities and tests can be written texts and/or video recordings, use random questions, and synchronous or asynchronous oral tests, etc., as decided by each teaching team. The final project marks the end of the learning process and consists of an original and tutored piece of work to demonstrate that students have acquired the competencies worked on during the programme.

To verify students' identity and authorship in the assessment tests, the UOC reserves the right to use identity recognition and plagiarism detection systems. For these purposes, the UOC may make video recordings or use supervision methods or techniques while students carry out any of their academic activities.

The UOC may also require students to use electronic devices (microphones, webcams or other tools) or specific software during assessments. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that these devices work properly.

The assessment process is based on students' individual efforts, and the assumption that the student is the author of the work submitted for academic activities and that this work is original. The UOC's website on academic integrity and plagiarism has more information on this.

Submitting work that is not one's own or not original for assessment tests; copying or plagiarism; impersonation; accepting or obtaining any assignments, whether for compensation or otherwise; collaboration, cover-up or encouragement to copy; and using materials, software or devices not authorized in the course plan or instructions for the activity, including artificial intelligence and machine translation, among others, are examples of misconduct in assessments that may have serious academic and disciplinary consequences.

If students are found to be engaging in any such misconduct, they may receive a Fail (D/0) for the graded activities in the course plan (including final tests) or for the final grade for the course. This could be because they have used unauthorized materials, software or devices (such as artificial intelligence when it is not permitted, social media or internet search engines) during the tests; copied fragments of text from an external source (the internet, notes, books, articles, other students' work or tests, etc.) without the corresponding citation; purchased or sold assignments, or undertaken any other form of misconduct.

Likewise and in accordance with the UOC's academic regulations, misconduct during assessment may also be grounds for disciplinary proceedings and, where appropriate, the corresponding disciplinary measures, as established in the regulations governing the UOC community (Normativa de convivència).

In its assessment process, the UOC reserves the right to:

• Ask students to provide proof of their identity as established in the UOC's academic regulations.
• Ask students to prove the authorship of their work throughout the assessment process, in both continuous and final assessments, through a synchronous oral interview, of which a video recording or any other type of recording established by the UOC may be made. These methods seek to ensure verification of the student's identity, and their knowledge and competencies. If it is not possible to ensure the student's authorship, they may receive a D grade in the case of continuous assessment or a Fail grade in the case of the final assessment.

Artificial intelligence in assessments

The UOC understands the value and potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, but it also understands the risks involved if it is not used ethically, critically and responsibly. So, in each assessment activity, students will be told which AI tools and resources can be used and under what conditions. In turn, students must agree to follow the guidelines set by the UOC when it comes to completing the assessment activities and citing the tools used. Specifically, they must identify any texts or images generated by AI systems and they must not present them as their own work.

In terms of using AI, or not, to complete an activity, the instructions for assessment activities indicate the restrictions on the use of these tools. Bear in mind that using them inappropriately, such as using them in activities where they are not allowed or not citing them in activities where they are, may be considered misconduct. If in doubt, we recommend getting in touch with the course instructor and asking them before you submit your work.

• View the assessment model