Chapter 6 Technology

Finding Information on the internet

Perhaps the easiest way to find information quickly is to use the internet. Vast amounts of material are at your fingertips but be careful to fact check as you can’t believe everything you read online. Remember, it has little or no in-built quality control. If in doubt, seek advice from your tutor. One way of making sure you get to good information is to use a well established site or to check the information on several sites.

Here are a few select examples (there are many more):

https://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/

http://www.statstutor.ac.uk/

https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/mlsc/student-resources/helm-workbooks/

https://www.khanacademy.org/math

Learning with Computer Packages

Computers can help you learn Mathematics. Most computer laboratories have an extensive library of software available and most universities have software available to download for student-use on your personal device; your information/computer services department will have a list of what is available.

There are numerous computer packages that are available; some you may need for a specific course and others which are generally useful tools. If a package is required for a course, your lecturer will make you aware of this and it will be available either opensource or through your institute’s computer services.

Lengthy calculations can be eased by using Computer Algebra Systems; many of which can be used in an online format without download. You can combine algebra and graphs on the same screen to reinforce your understanding. They can also be useful in checking your answers to more routine calculations and procedures. However, be careful not to use these computer tools mindlessly. Make sure you understand the significance and validity of any solution you obtain. The computer is not a magic box!

Examples with main uses are

  • MAPLE Maths software, useful for many area of mathematics and statistics. Only needs simple computer syntax to enter expressions to get started.

  • MATHEMATICA Similar to MAPLE. Extremely powerful but considerably harder to learn.

  • Python Versatile, Opensource software with libraries for most mathematics and statistics applications. Requires syntax and knowledge of coding, however it is a good starting point for learning to code.

  • MATLAB Relatively easy to learn, used extensively in engineering mathematics. Can do symbolic computations as well as implement code written in Matlab syntax.

  • R Is an opensource software aimed at statistics and data analysis.

  • MINITAB, SPSS, SAS These are general purpose statistical packages for the analysis of data. Powerful and easy to learn.

  • Wolfram-Alpha This online computer algebra system is very powerful and excellent for checking long calculations.

The use of AI via interfaces such as ChatGTP should be used with caution. Your institute will have a policy regarding its use and you should ensure you are aware of it. While this can be an excellent starting point, you should fact check any solution/answer given as a slight inaccuracy or ambiguity in your phrasing of the problem can lead to vastly different answers; all while sounding very convincing!

Keep in Touch

Your lecturers like to hear from you so don’t be afraid to go to them with questions. Use email to make an appointment.

Equipment

The only essential piece of equipment for a mathematics based degree is a scientific calculator. Most universities have rules about the type/capabilities of the calculator you use in an exam - check that your calculator meets the requirements.

It is useful (though not a requirement) to have a laptop, tablet or surface since most notes and resources are made available online. These can be accessed via a mobile phone but it is advantageous to see the notes on a bigger screen.

There are computers and printers available in labs around the university which can be used by students; they have most required software installed and you will have a print quota.

Summary

  • You will need a calculator, make sure it complies with university guidelines so that it is allowed in exams.
  • Many maths/stats courses make use of software packages, not only is this necessary for some topics, it is an excellent transferrable skill if you learn to use them.
  • Any required software packages will be available on university managed PCs and will often be available free, or at a significant discount via your computer services department.