Preparatory MathematicsLaajuus (3 cr)

Objective

During this course you rehearse and reinforce mathematical knowledge and skills needed in the beginning of your studies.

EUR-ACE: Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the mathematics and other natural sciences underlying their engineering specialization, at a level necessary to achieve the other programme outcomes.

Learning outcomes
After completing this course you recall basic algebraic operations and rules for numbers and symbols, and formulas related to common geometric shapes. You understand the difference between an expression and an equation. You are able to apply what you have learned to solve simple problems related to your own field of study.

Content

By completing this course, you will have strengthened and supplemented your mathematical skills, which are essential for the initial stage of your studies in engineering. You will learn basic arithmetic operations and rules with numbers and symbols, as well as the most common calculation formulas related to geometric figures. You will understand the difference between an expression and an equation and be able to apply what you learn to solve simple problems in your field of study. This course will provide you with a solid foundation for further study and help you succeed in your technical studies.

Basic algebraic operations, the notion of square root, rules for exponents, simplification of polynomial expressions and simple rational expressions, simple linear and quadratic polynomial equations, percentages, simple geometry and trigonometry for right-angled triangles, basics of functions, verbal problem solving tasks.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

You are able to simplify simple polynomial and rational expressions and evaluate expressions numerically. You recognize the difference between an expression and an equation. You can explain how simplifying an expression differs from the process of solving an equation. You are able to solve simple linear and quadratic polynomial equations. You can solve the edges and angles of right-angled triangles. You can solve simple problems with equations. You know the notation for functions, are able to read the values of a function from a graph, and compute values of a given function using the functions expression. You recognize the equation of a line, are able to draw the line by using it, and determine the equation of a line from a picture.

Further information

The course is to be taken before compulsory mathematical studies in technology. The course also offers good mathematical readiness for studies in other fields than technology.The course is offered also for path studies and open studies.