615-160 Tools of Analysis

Students enrolled in the BSc, BASc or a combined BSc course (except for the BSc/BIS) will receive science credit for the completion of this subject.

Nil.

615-145 or 433-171 or equivalent.

Many software applications in everyday use have their foundation in mathematics. For example, security products, supporting digital signatures and facilitating email privacy, rely on number theory and abstract notions of complexity; and spreadsheet applications provide sophisticated facilities for modeling and mathematical optimisation.

The key objectives of the subject are to introduce you to mathematical concepts that provide a base for such software applications, and to convey a sense of excitement about the value of mathematical tools for addressing difficult analytical problems.

The topics have been chosen for their connection to information systems. The major topics are cryptography, covering basic mathematical techniques to ensure secure communication; and linear algebra and linear programming, including techniques for solving many types of decision problems that arise in business settings.

On completion of this subject, students should have extended their ability to comprehend abstract ideas and understand how theoretical concepts can be applied in practical settings to enhance security and privacy; and have refined their analytical skills so as to be able to model and solve different types of elementary decision problems. In addition, students should have enhanced their ability to self direct their learning and to take advantage of complementary forms of learning resources.

Four practical tasks totalling up to three hours during the semester (18%); written project work totalling up to 5 pages due during the semester (7%); a 2-hour written examination in the examination period (75%). Satisfactory completion of both practical work and the examination is necessary to pass the subject.