Open University

BSc (Honours) in Mathematics and its Learning

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this degree, you will have knowledge and understanding of

• The basic elements of linear algebra, analysis and group theory; the basic concepts behind, and the application of, mathematical methods for differential equations, vector calculus, multi-variable functions, numerical methods, Newtonian mechanics and mathematical modelling; basic methods for analysing data, probability models and statistical inference
• The mathematical and/or statistical concepts and methods included in the chosen electives.
• The role of mathematical thinking
• Some current issues in mathematics education
• Different theories relating to the teaching and learning of mathematics
• Connections between different mathematical topics between mathematics and other subjects and between mathematics and the world.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this degree, you will have acquired the ability

• In mathematical and statistical manipulation and calculation, using a computer package when appropriate
• To assemble relevant information for proofs and construct appropriate mathematical and statistical arguments, and exercise judgment in the selection and application of a wide range of mathematical and statistical tools and techniques
• To create appropriate mathematical and statistical models and draw justifiable inferences
• To reason with abstract concepts
• To approach mathematical and statistical problems and tasks in a flexible way
• In qualitative and quantitative problem-solving skills.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this degree, you will be able to demonstrate the following skills:

• Apply mathematical and statistical concepts, principles and methods
• Analyse and evaluate problems (both theoretical and practical) and plan strategies for their solutions
• Be an independent learner, able to acquire further knowledge with little guidance or support
• Develop and use mathematical resources effectively with learners
• Recognise opportunities where learners can be encouraged to develop their mathematical thinking.

Key skills

On completion of this degree, you will be able to demonstrate the following key skills:

• Read and/or listen to documents and discussions having mathematical/statistical content, with an appropriate level of understanding
• Communicate information having mathematical or statistical content accurately and effectively, using a format, structure and style that suits the purpose.
• Prepare mathematical or statistical content for a range of purposes, which may include writing for both specialist and non-specialist audiences; writing reports on mathematical or statistical experiments or models; producing and/or delivering a presentation on a mathematical or statistical topic. Preparation of some content may require working collaboratively with others on projects.
• Exhibit a high level of numeracy, appropriate to a graduate of a numerate discipline
• Use information technology with confidence to acquire and present mathematical and statistical knowledge, and to model and solve practical problems
• Articulate personal strengths and weaknesses in the teaching and learning of mathematics.

This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• In Stage 1, you’ll study four 30-credit modules from the default or intensive start.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study one 60-credit module and 60 credits from the mathematics or mathematics with statistics route.
• In Stage 3, you’ll study three 30-credit modules and choose one 30-credit module from your chosen route.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

Default start

You'll study all four of the following:

• Discovering Mathematics (MU123)
• Essential Mathematics 1 (MST124)
• Introducing statistics (M140)
• Essential Mathematics 2 (MST125)

Intensive start

You'll study all three of the following:

• Essential Mathematics 1 (MST124)
• Introducing statistics (M140)
• Essential Mathematics 2 (MST125)

You'll choose one from:

• Stage 1 option modules

Stage 2 (120 credits)

You'll study the following:

• Pure mathematics (M208)

Mathematics

You'll study the following:

• Mathematical methods, models and modelling (MST210)

Mathematics with statistics

You'll study both of the following:

• Analysing data (M248)
• Mathematical methods (MST224)

Stage 3 (120 credits)

You'll study all three of the following:

• Mathematical thinking in schools (ME620)
• Learning and doing algebra (ME322)
• Learning and doing geometry (ME321)

Mathematics

You'll choose one from:

• Applications of probability (M343)
• Complex analysis (M337)
• Computational Applied Mathematics (MST374)
• Deterministic and stochastic dynamics (MS327)
• Graphs, games and designs (MST368)
• Mathematical methods and fluid mechanics (MST326)

Mathematics with statistics

You'll choose one from:

• Applications of probability (M343)
• Applied statistical modelling (M348)
• Complex analysis (M337)
• Computational Applied Mathematics (MST374)
• Deterministic and stochastic dynamics (MS327)
• Graphs, games and designs (MST368)
• Mathematical statistics (M347)

Assessment

Our assessments are all designed to reinforce your learning and help you show your understanding of the topics. The mix of assessment methods will vary between modules.

Computer-Marked Assignments

• Usually, a series of online, multiple-choice questions.

Tutor-Marked Assignments

• You’ll have a number of these throughout each module, each with a submission deadline.
• They can be made up of essays, questions, experiments or something else to test your understanding of what you have learned.
• Your tutor will mark and return them to you with detailed feedback.

End-of-Module Assessments

• The final, marked piece of work on most modules.
• Modules with an end-of-module assessment won’t usually have an exam.

Exams

• Some modules end with an exam. You’ll be given time to revise and prepare.
• You’ll be given your exam date at least 5 months in advance.
• Most exams take place remotely, and you will complete them at home or at an alternative location.
• If a module requires you to take a face-to-face exam, this will be made clear in the module description, and you will be required to take your exam in person at one of our exam centres.

Skills for career development

This degree provides good preparation and professional development for those interested in a career in mathematics education, or for jobs that require mathematical communication skills. It provides the skills of doing, communicating and analysing mathematical activity that are needed to prepare you for teacher training in primary or secondary mathematics.

This degree will also equip you with the mathematical skills and knowledge required for a range of jobs in government, business, accountancy, banking, management and administration, and the voluntary sector. It is widely accepted that a degree in mathematical subjects particularly enhances the following transferable and much sought-after skills, applicable to a wide range of jobs across all sectors:

• Communicating mathematical ideas clearly and succinctly
• Explaining mathematical ideas to others
• Understanding complex mathematical texts
• Working with abstract concepts
• Thinking logically
• Expressing problems in mathematical language
• Constructing logical arguments
• Working on open-ended problems
• Finding solutions to problems
• Interpreting mathematical results in real-world terms
• Analysing/interpreting data
• Using professional and relevant software.

Career relevance

Mathematics graduates are employed in all areas of the public and private sectors, business and commerce, large and small firms, and in positions of responsibility that lead to management.

If you’re thinking about a career in mathematics education, such as teaching or tutoring, or you already work in education and want to improve or update your skills, this degree course is an excellent choice. Mathematical skills and knowledge are also sought after in fields such as finance, accountancy, engineering, science, defence, the pharmaceuticals industry and business. Other career areas directly related to mathematics include:

• Banking
• Bioinformatics
• Economics
• Financial services
• Insurance
• Investments
• Market research
• Quantitative analysis/risk analysis
• Retail
• Stockbroking/trading.

With our unique approach to distance learning, you can study from home, work or on the move.

You’ll have some assessment deadlines to meet, but otherwise, you’ll be free to study at the times that suit you, fitting your learning around work, family, and social life.

For each of your modules, you’ll use either just online resources or a mix of online and printed materials.

Each module you study will have a module website with

• A week-by-week study planner, giving you a step-by-step guide through your studies
• Course materials such as reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
• Module forums for discussions and collaborative activities with other students
• Details of each assignment and their due dates
• A tutorial booking system, online tutorial rooms, and your tutor’s contact details
• Online versions of some printed module materials and resources.