Mathematics for the natural sciences - programme subject in programmes for Specialization in General Studies (MAT3-01)

Basic skills are integrated into the competence aims for this course in areas where they contribute to the development of and are part of the subject competence. In the Mathematics for the natural sciences programme subject, basic skills are understood as follows:

Being able to express oneself orally and in writing in Mathematics for the natural sciences involves the ability to formulate logical arguments, explain a way of thinking, and articulate findings, concepts and hypotheses, i.e. posing questions, participating in talks and discussions of mathematical situations and problems, and presenting a reasoned argument for one’s own proposed solution.It includes formulating on paper mathematical proofs using correct mathematical notation and relevant logical conclusions. It also means writing mathematical symbols and expressions and setting up or drawing tables, diagrams, graphs and geometrical figures.

Being able to read in Mathematics for the natural sciences involves the ability to extract relevant mathematical information from written text, i.e. understanding mathematical symbols and expressions and logical arguments. It also means understanding and interpreting organized visual information such as tables, diagrams, graphs and geometrical figures.

Numeracy in Mathematics for the natural sciences is the most basic skill in the subject. It means confidence in choice of operation and confidence in applying various arithmetical operations without the use of digital tools. To do arithmetic means learning new operations, such as derivation and integration, i.e. making practical estimates and assessing the reasonableness of a solution.

Being able to use digital tools in Mathematics for the natural sciences involves using digital tools for comprehensive computations and visualisation. This means retrieving, processing and presenting mathematical information in electronic form. It also means evaluating the suitability, possibilities and limitations of the digital tool.