Mathematics for the social sciences - programme subject in programmes for Specialization in General Studies (MAT4-01)

Mathematics is a subject that plays a key role in our modern civilization, as a tool to understand and function in society and as bearer of a tradition with roots in many of the world’s ancient cultures. Mathematics is used to research the universe, systematize experiences and describe and understand natural and social relations. The pleasure obtained from working with the subject has in itself been a source of inspiration for mankind’s development of mathematics.

One of the main purposes of the programme subject is to acquire the mathematical competence needed to maintain and develop a hi-tech society. The programme subject gives specialization in mathematics for further education and work within a number of key areas of society. Through exercising mathematical skills, with and without digital aids, a fundamental and necessary competence for further work with mathematics is developed.

The programme subject gives pupils practice in modelling. It shall give them an opportunity to express practical problems and real-life phenomena as mathematical formulae and process these with the help of mathematical methods. These skills shall give the pupils a key to understanding and analyzing important social problems. In this way, mathematics becomes a useful tool for application in economics as well as areas of society such as health, environment and globalization. The programme subject, therefore, encompasses a practical and a cultural perspective.