In this semester's UGEB 2460, we will focus on four directions, i.e. Numbers (its origin, development, applications, then and now); Language of Shape (math in nature, symmetry, how math describes shapes in Biology, Arts etc.); Math in Social Sciences (e.g. math of voting systems, recreational math, math in movies); Nature of Math (ancient versus modern understanding of the nature of math, why math is "effective" in modeling some parts of nature?)
The course structure is as follows: each week there will be lectures and some activities. And at the end of the course, we encourage each student to give a three-minute-presentation on math modelled on "Famelab", a science talk competition.
Most assessments will consist of simple thinking problems (can be solved with school math or clever ideas without math) and some simple essays. Emphasis will be on understanding and creativity rather than technicality.
Homework assignments | 20% | |
3 minute presentation of math | 30% | |
Final Exam | 50% |
The Chinese University of Hong Kong places very high importance on honesty in academic work submitted by students, and adopts a policy of zero tolerance on cheating and plagiarism. Any related offence will lead to disciplinary action including termination of studies at the University. Although cases of cheating or plagiarism are rare at the University, everyone should make himself / herself familiar with the content of the following website:
http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/policy/academichonesty/and thereby help avoid any practice that would not be acceptable.