MXB106 Linear Algebra


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Unit Outline: Semester 1 2024, Gardens Point, Internal

Unit code:MXB106
Credit points:12
Equivalent:MAB112, MAB122, MAB132, PVB202
Assumed Knowledge:

Studying Math’s C or have completed one of MXB100, MXB101 or MZB125 is required

Coordinators:Nicholas Buttle | n.buttle@qut.edu.au
Ravindra Pethiyagoda | ravindra.pethiyagoda@qut.edu.au
Robyn Araujo | r.araujo@qut.edu.au
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of the teaching period.

Overview

This is a foundational unit in linear algebra which introduces core algebraic concepts, as well as theoretical and practical tools, that will be of central importance to solving real-world problems in science and engineering by mathematical methods. Linear algebra is fundamental to most branches of mathematics, finding widespread applications in mathematical modelling, statistics, finance, economics, information technology, operations research, and computational mathematics. This unit aims to cultivate a deep understanding of the basic mathematical structures of linear algebra, including vector spaces and linear combinations, matrix transformations, invariant subspaces and eigenvalue problems. These theoretical concepts and their applications will be pursued further in MXB201 Advanced Linear Algebra.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

  1. Interpret statements and concepts in linear algebra, both geometrically and algebraically.
  2. Recognise, construct and solve mathematical problems using the techniques of linear algebra.
  3. Critically select and apply appropriate tools of linear algebra to analyse and solve real world problems.
  4. Competently communicate mathematical arguments and results in written form.

Content

Vectors, algebra of vectors, geometric interpretation. Linear combinations, span, basis. Linear transformations and matrix representation, examples such as rotations, reflections and shears, composition of transformations. Determinants and inverse matrices. Linear systems, substitution, elimination. Rank, space, range, consistency. Underdetermined and overdetermined systems, general solutions of linear systems. Dot and cross products of vectors, angles and orthogonality. Change of basis, orthogonal and orthonormal bases. Eigenvalues, eigenvectors, diagonalisation, application to systems of linear, first-order ordinary differential equations.

Learning Approaches

As a first year unit your learning in this unit will be carefully scaffolded to support you to develop a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts relating to Linear Algebra.

In this unit, you will learn by engaging in the following:

  • Weekly face to face lectures
  • Online video resources
  • Weekly workshops

This unit blends weekly face-to-face lectures and workshops with online videos. Theory and concepts will be presented in lectures and you will be exposed to the process required to solve problems. Supplementary videos will focus on the geometric intuitions of linear algebra, helping you to solidify the links between algebraic and geometric interpretations. In workshops you will capitalise on this enhanced learning by solving problems which will strengthen this deeper understanding.
The material presented will be context-based utilising examples from a range of real-world applications and purely mathematical scenarios. The emphasis will be on learning by doing, learning in groups and as individuals, written and oral communication, and developing skills and attitudes to promote life-long learning.

You can expect to spend between 10 - 15 hours per week on average involved in preparing for and attending all scheduled classes, completing assessment tasks, and undertaking your own independent study to consolidate your learning.

 

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

Formative feedback will be provided for the in-semester assessment items by way of written comments on the assessment items, student perusal of the marked assessment piece and informal interview as required.

Summative feedback will be provided throughout the semester with progressive posting of results via Canvas.

Assessment

Overview

The assessment items in this unit are designed to determine your level of competency in meeting the unit outcomes while providing you with a range of tasks with varying levels of skill development and difficulty.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Workbook

You will be required to solve specific problem sets assigned to you, and submit these for assessment and feedback throughout the semester. Feedback provided will assist you by providing guidance for your ongoing learning.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Weight: 30
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): Throughout Semester
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4
Related Standards: EASTG1CMP: 1, 1.2, 3, 3.2

Assessment: Project (applied)

The project will give you the opportunity to apply the techniques of linear algebra to solve a real-world problem, and to communicate your findings in writing.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Weight: 30
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): Week 12
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4
Related Standards: EASTG1CMP: 1, 1.2, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 3, 3.2, 3.6

Assessment: Examination (invigilated)

You will be required to complete this assessment where you will demonstrate your skills, techniques and problem solving abilities. This assessment may include short and long answer type questions.

The examination will require attendance at a local testing centre. For students enrolled as internal or on-campus, the local testing centre will be on QUT campus. For students enrolled as online, QUT Examinations will provide local testing centre information.

Weight: 40
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): Central Examination Period
Exam Period
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4
Related Standards: EASTG1CMP: 1, 1.2, 2, 2.2, 3, 3.2

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to engage in learning and assessment at QUT with honesty, transparency and fairness. Maintaining academic integrity means upholding these principles and demonstrating valuable professional capabilities based on ethical foundations.

Failure to maintain academic integrity can take many forms. It includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, and submitting an assessment item completed by another person (e.g. contract cheating). It can also include providing your assessment to another entity, such as to a person or website.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Further details of QUT’s approach to academic integrity are outlined in the Academic integrity policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Breaching QUT’s Academic integrity policy is regarded as student misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Requirements to Study

Requirements

Nil

Costs

There are no out of the ordinary costs associated with the study of this unit.

Resources

All learning materials to support your learning in this unit are available in your Canvas unit site. We do have a recommended textbook for this unit, the details of which are listed below. 
There are many reference texts for this unit, many of which can be located in the library and many online resources such as lecture notes and some e-books that can be found online.

Resource Materials

Recommended text(s)

Anton H. and Rorres C. Elementary Linear Algebra: Applications Version, Wiley

Risk Assessment Statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit, as all classes will be held in ordinary lecture theatres. Emergency exits and assembly areas will be pointed out in the first few lectures. You are referred to the University policy on health and safety.
http://www.mopp.qut.edu.au/A/A_09_01.jsp

Standards/Competencies

This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.

Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competency Standard for Professional Engineer

1: Knowledge and Skill Base


  1. Relates to: Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)

2: Engineering Application Ability


  1. Relates to: Project (applied)

  2. Relates to: Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)

3: Professional and Personal Attributes


  1. Relates to: Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)

  2. Relates to: Project (applied)

Course Learning Outcomes

This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.

ST01 Bachelor of Science

  1. Develop a broad, multidisciplinary understanding of science and a specialised, in-depth knowledge of at least one discipline.
    Relates to: ULO1, Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)
  2. Use higher order thinking skills to design, plan, and conduct investigations and evaluate data to address scientific questions and challenges.
    Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)
  3. Develop and demonstrate key competencies in scientific practices and relevant technologies.
    Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)
  4. Communicate scientific findings, concepts and evidence-based reasoning to diverse audiences using a variety of methods.
    Relates to: ULO4, Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)

SV02 Bachelor of Science

  1. Develop a broad, multidisciplinary understanding of science and a specialised, in-depth knowledge of at least one discipline.
    Relates to: ULO1, Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)
  2. Use higher order thinking skills to design, plan, and conduct investigations and evaluate data to address scientific questions and challenges.
    Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)
  3. Develop and demonstrate key competencies in scientific practices and relevant technologies.
    Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)
  4. Communicate scientific findings, concepts and evidence-based reasoning to diverse audiences using a variety of methods.
    Relates to: ULO4, Workbook, Project (applied), Examination (invigilated)