Math 371, Q1

Mathematical Modelling in the Life Sciences

Winter Term, January to April, 2009

Course Outline


Calendar description:

*3 (fi 6) (second term, 3-0-0). Model development, computation, and analysis for problems in the life sciences. Models include differential equations and stochastic formulations. Model evaluation and prediction. Applications are chosen from epidemiology, ecology, population biology, physiology and medicine.


Syllabus
Assignments
Matlab Course
 

Prerequisites: Ordinary Differential Equations (Math 201 or Math 334), Linear Algebra (Math 102, Math 120 or Math 125). No previous computing experience is needed.

Bear Tracks Class Number: 79412   

Details:

Time: TR 9:30-10:50
Location: DP 2023 (occasionally the computer lab in CAB 341 will be used during class time).
Instructor: Dr. Mark A. Lewis, 545B CAB,
Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, University of Alberta.
Phone 492-0197
Email: mlewis@ualberta.ca
Office hours: TR 1100-1200, or by appointment.

Required Textbook:

G. de Vries, T. Hillen, M. Lewis, J. Mueller, B. Schoenfisch, A Course in Mathematical Biology,  SIAM Publishing, Philadelphia, 2006.

Grading Scheme:

Assignments: 30%: There will be nine assignments, each of equal weight. Each assignment will contain problems that need to be done on paper and problems that need to be done on a computer
Midterm Exams (40%):  February 12, 2009 and April 2, 2009. These are in-class exams, each of equal weight.
Final Exam (30%): Consists of a written report on a term project and a 15-minute oral presentation at the time of the final exam (time and location TBA).

The final percentage will be assigned and translated to a letter grade based on a combination of absolute achievement and relative performance in the class. Grading is done according to the University of Alberta Marking and Grading Guidelines, which can be found at www.registrar.ualberta.ca/calendar/Regulations-and-Information/Academic-Regulation/23.4.html#23.4

Missed Term Examinations:
A student who cannot write the quiz or the midterm examination because of an incapacitating illness, severe domestic affliction or other compelling reasons can apply for deferral of the weight of the missed quiz or examination to the final examination. Applications for deferral of term work worth less than or equal to 20% of the final grade must be made in writing to the instructor, with supporting documentation, within 48 hours of the missed quiz or examination date. Applications for a deferral of term work greater than 20% of the final grade must be made to the instructor within 48 hours of the missed quiz or examination and must be supported by a completed University of Alberta Medical Statement Form or other appropriate documentation (Calendar section 23.5.6). Deferral of term work is a privilege and not a right; there is no guarantee that a deferral will be granted. Misrepresentation of facts to gain a deferral is a serious breach of the Code of Student Behaviour. Deferred Final Examination: A student who cannot write the final examination because of an incapacitating illness, severe domestic affliction or other compelling reasons can apply for a deferred final examination. Such an application must be made to the student's Faculty Office within 48 hours of the missed examination and must be supported by a completed University of Alberta Medical Statement or other appropriate documentation (Calendar section 23.5.6). Deferred examinations are a privilege and not a right; there is no guarantee that a deferred examination will be granted. Misrepresentation of facts to gain a deferral is a serious breach of the Code of Student Behaviour. The deferred final examination for this course will be held on Saturday, May 12 2008, from 9:00 until 12:00, in CAB 243.

Reexamination:
A student who writes the final examination and fails the course may apply for a reexamination. It should be noted that reexaminations are rarely granted in the Faculty of Science. These exams are governed by University (Calendar section 23.5.5) and Faculty of Science Regulations (Calendar Section 182.5.9). Misrepresentation of facts to gain a reexamination is a serious breach of the Code of Student Behaviour.

 Student Responsibilities:
Academic Integrity:
The University of Alberta is committed to the highest standards of academic integrity and honesty. Students are expected to be familiar with these standards regarding academic honesty and to uphold the policies of the University in this respect. Students are particularly urged to familiarize themselves with the provisions of the Code of Student Behavior (online at http://www.ualberta.ca/secretariat/appeals.htm) and avoid any behavior which could potentially result in suspicion of cheating, plagiarism, misrepresentation of facts and/or participation in an offence. Academic dishonesty is a serious offence and can result in suspension or expulsion from the University. All forms of dishonesty are unacceptable at the University. Cheating, plagiarism, and misrepresentation of facts are serious offenses. Anyone who engages in these practices will receive at minimum a grade of zero for the examination or paper in question and no opportunity will be given to replace the grade or redistribute the weights. Any offense will be reported to the Senior Associate Dean of Science, who will determine the disciplinary action to be taken.

Examinations:
You student photo I.D. is required at examinations to verify your identity. Students will not be allowed to begin an examination after it has been in progress for 30 minutes. Students must remain in the examination room for at least 30 minutes from the time the examination commenced. Electronic equipment is not to be brought to the examination. Cell Phones: Cell phones are to be turned oduring lectures, labs, and seminars. Cell phones are not to be brought to examinations.

Students with Disabilities:
Students who require accommodation in this course due to a disability are advised to discuss their needs with Specialized Support and Disability Services (2-800 Student Union Building).

Academic Support Centre:
Students who require additional help in developing strategies for better time management, study skills, or examination skills, should contact the Academic Support Centre (2-703 Student Union Building). Additional tutorial services are available through the Mathematics and Applied Sciences Centre http://www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/MASC/