PH0S048 - Scientific Data Literacy 01 Aug 2023 - 31 Jul 2029 | Version 3

Associated Module Information

Module Code: PH0S048
Module Title: Scientific Data Literacy
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Chemical and Environmental Sciences
Faculty Sub Group: Chemical and Environmental Sciences
Module Leader: Natasha Galea
Module Team: Peter Miedziak, Suzanna Kean, Rehana Karim, Hannah Seale, Rhian Newman, James Cruwys
First Intended Intake: SEP 2018 Final Year of Intake: 2028
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 3
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100403 - mathematics
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 3
Valid From 01 Aug 2023
Valid To 31 Jul 2029

Module Aims

1. The understanding and application of simple mathematical functions and tools, in order to recognise the significance of and manipulate scientific data, and to appreciate the role of mathematics within the sciences.
2. To utilise simple mathematical functions to manipulate date within appropriate digitally based mathematical tools.

Content Summary

This module is designed to develop and support the student’s application of numerical literacy and data handling in the broad context of science, via accessible examples and simple terms.

Introduction to quantitative science, units and measurements.
Basic arithmetic, BODMAS.
Decimals and scientific notation. Significant figures and decimal places. Approximation, orders of magnitude.
Indices, logarithms, and exponentials.
Fractions, percentages, ratios.
Algebra, working with and simplifying algebraic expressions.
Lengths / areas / volumes / angles, appropriate units and conversions of common shapes.
Linear equations, and associated graphs.
Trigonometry and triangles.
Application of Microsoft EXCEL as a scientist’s tool for presenting and manipulating data.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 2
Practical classes and workshops 26
Independent Study 50
Directed Study 102
Formative Assessment - Scheduled 4
Problem / challenge based learning 16
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Acquire and apply a range of basic numerical skills and interpret results of applications appropriately
LO2 To understand the basic mathematics underpinning applications in science and to be able to choose and perform numerical techniques as appropriate

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Synchronous Online Assessment Time-constrained assessment (Online) 1 90 N/A 60 No 40
Asynchronous Assessment Portfolio 1 Guided assessments demonstrating appropriate use of taught theory and skills within Microsoft Excel: * Excel Exercise 1 * Excel Exercise 2 * Excel Exercise 3 * Excel Exercise 4/5. 0 2000 40 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Time-constrained assessment (Online) 1
Portfolio 1

Reading List

Foundation Maths, Anthony Croft and Robert Davison, Pearson, 2020.