What's included
Books, DVD, and a dedicated website containing online activities and resources.
You will need
A scientific calculator. We recommend any Casio scientific calculator with 'natural display', as these enable you to key in calculations in the same order as they usually appear in written text, and have a two-line display so that you can see both your calculation and the answer. Some instructions for using the Casio fx-83ES, and compatible models, are provided in the study materials. Any other scientific calculator is also acceptable provided that you know how to use it before the module starts, and you have access to the appropriate calculator manual (these are often available to download from the manufacturer’s website). Please note that you do not need to have a graphics or programmable calculator to study this module.
(If you have studied Science, technology and maths Access module (Y033), you can use the calculator from that module providing you have access to the manual.)
You will require access to the internet at least once a week to download resources and assignments, keep up to date with news and to access the interactive computer-marked assignments (iCMAs).
A headset with a microphone and earphones is recommended in order to participate fully in online tutorials.
Computing requirements
A computing device with a browser and broadband internet access is required for this module. Any modern browser will be suitable for most computer activities. Functionality may be limited on mobile devices.
Any additional software will be provided, or is generally freely available. However, some activities may have more specific requirements. For this reason, you will need to be able to install and run additional software on a device that meets the requirements below.
A desktop or laptop computer with either:
- Windows 7 or higher
- macOS 10.7 or higher
The screen of the device must have a resolution of at least 1024 pixels horizontally and 768 pixels vertically.
To participate in our online-discussion area you will need both a microphone and speakers/headphones.
Our Skills for OU study website has further information including computing skills for study, computer security, acquiring a computer and Microsoft software offers for students.
If you have a disability
By its nature mathematics is a visual subject, and this module contains considerable amounts of mathematical notation and graphs, and other forms of diagram. If you have a visual impairment or limited manual dexterity you may experience difficulties with some of the activities and assessment questions which involve the interactive use of ICT or which have a high graphical content.
It is important to note that use of the online activities and resources, which include on-screen dynamically-changing graphs and mathematical notation, will be an integral part of your study. You will need to spend considerable amounts of time using a personal computer, and some of your assignments will be interactive and online.
Written transcripts of any audio and video components and Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) versions of printed material are available. Some Adobe PDF components may not be available or fully accessible using a screen reader and mathematical materials may be particularly difficult to read in this way. Other alternative formats of the study materials may be available in the future.
If you have particular study requirements please tell us as soon as possible, as some of our support services may take several weeks to arrange. Find out more about our services for disabled students.