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Teaching introductory programming for mathematics undergraduates online

Teaching and Learning of Mathematical and Statistical Computing Online, Teaching and Learning Mathematics Online (TALMO)/RSS Teaching SIG/RSS Computational Statistics and Machine Learning Section (21/09/2020).

Abstract:
Programming with Mathematical Applications is a second year elective module for BSc Mathematics undergraduates that teaches programming and related skills using Python, VBA, HTML, MathJax and SQL. The usual class experience is student-led, with students working on activities while the lecturer circulates answering questions and offering advice as needed. In 2020/21, this will be taught entirely online. This necessitates a considerable rethink of the approach, since it does not seem optimal to require all students to work at the same time while connected to a Zoom call in case the need arises for support. Instead, the in-class teaching and support arrangements must be replaced by a remote, online format. This talk will outline the module teaching and learning, how this was adapted for lockdown in 2019/20, and discuss plans to deliver the module in 2020/21.