LITERATURE REVIEW II - 2025/6

Module Overview

Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, the student will investigate a mathematical topic of interest to them in some depth. They will compose a written report on their studies, and give an oral presentation on their work. 

 

Module provider

Mathematics & Physics

Module Leader

SANTITISSADEEKORN Naratip (Maths & Phys)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 6

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Module Availability

Semester 2

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

None 

Module content

The content will vary according to the chosen topic and supervisor but should in all cases consist of a review of some work done in mathematics, statistics or a related discipline at the level of a third year module. The written report is not expected to contain any original material but it should demonstrate that the student has an understanding of the topic and is able to comment critically on the topic or the material reviewed.

 

 

 

Assessment pattern

Alternative Assessment

N/A

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate: 

• The ability to independently research and report upon a mathematical topic relevant to their degree programme.


• The ability to prepare and present mathematical work in both a written and oral fashion.

Thus, the summative assessment for this module consists of:

• A written report, worth 80% of the module mark, corresponding to Learning Outcomes 1 and 2.


• An oral presentation, worth 20% of the module mark, corresponding to Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 3. 

Formative assessment
Students prepare a draft report, which their supervisor then reviews.

Feedback
Students receive continuous feedback through weekly meetings with their supervisor during the period of their Literature Review.

Module aims

• This module allows the student to demonstrate that, under supervision of a member of staff, they are able to review and understand material from different sources (e.g. books and academic journals) and produce a coherent written report in their own words on their chosen topic, which should relate in some way to their degree programme.

Learning outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to: 

Provide a supportive environment in which the student can develop their skills for independent mathematical work, their ability to research a topic independently, and their presentational skills (both written and oral).

The learning and teaching methods include:

Teaching is by discussion, directed reading and interaction between the student and supervisor, and by discussion with the examiners at the presentation. Learning takes place through discussion, background reading and private study. There will be weekly meetings between student and supervisor, at which the student will be given advice, direction and feedback.

 

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: MAT3036

Other information

The School of Mathematics and Physics is committed to developing graduates with strengths in Digital Capabilities, Employability, Global and Cultural Capabilities, Resourcefulness and Resilience and Sustainability. This module is designed to allow students to develop knowledge, skills, and capabilities in the following areas:

Digital Capabilities: Students produce the report using LaTeX or Microsoft Word. The experience of assembling a substantial document with appropriate referencing, tables and graphs enhances their digital proficiency. Digital skills are further developed through preparation of the presentation.

Employability: Undertaking a literature review enables students to develop critical employability skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis, and effective communication. These abilities are highly sought after by employers in various industries, making individuals more competitive and adaptable in the job market.

Global and Cultural Capabilities: Engaging in a mathematical literature review can immerse students in researching internationally published works, encouraging the development of cross-cultural and global perspectives. It also encourages diverse viewpoints and problem-solving approaches, preparing students to navigate complex, culturally diverse environments, and contribute to global challenges and opportunities.

Resourcefulness and Resilience: Researching and producing a literature review cultivates resourcefulness by challenging students to find innovative solutions to complex mathematical problems. The independent work involved in researching the selected mathematical topic cultivates self-reliance and the ability to manage one's time and resources effectively. This autonomy further strengthens resilience by teaching students how to navigate complex tasks and take ownership of their literature review.

Sustainability: Researching and producing a mathematical literature review intersects with sustainability by addressing critical environmental and resource challenges. Many topics relate directly to sustainability. For example, mathematical models can be used to optimise processes, such as renewable energy deployment, waste reduction, and efficient supply chains, all of which are key components of sustainability efforts.

Programmes this module appears in

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2025/6 academic year.