Numerical Methods and Programming

Mathematics of secondary school.

The adopted methodologies are aligned with the pedagogical model by promoting active, practical and problem-oriented learning. The theoretical introduction of key concepts is complemented by exercise solving, supporting the gradual consolidation of knowledge. Spreadsheet-based tasks allow students to apply numerical methods and develop essential digital skills. Function programming and script development foster computational thinking, autonomy and the ability to implement solutions in real-world contexts. Activities involving local and cloud digital environments reinforce digital literacy practices. Together, these methodologies ensure an integrated learning experience, centred on the student and aligned with the development of technical and transversal competencies.

The course aims to develop fundamental knowledge and skills in linear algebra, numerical analysis and programming, oriented towards solving applied problems in scientific and technological fields. Students should be able to: understand and manipulate matrices, determinants and linear systems; apply numerical methods to find function zeros and perform polynomial interpolation; use spreadsheets to model and analyse data; understand the principles of information systems; develop functions and create scripts to automate processes in digital environments; and work effectively in both local and cloud-based environments. The teaching methodology-combining theoretical exposition, exercise solving, practical work and programming-is fully compatible with these objectives, enabling an integrated development of knowledge, skills and competencies.

1. Linear Algebra:

1.1. Matrices;

1.2. Determinants;

1.3. Linear systems.

2. Numerical Analysis:

2.1. Function zeros;

2.2. Polynomial interpolation.

3. Information Systems:

3.1. Fundamentals of information processing systems.

4. Programming:

4.1. Function programming;

4.2. Script development.

5. Foundations of local and cloud digital environments:

5.1. Basic concepts: local software vs cloud services;

5.2. Institutional accounts, authentication, permissions and sharing;

5.3. File organisation: local folders, cloud storage, synchronisation.

Relevant information 1:

Whenever there are substantiated indications of irregularities or inconsistencies in the resolution of a test/exam or any other assessment component, the instructor responsible may require the student to provide additional clarifications, on a date to be defined, with the purpose of verifying authorship and understanding of the assessed contents. Unjustified failure to attend or inability to provide adequate explanations may result in the application of the regulations in force concerning irregular assessment situations.

Relevant information 2:

During assessment sessions, the use of calculators may be permitted. However, the use of graphing scientific calculators or calculators with communication capabilities between devices is not permitted. Responsibility for ensuring the compliance of the equipment used rests with the student.

Relevant Information on the Use of Artificial Intelligence
(cf. Regulation on the Use of Artificial Intelligence Systems)

During T1, T2 and examination assessment:
Level 0 - Prohibited: the use of any Artificial Intelligence tool or system is strictly prohibited and is considered a violation of academic integrity rules.

During classroom activities:
Upon the lecturer’s explicit instruction, the use of Artificial Intelligence tools or systems may be permitted or required, according to the level of use defined for the activity (Levels 1 to 5).

Continuous assessment

Mandatory:

- to have the minimum number of attendances in the TP classes, as stated in the current Academic Regulations.
- mandatory completion of the assessment components Test 1 and Test 2.

Continuous assessment requires the completion of all assessment components. Failure to attend or withdrawal from any of the tests Test 1 or Test 2 results in exclusion from the continuous assessment regime.

Test T1 (weight of 40%):

Matrices, Determinants and Linear systems: 25%

Spreadsheet in MS Excel: 15%

Test T2 (weight of 50%):

Zeros of functions: 12%

Polynomial interpolation: 12%

Spreadsheet in MS Excel: 15%

Visual Basic for Applications: 11%

Activities in local and/or cloud digital environments (PP): 10%

The final classification (on a scale of 0 to 20) results from the weighted average of the evaluation of the three components mentioned above, 0,40xT1+0,50xT2+0,10xPP, rounded to two decimal places.

The student is approved if the weighted average is equal to or higher than 9,50 points. If the students achieve a weighted average of at least 8,0 points, they may be given the opportunity to answer a question, either orally or in writing, in an attempt to reach the minimum passing grade of 9,5 points.

Assessment by final exam

Assessment with only one written test with a weight of 100%.

The student is approved if the score on the written test is equal to or higher than 9,50 points. If the students achieve a score of at least 8,0 points, they may be given the opportunity to answer a question, either orally or in writing, in an attempt to reach the minimum passing grade of 9,5 points.

NAO