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  Studiegidsen 2011-2012
Radboud UniversiteitStudiegidsenFaculteit der Sociale Wetenschappen > Research Master Cognitive Neuroscience

Basic math 

Basic Mathematics
(Vakcode)
Course ID
SOW-DGCN12
(Studiepunten)
Credits
3
(Periode)
Scheduled
1st semester, 1 st period
Objectives (Doelstelling)

The data considered in cognitive neuroscience studies are typically of a considerable complexity: multiple time-series of haemodynamic responses recorded in numerous voxels (fMRI, PET) or electrophysiological activity recorded through many electrode channels (EEG) or sensors (MEG). Both the acquisition and analysis of such data rely on sometimes pretty sophisticated quantitative techniques. Also, increasingly, models for the neurocognitive processes underlying these data are specified at a quantitative level.

Consequently, for a basic understanding of data acquisition, analysis and modelling, some minimum amount of mathematical 'literacy' is required. The aim of this course is to provide (or refresh) such a minimal background. Both technical detail and mathematical rigor will be bypassed; instead, focus is on familiarizing the student with the basic mathematical concepts and tools to be encountered in the other courses of the master's programme and possibly to be applied in the second-year research training.

Contents (Inhoud / Omschrijving)

The course will deal with general mathematics starting at --and not going far beyond-- a sound secondary school level. Topics here include: (review of) standard functions (algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric), differentiation and function extrema, partial derivatives and multidimensional function extrema, integration, informal introduction to (first-order, linear) differential equations, informal introduction to the idea of Fourier analysis.

Literature (Literatuur)
  • Calculus for the Life Sciences by Greenwell, Ritchey, & Lial, chapters 1-9; additional selected book-chapters provided through Blackboard.
Teaching methods (Werkvormen)

Discussion of reading assignments and exercises to be prepared at home.

Coördinerend docent
M. Koppen
Examination (Toetsingsvorm)
Open-question exam
Exam information (Toetsinformatie)
2Open-question exam,  Wednesday, November 3, 2010; 10.45-15.30
Enrollment ( Inschrijving college )

via STUDENT PORTAL untill 5 working days before the start of the course

Note this course is for CNS students only. Non-CNS students can contact Yvonne Schouten () or Arno Koning ().
Extra information (Bijzonderheden)
August 31 - October 28, 2010. Tuesday 10.45-12.30 and Thursday 8.45-10.30
Location: will be announced on blackboard