Centre for Science and Mathematics
The Centre for Science and Mathematics (CSM) aims to provide all students at Republic Polytechnic with a firm foundation in the basics of scientific knowledge and mathematical reasoning ability. These abilities are not only fundamental to all disciplines offered at RP, but are also an essential part of a well-rounded education.
CSM works to provide a conducive and stimulating hands-on learning environment for students to explore, apply and understand the relevant concepts.
The first-year curriculum for all RP students consists of a common core of five interrelated strands, each of which comprises two modules – one in the first semester, continued by another in the second semester. Of the five strands, two are offered by the Centre for Science and Mathematics:
- Basic Sciences I & II
- Computing and Mathematical Methods I & II
CSM also provides two modules in mathematics which will build on the logical and mathematical reasoning skills that students gain from Computing and Mathematical Methods I & II and provide a foundation for further studies:
- Advanced Mathematics I – Differential Equations
- Advanced Mathematics II – Linear Algebra
A101 Basic Sciences I
A102 Basic Sciences II
The Basic Sciences modules will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of scientific principles and applications. Students will make use of scientific principles to explain various phenomena observed in real life through logical reasoning. In these modules, a wide range of topics from energy to electricity; atomic structure to the structure of organic compounds; cells to recombinant DNA technology and Newtonian mechanics to special relativity will be covered.
A111 Computing and Mathematical Methods I
A112 Computing and Mathematical Methods II
The Computing and Mathematical Methods modules will train the mind in the methods of logical and mathematical reasoning. The topics in these modules include concepts such as functions, linear equations, quadratic equations, probability and statistics. Computing problems and methods are often used as a valuable learning aid and a source of example and practical applications. Students will also learn computing concepts such as data types, programme control basics, sorting and searching and programming in an object-oriented environment. The emphasis is on understanding key concepts and acquiring the skill to apply them. These concepts and skills are relevant not only in mathematics, the sciences, computing and technology, but also for a wide range of tasks in life where logical thinking and reasoning are required.
A211 Advanced Mathematics I – Differential Equations A212 Advanced Mathematics II – Linear Algebra
These modules are designed to equip students with the mathematical skills required to solve a range of common real-world problems. Building on the skills developed in the first-year modules A111 and A112, this module allows students to apply mathematics to real life situations by modelling them appropriately as mathematical problems. Analytical and problem solving skills will be developed. Students will also be introduced to the mathematical symbols and notations that are commonly used. The main topics covered include the basics of differentiation, integration, differential equations, numerical methods, complex numbers, polar co-ordinates, systems of linear equations, matrices, vector spaces, vectors, and linear transformations.
CSM’s modules, like all modules at Republic Polytechnic, are based on the belief that we ‘learn by engagement with an activity’. Our approach to learning is markedly different from the more common scheme consisting of lectures, tutorials, homework and examinations. At RP, classes of no more than 25 students collaborate in teams using information technology to solve ‘real life’ problems. This One-Day, One-Problem™ setting allows students an extended period of time to work in depth on the issue at hand.
The focus is on students’ understanding and their ability to reason. Facilitators engage students throughout the day by questioning, assessing and challenging students’ thinking. Students are encouraged to approach the problem with whatever prior knowledge they have, and make progress through discussion and mutual learning within the team. In this way they are able to integrate knowledge in a personal way and to discern the context and relevance of what they learn.
Critical thinking is central to the student’s learning in science and mathematics. The emphasis is not merely on arriving at the ‘correct’ answers, but rather on a deeper understanding of the concepts involved. Students are encouraged to explore and investigate ideas by undertaking a variety of tasks, and present their findings and conclusions to the class.
Our academic staff are passionate about science and mathematics, and seek to share that passion with our students. Every member undergoes specific training programmes to develop and hone their skills in various aspects of education. Staff attend seminars and workshops to foster a spirit of vibrancy and to stimulate a fruitful exchange of ideas.
CSM is prepared to work with secondary schools in various programmes for mutual benefit. While RP’s main focus is on post-secondary education, there are opportunities for joint projects which will allow ideas to be exchanged and developed. To this end, CSM is embarking on a number of special educational projects with selected secondary schools that embrace similar objectives. These are aimed at exposing students to RP’s style of education and at sharing our experiences with secondary schools.
CSM seeks to participate in research activities on science and mathematics education, including collaborative projects with like-minded organisations. The unique learning environment and educational approach provided by RP allows it to develop and implement a wide range of pedagogical methods based on a constructivist philosophy, and to continually improve them for the benefit of the students. CSM takes seriously its responsibility to the academic community to undertake appropriate research activities and to participate in relevant forums for fruitful academic discourse.
“To prepare today’s students for the future, it is no longer sufficient to train them to pass exams. Students must develop logical reasoning skills and the ability to figure out for themselves how things work. Topics in science and mathematics provide a natural and wonderful way to equip students with the necessary skills in critical thinking and understanding.”
– Dr Albert Miao, Director, Centre for Science and Mathematics.
Director:
Dr Albert Miao
Staff Strength:
Read our staff profiles here
Modules currently offered:
A101 Basic Sciences I
A102 Basic Sciences II
A111 Computing & Mathematical Methods I
A112 Computing & Mathematical Methods II
A211 Advanced Mathematics I – Differential Equations
A212 Advanced Mathematics II - Linear Alegbra
Enquires:
Joan Lim
joan_lim@rp.sg
Tel: 6510 3274
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