Mathematics is an essential part of engineering courses and forms the basis for most subjects found in the degree programme (such as technical mechanics or electrical engineering). The preliminary maths course prepares students for the mathematics used in their studies.
Contents and goals of the pre-course in mathematics
Contents
- Basics (e.g. fractions, power laws)
- Functions and their properties
- Function types: linear, quadratic, polynomial, trigonometric, exponential, logarithmic
- Differentiation (with introduction in sequences and series)
- Integration (including partial integration, substitution)
- Introduction to linear algebra (matrices, determinants, linear systems of equations)
Goals
- Addressing the mathematical deficits known from research in the transition from school to university, especially in secondary level 1 topics that are not dealt with as such in the basic courses
- Getting used to the university process by dividing it into lectures and exercises
- Development of learning strategies
- Getting to know your future fellow students
- First contact with students from higher semesters in the four study programmes mentioned (e.g. in the study information working group or as a tutor in the exercise groups)
Schedule and venues
The pre-course in maths usually takes place in the two weeks before lectures begin. If you are unable to attend the first dates, you can join the preliminary maths course at any time, even if you missed the first lecture. The duration of the course is two weeks.
Timetable
Further support services
In your studies, you are responsible for organising what you learn, when and how. This can be a challenge at the beginning due to the amount of content and short exam periods. In addition to the contact persons of the AG-Studieninformation, to whom you can ask all your questions during the breaks at the preliminary mathematics course, the Centre for Quality Enhancement in Teaching and Learning (ZQS) will also be happy to help you at this point.
