Industry-based Practicum : Mathematics

The Department of Mathematics is one of many departments at the University which offers an industry-based practicum, also known as “Practicum 3B”. This course exposes students to the various avenues this dynamic subject of Mathematics can take them. This may be seen in different Industries (both locally and internationally). The far-reaching use and impact of Mathematics are evident in all cultures. Students are therefore engaged in seeing examples of the offerings of this dynamic subject through authentic tasks. The applicability of Mathematics in Business, Science and Arts is examined. Students get a chance to engage in ‘making meaning ’and making sense of the Mathematics in the world we live in.

Industry-based Practicum in this Department is an essential component of students’ appreciation of Mathematics. It provides the vital underpinning of the knowledge of the economy. It is essential in the physical sciences, technology, business, financial services and many areas of ICT. It is also of growing importance in biology, medicine and many of the social sciences. Mathematics forms the basis of most scientific and industrial research and development. Increasingly, many complex systems and structures in the modern world can only be understood using mathematics and much of the design and control of high-technology systems depends on mathematical inputs and outputs. 

The Department of Mathematics employs industrial research as a backbone to the body of this course. This is a planned research or critical investigation aimed at the acquisition of new knowledge and skills for developing new products, processes or services or for bringing about a significant improvement in existing products, processes or services. During the industry-based practicum, students analyze and report on a chosen area of industrial research with an emphasis on the application of mathematics in the research. Other assignments include an individual presentation, a paired-math project presentation, a math modelling assignment and a group final fieldwork project. In addition to the Fieldwork Portfolio, students are also graded for their individual participation on various dates in industry-based related tasks. 

There are 45 contact hours and no prerequisite for this course. However, there are 7 Criteria for Math students for Practicum 3B. These include: 

1. Creation of a questionnaire for an interview with business personnel
2. Vetting of Questionnaires by lecturer before being used in the field.
3. Conducting an initial meeting via any online platform or  face to face
4. Having 10 to 15 hours at the site for Practicum 3B fieldwork
5. Having Photographs, Observation checklist, and signed authentication documents
6. Spending 3 to 5 days at a business place to view business in operation
7. Comparing the business with that of a micro business like a ‘corner shop’

There are 3 credits awarded by the University through the Department of Mathematics. These credits are granted to students who successfully complete this phase. For further information, please consult the Department’s industry-based practicum manual or reach out to the Head of Department or the University’s Practicum Unit.