Maths for foundation level
THE Centre for Foundation in Science Studies (CFSS), Cyberjaya University College of Medical Sciences (CUCMS) offers two mathematics courses as part of the analytical thinking training in the foundation programme.
Mathematics 1 is offered in the second semester and Mathematics 2 in the third semester. Both are core courses in the Foundation in Science for students who want to pursue a degree in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, or any other science-based programmes.
Mathematics 1 provides students the opportunity to develop knowledge and problem solving skills in algebra, trigonometry, counting, and probability theory. The course introduces algebra and trigonometry in terms and fundamental concepts, algorithm, and their applications.
Among other topics covered are: equations and inequalities, functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, sequences and series, basic counting, and introduction to probability.
Mathematics 2 grants students the opportunity to expand knowledge and skills in elementary statistics and calculus. The course introduces statistics and calculus in terms and fundamental concepts, algorithm, and applications. Students cover topics in discrete and continuous probability distributions, correlation and simple regression models, limits and functions, derivatives, application of derivatives, integrations, and applications of integration.
Mathematics is the key to the door of sciences. It is regarded as an important method in acquiring theory and practical knowledge in sciences including medical sciences. Healthcare practitioners attest to the importance of the course especially in the modern technology medicine. Students should be familiar with the structure of mathematical theories and calculus if they intend to be involved in scientific works in medicine. This ensures accuracy in medical practices and minimises error in patient treatment.
Mathematics in CUCMS involves exposing students to related applications such as integration and differentiation in the field of medical sciences. For example, students learn to calculate the efficacy and potency of a drug in the body system or, they determine the blood flow rate in various sizes of blood vessel such as Poiseulle’s law.
In addition, the teaching approach at CUCMS involves rich styles. The method includes conventional lectures, smaller tutorial classes, as well as student-centred teambased learning (SCTL) sessions.
The SCTL approach helps to develop the requisite intellectual for the independent lifelong learning. CFSS has been implementing this new approach of teaching in all of its classes including mathematics.
In SCTL, students are divided into small groups. Each group is given a week to prepare a teaching session of a specific topic. Learning objectives are uploaded earlier in students’ portal as guidelines.
They find further information and textbooks, reference books, or any other sources.
They may even consult lectures. Every week, students deliver the findings and discussions in class using various media. The students used mahjong papers, slides, white board, and sketches in their presentations. Students are assessed in teamwork spirit, management, creativity skills, ability to respond to queries, and achievement of learning objectives.
The final grades in Mathematics 1 and 2 are determined by continuous assessment, SCTL presentations, and final examination. Such grading distribution system takes into account the intellectual practices, consistency of performances, group contribution, and individual summative assessment as final grade of the course.
For information, call 1800 882 8267 (tollfree line)/03-8313 7000 or log on to www. cybermed.edu.my.
Application for the May intake for preparatory programmes, Foundation in Science (Medicine/ Pharmacy) and Foundation in Allied Science is now open.