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The University of Melbourne
620-332
Integral Transforms and Asymptotics
Semester 2, 2007

620-332 First-time Visitor Page

Generic Skills

While the subject is intended to give you the opportunity to acquire a working knowledge of practical techniques used very widely in many areas of applied mathematics, the subject also gives you an opportunity to deepen your understanding of limiting processes and of the striking difference between real and complex analysis, and an opportunity to to understand better the interplay of mathematical concepts and practical concerns.

In addition to learning specific technical skills that will assist you in your future careers in science, engineering, commerce, education or elsewhere, you will have the opportunity to develop in this subject generic skills that will assist you whatever your future career path.

  • You will develop problem-solving skills (especially through practice class exercises) including engaging with unfamiliar problems, and identifying relevant strategies.

  • You will develop analytical skills - the ability to construct and express logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of the analysis.
The material in this subject has rich links with many disciplines and draws on many important themes of mathematics. You will have the opportunity to reflect on topics previously treated at a more superficial level, and may come to realize the importance of giving precise definitions, choosing notation and terminology wisely, and balancing heuristic explorations and rigorous analyses while understanding their difference. You will find that proper conceptual understanding is distinct from, but essential for, genuine technical facility.

Specifically for students enrolled or planning to enrol...

Students planning to enrol in this subject, or already enrolled, should read the annotated handbook entry.

Students who have previously failed the subject in 2003, 2004 or 2006 should note that teaching material from previous years that you may have may not be sufficient for the study of this year's version of 620-332 as notation and emphasis may be different. Attendance at all lectures and practice classes is strongly advised.

Response to student feedback

The coordinator for 2007 previously taught this subject in 2001, 2002 and 2005. In response to student comments concerning the pace, workload associated with the subject, and difficulty of the material:
  • several changes to the 2002 content were made for 2005 and these are preserved in the 2007 version;
  • to assist students in mastering the first subtle concepts introduced, practice classes commence in the first week, unlike many other Mathematics and Statistics subjects;
  • printed material that uses the lecturer's notational conventions and basic approach, and is better tuned to the course as presented than standard textbooks, is available for purchase at the Bookroom.

Return to 620-332 Home Page

See the annotated handbook entry, which has important details concerning prerequisites and assessment arrangements.

See the draft lecture schedule


© The University of Melbourne 1994-2007. Disclaimer and Copyright Information. 

Created: 5 July 2007
Last modified: 5 July 2007
Authorised by: Barry Hughes, Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Maintained by: Barry Hughes, Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Email: hughes@ms.unimelb.edu.au