Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2021 - MATH 208W D100

Introduction to Operations Research (3)

Class Number: 3547

Delivery Method: Remote

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 11 – Apr 16, 2021: Wed, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 11 – Apr 16, 2021: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 26, 2021
    Mon, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MATH 150 or 151 or 154 or 157.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduction to methods of operations research: linear and nonlinear programming, simulation, and heuristic methods. Applications to transportation, assignment, scheduling, and game theory. Exposure to mathematical models of industry and technology. Emphasis on computation for analysis and simulation. Students with credit for MATH 208 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:


This course will be delivered online. You are expected to have access to a reliable internet connection. You will need a computer from which you can download course materials and activities and watch live and/or recorded lectures and participate in live tutorials or workshops.

You will need a camera to take photographs of your work. A phone is acceptable.

Topics covered

Modelling problems with many variables as linear programs.
Using spreadsheet applications to solve these models.  Network flow models.
Sensitivity analysis.  Integer and non-linear models.
Applications may include resource allocation, shipping and financial planning.

Modelling problems using discrete-event simulations.
Random numbers and distributions.  Queueing theory.

Students will learn mathematical typesetting using LaTeX, and spreadsheets using Excel.
A feature of the course will be a team project, in which students analyze a substantial mathematical problem and present their results in writing and in a formal presentation.

Grading

  • Individual Homework Assignments 30%
  • Team Homework Assignments 15%
  • Essay 5%
  • Midterm 10%
  • Term Project (including presentation and report) 20%
  • Final Exam 20%

NOTES:

THE INSTRUCTOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE ANY OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION.
Students should be aware that they have certain rights to confidentiality concerning the return of course papers and the posting of marks.
Please pay careful attention to the options discussed in class at the beginning of the semester.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Required:

    Access to strong and reliable internet.
    Ability to scan documents (phone app acceptable)
    Access to webcam and microphone (embedded in computer sufficient)

REQUIRED READING:

Optimization Modeling with Spreadsheets, 3rd Edition
Kenneth R. Baker
ISBN: 978-1-118-93773-0

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SPRING 2021

Teaching at SFU in spring 2021 will be conducted primarily through remote methods. There will be in-person course components in a few exceptional cases where this is fundamental to the educational goals of the course. Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).