School of Mathematics

Flexible learning supported by excellence in teaching

Maths lecturer teaching

Teaching & assessment

Maths subjects are taught by lectures supported by tutorials, workshops and practical classes. As a mathematics undergraduate at Leeds you will enjoy extensive tutorial support. Our courses offer many modes of learning and assessment. You will have great freedom of choice, both in your workload and, depending on your programme, in the range of topics you can study.

Watch a video explaining how university differs to school.

When you choose Leeds you will benefit from the following teaching methods:

Lectures
Lectures are a student’s staple diet – the main source of information and knowledge, but probably quite different to anything you have encountered at school. Lectures are learning by listening to a lecturer. There are a variety of teaching styles, but perhaps the most common and effective remains the traditional ‘chalk and talk’. Here, the lecturer works through the mathematics on the board, explaining what they are doing, and why, as they go along. This gives you a real feeling for the mathematical process.

Lectures are usually 50 minutes long, with audiences ranging from more than 100 down to 5 students. You will be expected to take notes and there may be hand-outs (these are often available on the web for you to download). Typically you will have about 12 hours of lectures a week.

Tutorials and workshops
You will get academic support for your modules through small group tutorials or workshops. Tutorials comprise discussions between small groups of students and a lecturer. A workshop takes place with a larger set of students in which you often work in small groups to practice problems associated with the course. Both give an excellent opportunity to ask questions and make sure that you understand the material that is given in lectures.

Timetable
Normal weeks are a combination of lectures, tutorials and private study times. This encompasses both individual work and group projects. There is plenty of scope for private study and we're well equipped with computer clusters where you can use the latest computer teaching aids.

Timetables for current programmmes can be found here.

Assessment
Just as we use a variety of teaching methods we also use a range of assessment types to encourage students to show us their talent.

There are formal exams to test knowledge in particular subject content and develop the ability to think quickly, as well as in-course assessment which can account for 25% of the marks in some cases.

Details on the types of assessment used for each module can be found on the University Module Catalogue

VLE (Virtual Learning Environment)
The VLE is an online resource where you can store your personalised study material, access module and course information that is specific to your programme, and also gain access to other online resources such as the Library.

Access is via secured login using your student registration details.

Independent study
Lectures introduce you to a topic, but you are never really sure whether you have understood an area of mathematics until you have had chance to work it through for yourself. You will get regular problem sheets to solve; you can have a go at these on your own, or with friends, with help at tutorials. Naturally, we encourage students to talk through problems arising from coursework. Many queries can be resolved by a quick chat with a lecturer.

Part of studying at university is that you will take increasing responsibility for your own learning. There are various facilities to aide you with this including extensive computer clusters and virtually universal wireless connectivity. The Edward Boyle Library is less than two minutes walk from the School of Mathematics and not only has multiple copies of the recommended books but also provides a variety of different studying environments, such as personal and flexible group work areas.

Peer assisted learning (PAL) 
In our popular ‘PAL’ sessions, second and third-year students assist first-years to obtain a deeper understanding of their studies. These sessions provide the first-years with the chance to see how their fellow students have learnt to approach problems. It is also a great experience for the students in higher years who find that explaining the theory aids them in further understanding the subject.

Personal tutors
Every student is assigned a personal tutor who is there to assist you in your studies and make sure you make the most of your time with us. Your personal tutor is usually an academic member of staff and their role is academic, pastoral, and administrative:

  • Your tutor will advise you on your course, helping you negotiate the many options. They will advise you about your module choices and opportunities for personal development and discuss your progress with you (e.g. exam results).
  • Your tutor will be concerned about your personal welfare. If the going gets tough, your tutor will provide encouragement, a sympathetic ear and, if appropriate, impartial advice. For problems your tutor cannot deal with, there are professional advisors on campus.
  • Once you've completed your degree course, your tutor will be a good point of contact for letters of reference or advice on future careers and postgraduate study options.


Watch a video of students talking about how why their experiences of personal tutors.

The University also runs a scheme called Leeds For Life the aim of which is to ensure that you make the most of your time here with us in Leeds. It is all about developing a range of skills and attributes both within your programme of study and through your additional activities. You will be encouraged to discuss ‘Leeds for Life’ with your Personal Tutor.

The electives system
With some degree programmes you have the option to take elective modules from across the University. Almost any subject taught in the University can be studied, allowing you to fashion your own academic profile as your interests develop. You may opt for 100% mathematics, or choose a strong second subject not unlike a joint degree, or study a broader spread of disciplines.

Joint honours courses
Information on the teaching and assessment methods used in other subject areas, linked through joint honours courses, can be found on the equivalent pages of the associated School websites. 

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