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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2022 - 2023

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 7.5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

This module provides an introduction to combinatorial optimisation. In this module students will develop knowledge and skills in the basic combinatorial algorithms applied to optimisation and the mathematics behind these algorithms. They will also interpret the algorithm outputs and translate this into knowledge about the geometry of the original problem and its solution. The participants are expected to have a good knowledge of linear algebra and experience with the abstract approach to mathematics. This module provides the first steps in the discipline known as operations research. Students are expected to attend lectures, participate in tutorials, take in-class tests and do online homework.

Learning Outcomes

1. Apply algorithms in optimisation problems
2. Demonstrate a knowledge of the mathematics underlying algorithms
3. Interpret algorithm output
4. Construct proofs of simple propositions
5. Determine geometry of optimisation problems from linear algebra computations.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture36Lecture
Tutorial12Tutorial
Independent Study170Independent learning
Directed learning3Final Exam
Total Workload: 221

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Graphs
Graphs, trees, shortest path algorithms, greedy algorithm, matroids

Polytopes
Polytopes, Farkas' Lemma, linear programming, the geometry of linear inequalities

Matchings
matching problems, bipartite matching, weighted matching

Network flow
max-flow via simplex method, and via graph search

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Eugene Lawler: 2001, Combinatorial optimization, Dover Publications, Mineola, N.Y., 0486414531
  • Hamdy A. Taha,: 0, Operations Research: An Introduction, 9780132555937
  • David G. Luenberger, Yinyu Ye (Contributor): 0, Linear and Nonlinear Programming, 978-1441945044
Other Resources

None
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