Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Many industry problems involve a decision problem often under the restriction of limited resources. Operations research techniques provide solutions to these problems and are essential knowledge for the applied mathematician.

Aims

This unit will provide you with a sound understanding of the theory and applications of introductory Operations Research.

Objectives

Successful completion of this unit should enable you to:

1. Formulate a real-life problem in mathematical terms;
2. Select and apply Operations Research techniques, tools and methods to solve and analyse a variety of problems in this area;
3. Use spreadsheet modelling and other computer based techniques;
4. Express the solution to a problem in both quantitative and qualitative form; and
5. Have a foundation for further studies in Operations Research.

Content

The general nature of Operations Research.
Fundamentals of linear programming (LP).
Formulation of LP problems.
Solution of LP problems using graphical method.
Simplex method.
Analysis of LP models (analytical approach), sensitivity analysis, finding dual of an LP.
Economic interpretation of dual problems, shadow prices.
Computer solutions and sensitivity analysis using spread sheets.
Network Analysis.
Project scheduling techniques (CPM and PERT).
Transportation problems.
Transhipment problems.
Assignment problems.
Shortest-route problems.
Computer solution of the network problems.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

The material will be presented by formal lectures of 2 hours duration per week. Consolidation of concepts and techniques presented is achieved through workshops and practical sessions. The emphasis is placed on solving problems related to specific work situations. Operations Research computer package programs will be used for quick connection of theory and practice. Real-life case studies from different industry sectors will be provided as assignments. Creativity in problem-solving and critical assessment skills will be promoted with open discussions.

Assessment

The assessment procedure is carefully designed to help you manage and optimise your learning throughout the semester, allowing for different individual situations and capabilities. The assessment procedure is designed to help you develop your understanding and skills throughout the semester, aiming for achievement of the synergies and synthesis of the unit by the end of semester.Formative feedback is provided throughout the semester on individual, group and class work in verbal and written forms. Timely summative feedback is provided on all assessment, consisting of comments to assist students improve their understanding to all problems and case studies.

Assessment name: Case Study
Description: There are two case studies as part of this unit. Case study 1: Two case studies using a linear programming technique in which you will formulate, solve and analyse each problem. This is primarily formative.Weighting: 10%. Case Study 2: Two sections - one is a transportation case study and the other is a project-scheduling problem. Weighting: 10%.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 7 & 12

Assessment name: Quiz/Test
Description: There will be two quizzes as part of this unit. Quiz 1 Ccovers the first five weeks of the content and is held in Week 6. This will give you an indication of your progress in this unit.
Weighting: 10%. The second quiz will take place in Week 11 and covers weeks 6,7,8, 9 and 10 of the contents. Weighting: 10%. These quizzes will give you an indication of your progress in this unit.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 4 and 5.
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 6 & 11

Assessment name: Examination (theory)
Description: Final examination. This will assess your knowledge and skills in using the techniques studied throughout the unit.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 4 and 5.
Weight: 60%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End Semester

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Texts:

Note: No prescribed text book.

Rerences:

The first reference listed below is highly recommended:

Winston, W.L. (2004), Operations Research Applications and Algorithms, Boston: Duxbury Press
Hillier, F.S. (2009), Introduction to Operations Research, McGraw Hill.
Taha, H.A. ( 2006), Operations Research. An Introduction, Prentice Hall.


Note: There are several other operations research books in the QUT Library.

Risk assessment statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit. You will be made aware of evacuation procedures and assembly areas in the first few lectures. You should be conscious of your health and safety at all times whilst on campus. More information can be obtained from http://www.hrd.qut.edu.au/healthsafety/healthsafe/index.jsp

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 22-Oct-2012