Module overview
Laboratory Exercises
This part of the coursework module provides:
- An introduction to experimentation, data collection, and error analysis.
- Opportunities to complete formal reports based on laboratory work.
Computer Applications
This part of the coursework module provides:
- An introduction to the digital world in the context of academic study within the UK Higher Education system.
- An introduction to programming in Python.
- An opportunity to work in a group using software development cycles.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Computer Applications: Use a computer to solve engineering problems
- Communicate scientific information
- Discuss practical examples where the theoretical concepts developed in the other modules apply
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Record, analyse and evaluate data effectively
- Apply mathematical methods to solve problems
- Work effectively in a group
- Use IT to support your learning
- Communicate scientific information effectively
- Apply problem solving techniques to familiar and unfamiliar problems
- Manage your own learning
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Good practice in recording and reporting experimental procedure and results
- Computer Applications: Digital literacies and the use of common digital tools
- Laboratory and measurement techniques
Syllabus
The topics covered depend on the Foundation Year pathway in which you are enrolled. Full details of the requirements can be found in the Required Coursework document available on the Foundation Year Blackboard site.
Laboratory Exercises
Students not taking a language pathway undertake laboratory activities drawn from:
• Mechanical Science
• Electricity and Electronics
• Engineering Principles
The following applies to UoSM students only who are enrolled on a language pathway:
Language Pathway A
• Mechanical Science
• Engineering Principles
• Extended Language Project
Language Pathway B
• Mechanical Science
• Electricity and Electronics
• Extended Language Project
All students complete practical laboratory work and produce formal laboratory reports based on selected experiments.
Computer Applications
All students undertake activities designed to develop digital, academic, and professional skills required for Higher Education and future employment.
Topics include:
• Digital literacy and information management
• Effective use of online collaboration and productivity tools
• Academic communication and report writing
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging digital technologies
• Data handling and presentation
• Introduction to programming using Python
• Reflective practice and personal development planning
• Research, referencing, and information evaluation
A full description of the computer applications coursework is provided in the annex to this module descriptor.
Semester Breakdown
Semester 1
• Transition to Higher Education and independent learning
• Digital literacy and study skills
• Academic writing and communication
• Research and referencing techniques
• Introduction to programming using Python
• Professional and personal development planning
Semester 2
• Team-based project work
• Development of an e-learning application
• Project planning and management
• Professional communication and teamwork
• Reflective evaluation of skills development
• Preparation of technical and professional reports
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Learning activities include
• Practical sessions
• Writing laboratory reports
• Self-paced study
• Extended writing exercises (language pathways only)
Teaching methods include
• Lectures,
• Tutorials/Workshops
• Laboratories
• Self-paced courses
• Programming exercises
• Individual and Group project work.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Completion of assessment task | 100 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 24 |
| Follow-up work | 36 |
| Tutorial | 24 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 92 |
| Total study time | 300 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Laboratory space and equipment. Foundation Year laboratory
Textbooks
Kircup, Les (1994). Experimental Methods. John Wiley & Sons.
Barrass, Chapman & Hall (1996). Scientists must write.
Holzner, S. Teach Yourself Visual Basic.NET in 21 Days, Sams Teach Yourself.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Referral Policy: Referred students will be asked to complete a number of assessment tasks, which may include a laboratory examination during the supplementary exam session in August/September, sufficient to demonstrate they have achieved those learning outcomes not met on the first attempt. Method of repeat year: Internally only. In order to be able to repeat externally, you must have already attained a pass in this module (at least 60%).Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Programming project | 25% |
| Laboratory Report | 25% |
| Group project | 25% |
| Laboratory Report | 25% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Assessment tasks | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal