Coursework

Learning Outcomes

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Apply problem solving techniques to familiar and unfamiliar problems
• Apply mathematical methods to solve problems
• Record, analyse and evaluate data effectively
• Use IT to support your learning
• Communicate scientific information effectively
• Work effectively in a group
• Manage your own learning

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Communicate scientific information
• Discuss practical examples where the theoretical concepts developed in the other modules apply
• Computer Applications: Use a computer to solve engineering problems

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
• Laboratory and measurement techniques
• Computer Applications: Digital literacies and the use of common digital tools

The topics covered depend on the Foundation Year pathway for which you are enrolled. Full details of the requirements can be found in the document ‘Required Coursework’ available on the Foundation Year Blackboard site.

Laboratory Exercises:

• For students not taking a language pathway this covers topics from mechanical science, electricity and electronics and engineering principles.
• For students on language pathway A this covers topics from mechanical science and engineering principles. In addition students on this pathway undertake an extended language project.
• For students on language pathway B this covers topics from mechanical science and electricity and electronics. In addition students on this pathway undertake an extended language project.
• All students complete two formal laboratory reports based on their practical work.

Computer Applications:

• All students undertake work on computer applications. This involves work on digital literacies, use of online tools and an introduction to programming. A description of the computer applications work is provided as an annexe to this module descriptor

Semester 1

Introduction to digital tools, introduce to HE and digital literacy

Introduction to programming in Python

Semester 2

Team project – building an e-learning app

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.

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Laboratory space and equipment. Foundation Year laboratory

Textbooks

Barrass, Chapman & Hall (1996). Scientists must write.

Kircup, Les (1994). Experimental Methods. John Wiley & Sons.

Holzner, S. Teach Yourself Visual Basic.NET in 21 Days, Sams Teach Yourself.

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.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal