Many real-world engineering structures are too complex for their behaviour to be understood using an ‘exact’ analytical or theoretical method alone. Therefore, in practice we often use approximate numerical or simulation-based tools for structural analysis, of which Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is the most established. The Finite Element Method (FEM) unlocks the ability for engineers to predict the performance of complex structures in detail, including their deformations and stresses generated by mechanical loads, and their free and forced vibration. However, the predictions obtained from these simulations are only as reliable as the data used to generate them, and this is limited by necessary simplifications and assumptions. A skilled FE analyst understands the assumptions and limitations of the method, and they can make best use of the range of commercial FEA software packages available by drawing on an understanding of the theory behind the simulations. This module is aimed at providing the requisite background theory and practical experience of solving problems using the Finite Element Method. It provides fundamental knowledge and an understanding of the technique of FEM, equipping students with tools to analyse engineering structures problems using FEM and typical commercial FEA packages.
The purpose of the module is to develop students’ ability to undertake field research in geography by practice-based learning on a fieldtrip and associated lectures. The module will give practical experience of carrying out research to ensure practical skills and research experiences that will ready students for Year 2. The practical experience of undertaking group research project as part of a fieldcourse, as well as a range of research skills including design, methodology and data analysis, will be learnt. The module is core for all first year geography programmes; activities in the field will be tailored to physical and human geography specialisations.
This module focuses on the exceptional diversity of forms and functions of fishes, how they evolved and how best to study them in the field and lab. Using a combination of lectures, laboratory exercises, and field trips, we will begin by exploring how geological and climatic events in Earth's history are associated with the evolution of major fish lineages. We will then shift focus to consider how fish interact with their habitats and evaluate different techniques we can apply to study the community composition and functional ecology of fishes. Students will leave this module with an appreciation of the extensive diversity of fishes and a knowledge of how their evolutionary history has shaped marine and aquatic ecosystems around the world.
This module aims to provide you with a thorough knowledge of the fixed income securities and techniques available for fixed income securities analysis, together with an understanding of investment data and performance measurement. Emphasis will be placed on the use of this knowledge in the current financial market environment.
This module will introduce and develop flexible statistical modelling methods that allow for general and complex forms of data to be modelled, extending ideas already encountered in earlier modules on linear and/or generalised linear modelling. The two main foci of the syllabus will be methods for modelling grouped data using random effects, and non-parametric “smoothing” methods for modelling data with complex functional form.
