Module overview
This module combines development of laboratory skills, computing skills and scientific writing skills.
Laboratory exercises - this part of the Coursework Modules offers you:
- an introduction into experimentation, data collection and error analysis
- opportunities to complete formal reports based on the lab work completed
Computer applications - this part of the Coursework Module offers you:
- 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:
- Discuss practical examples where the theoretical concepts developed in the other modules apply
- Communicate scientific information
- Computer Applications: Use a computer to solve engineering problems
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Record, analyse and evaluate data effectively
- Manage your own learning
- Use IT to support your learning
- Apply problem solving techniques to familiar and unfamiliar problems
- Communicate scientific information effectively
- Apply mathematical methods to solve problems
- Work effectively in a group
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Laboratory and measurement techniques
- Computer Applications: Digital literacies and the use of common digital tools
- Good practice in recording and reporting experimental procedure and results
Syllabus
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
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 |
|---|---|
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 24 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 92 |
| Tutorial | 24 |
| Completion of assessment task | 100 |
| Follow-up work | 36 |
| Total study time | 300 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Laboratory space and equipment. Foundation Year laboratory
Textbooks
Holzner, S. Teach Yourself Visual Basic.NET in 21 Days, Sams Teach Yourself.
Kircup, Les (1994). Experimental Methods. John Wiley & Sons.
Barrass, Chapman & Hall (1996). Scientists must write.
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 |
|---|---|
| Choice of laboratory work or language project | 12% |
| Laboratory Report | 12% |
| Assignment | 8% |
| Choice of laboratory work or language project | 12% |
| Assessment | 20% |
| Class Test | 12% |
| Laboratory | 12% |
| Laboratory Report | 12% |
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