Description

This module comprises two one-term projects, which may be theoretical or experimental, and are normally undertaken in a pair. These projects are open-ended. Although normally inspired by research in the Department, students may propose their own topics for investigation. Students will produce a formal written scientific report of their first project, and will collaborate to make a poster presentation of their second project.

Module Aims

Project work not only gives students the opportunity to carry out research or a detailed investigation into a specific area of experimental or theoretical physics but it also requires them to develop and apply analytical and problem-solving skills in a context where they won't be told the 'right' answer but must discover, and validate it themselves. This may involve devising explanations or solutions, use of the library, computer, and other resources, working in small groups, and in the presentation and communication of their work, in both written and oral form.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

A student who has passed this module should be able to:

• Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
  1. investigate areas of physics in a systematic way using appropriate experimental and/or theoretical techniques;
  2. systematically record their work in a notebook;
  3. demonstrate an awareness of the general requirements of safety regulations;
  4. identify any specific hazards associated with their particular project and/or its environment, describe the associated procedures for safe working, and explain the rationale for such procedures;
  5. appropriately complete risk assessment forms (such as those published by the School or the University Safety Office) a required by their particular project;
  6. include consideration of safety aspects in the design of experiments;
• Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
  7. research and write background material;
  8. report results and conclusions in a formal written report;
  9. retrive information from data-bases and libraries;
  10. prepare a poster and deliver an oral presentation;
• Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:
  11. organise a programme of work;
  12. interact with other group members;
  13. write reports containing original material or analysis;
  14. use computers appropriately.

Syllabus Plan

In the Term 1, students work on the first project and must write-up the project in a formal report which must be handed in before the Christmas vacation. This will be typset with LaTeX or word-processed (for word-limit see 'Assessment Methods' above). It will review the background to the project, outline the work done and the results obtained in the project. Work in Term 2 follows a similiar pattern, except that the final report is in the form of a poster presentation which will which will be displayed on the first-floor corridor wall. Details of the various exercises and the assessment criteria are given in the BSc Final Year Projects section of the Physics handbook.

Supervision and assistance is available from project supervisors and/or laboratory demonstrators during the project periods.

Learning and Teaching

Learning Activities and Teaching Methods

Assessment

Notes:  Refer to the detailed description of the BSc Final Year Projects in the Physics Handbook.

Resources

The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of information that students are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Instructor(s).

Core text:

• Not applicable

Supplementary texts:

• Not applicable

ELE:

• http://newton.ex.ac.uk/redirects/ELE/phy3138

Further Information

Prior Knowledge Requirements

Re-assessment

Re-assessment is not available except when required by referral or deferral.

Notes: Re-assessment is not available for this module.

KIS Data Summary

Miscellaneous