Module Provider: |
Physics |
Number of credits: |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
H (Honours) |
Terms in which taught: |
Autumn, Spring and Summer |
Module Convenor: |
Dr
PA
Hatherly |
Pre-requisites: |
PH1004 PH2004
|
Co-requisites: |
|
Modules excluded: |
|
Module version for: |
2007/8 |
Aims:
To develop increased competence in experimental techniques and the use of research level equipment and techniques. To experience and participate in a peer-review process of assessment. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
During the course of the module, students will:
Experience a range of research-related experimental techniques including, but not limited to, vacuum technology, high resolution spectroscopic techniques and high precision measurements.
Perform extended experiments involving a high degree of personal initiative and planning.
Prepare both brief and extended reports on experimental work carried out
Experience and participate in a peer-review exercise on extended reports |
Additional outcomes:
Students will develop their experimental skills to a point appropriate for carrying out a research based project. The experience of peer-review will provide students with an appreciation of this important mechanism for the refereeing of research proposals and publications. |
Outline content:
Extended experiments on a range of topics and using a variety of research related techniques. Peer-review assessment |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
The module will comprise weekly 3-hour laboratory sessions in the Autumn, Spring and Summer terms. Students will typically work in pairs and in the first 15 weeks of the module, carry out three experiments. Laboratory handbooks containing instrument manuals and guidance notes will be provided, and staff will be available to provide advice. Students will keep a record of their work in laboratory log books. At the conclusion of each experiment, students will prepare a brief report.
The final five weeks of the Spring term will be used by students in preparing an extended report on one experiment, which will be submitted to other students on the module via the convener for anonymous peer-review. The peer-review procedure and final allocation of grades will be completed early in the Summer term. At each stage in the peer-review process, guidance will be provided. |
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
|
|
|
| Tutorials/seminars |
|
|
|
| Practicals |
30 |
15 |
|
| Other contact (eg study visits) |
|
3 |
3 |
| |
|
|
|
| Total hours |
30 |
18 |
3 |
| |
|
|
|
| Number of essays or assignments |
|
|
|
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Assessment:
Coursework:
Short reports submitted at the completion of each experiment, 15% each
An extended report on one experiment, 30%
Peer-review process, 25%
Relative percentage of coursework: 100%
Examinations:
None
Requirements for a pass:
40%
Reassessment arrangements:
Extended reports on all three experiments to be submitted by the start of the academic year following completion of the module. 100% |
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