Aims and Fit of Module

The module aims to promotethe application of engineering knowledge, initiative, enthusiasm, etc. to plan, carry out and control an open-ended project in a topic which is developed by academic staff. It also aims to enhance communication skills by writing proposal, progress and final reports, giving oral presentations, presenting a poster and maintaining a logbook. Students also experience a major task similar to those of working as a professional engineer in an industrial or research organization.

Learning outcomes

A.	Identify and evaluate the key aspects of an engineering-related research project to demonstrate this awareness by providing a comprehensive review of recent developments in the subject area.

B.	Manage a research project in terms of scope, time and resources.

C.	Plan and design a laboratory experiment/computer analysis/survey using suitable techniques and procedures with due regard to health and safety.

D.	Analyse technical problems qualitatively and/or quantitatively.

E.	Demonstrate inter-active, computing, IT, technical report writing, oral presentation and poster design skills.

Method of teaching and learning

Regular meetings/consultations with supervisor, laboratory work under direct/indirect (where appropriate) supervision, self-organisation, preparation of proposal, interim and final reports and oral presentations.