This is a core module for students studying BSc in Mechanical, Aerospace or Automotive related Engineering at level 4. Mathematics and computing are the backbone of modern technology and engineering and fundamental knowledge of electrical and electronic concepts is essential for modern design in all these engineering disciplines. They are all strongly connected through the use of analytical/numerical methods, logic and algorithms, modelling and visualisation. This module is primarily delivered through lectures, problem solving tutorials and laboratory work. The mathematics section of the module covers the fundamentals and application of algebra (including complex numbers and matrices), logarithms, trigonometry, calculus and vectors to typical engineering problems, including, but not exclusive to, mechanical, fluid dynamics, electrical and electronic systems. The computing section includes the application of MATLAB tools and other propriety software packages to illustrate the solution of engineering problems.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
The module is delivered through a variety of lectures and tutorials, projects, laboratory work and the use of appropriate software. Lecture material, tutorials and support material will be made available on Canvas. Lectures and tutorials are designed to introduce the students to the basic mathematics and analytical techniques within an engineering context alongside the fundamentals of electrical and electronic systems needed by all mechanical and automotive engineers. The practical application of these methods and skills, using the various software and application packages, embed the students' knowledge and refines their skills.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | Lectures Tutorial/seminar sessions Laboratory/computer sessions | 46 40 40 |
| Guided independent study | Student independent study | 174 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Summative assessment is by a portfolio of laboratory work, in-class tests and an end of module examination. The in-class coursework comprises of a portfolio of up to six assessed electronics laboratory exercises (20%) and a portfolio of three in-class short answer and MCQ electronics, computing and mathematics tests (30%). The module will conclude with a two-hour electronics, and mathematics examination worth 50% of the module marks. Formative assessment will be provided through tutorial and practical work which will provide opportunities to feed forward so informing the summative assessments. Feedback on formative and summative assessment will take place regularly, within the lecture, tutorial and practical sessions.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) Apply arithmetic, algebraic and simple calculus skills and techniques in solving typical problems in an engineering context. | Written examination. Portfolio of in-class tests. |
| 2) Solve engineering problems analytically and numerically using trigonometry, matrices and calculus. | Written examination. Portfolio of in-class tests. |
| 3) Apply simple principles, laws and theorems to the analysis of electrical and electronic circuits. | Written examination. Portfolio of in-class tests and portfolio of laboratory practical work. |
| 4) Describe characteristics of electrical systems, electronic devices, and electronic instruments and appreciate key concepts such as feedback and amplification. | Written examination. Portfolio of in-class tests and portfolio of laboratory practical work. |
| 5) Use propriety software, such as MATLAB, to solve simple engineering problems. | Portfolio of in-class tests. |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Examination | Written exam | 50% |
| Portfolio of three electronics, computing and mathematics class tests | Written exam | 30% |
| Electronics practical portfolio | Coursework | 20% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
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