Unit name | Practical Physics 303 |
---|---|
Unit code | PHYS39030 |
Credit points | 30 |
Level of study | H/6 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24) |
Unit director | Dr. Sarua |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
120cp at Level I/5 in single or joint honours Physics programmes. |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Physics |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
This unit compromises three non-lecture-based 10cp units: PHYS39010 Practical Physics 301; PHYS38012 Computational Physics 301 and PHYS38013 Group Work 301; all of which are mandatory for MSci in Physics and in Physics with Astrophysics.
The Practical Physics 301 unit requires the student to complete one research-based experiment under the guidance of a supervisor for that experiment, thereby developing additional experience of modern instrumental techniques, learning to solve advanced experimental problems, developing fault-finding and correction skills and as preparation for the level M research project.
The Computational Physics 301 unit builds on computational physics from levels C/4 and I/5. The course introduces techniques for evaluation, differentiation, integration and solution of equations, and then applies this to the study of a variety of realistic physical systems. Self paced programming exercises of increasing complexity, with hands-on guidance from demonstrators. This is a course on solving scientific problems using computers. Students will learn how to use computational methods in a scientific computing environment to solve physics problems, what the limitations of computers are and how to overcome or avoid these limitations.
In the Group Work 301 unit each group of around eight students produces a written report and a twenty minute presentation on a topical area of pure or applied physics. The report comprises a technical paper in the style of a review article, and a popular account in the style of a magazine article, with a combined total length of no more than 8000 words. The emphasis of the unit is on collective work and study, and the assessment criteria reflect this.
Aims:
Practical Physics 301
To develop additional experimental skills in the context of experimental modules closely linked to current research activities in the department.
To develop improved confidence in handling advanced equipment and improve fault-finding and correction skills.
Computational Physics 301
To develop additional computational skills specifically aimed at programming to manipulate scientific data and presenting the results in a scientifically correct, clear and attractive way.
To learn some techniques for simulating experimental data.
Group Work 301
To develop an understanding and appreciation of the collective nature of scientific research.
To develop a capacity for independent work as part of a larger group.
To develop interpersonal skills, particularly the presentation and defence of a group effort.
To develop skills in independently locating and interpreting scientific and technical literature.
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
Practical Physics 301 - Have greater awareness of the research in certain groups in the department. Have greater confidence and improved experimental skills in handling advanced research-based equipment.
Computational Physics 301 -
Students should be able to:
Group Work 301 - By the end of this unit students will have gained experience of:
Practical Physics 301
Each experiment is supervised by an academic who introduces, oversees and advises on the experiment. Experiments are usually taken in pairs.
Computational Physics 301
The students self-pace through the problems, with set computer laboratory hours available where the laboratory is manned by demonstrators. Problems must be completed to a time-table.
Group Work 301
Each group is expected to appoint an editor, who takes overall responsibility for the coordination of the work, and who may have one or more deputies with specific responsibilities (such as the preparation of the popular account or presentation). The group are assisted in their work by an academic, who proposes the topic, and gives guidance in identifying resources and producing a well-written report and clear presentation. The role of the supervisor is to facilitate the group’s work and provide scientific and stylistic input; they are not involved in proof-reading or review of the assessed materials, or in assigning work within the group. The group define their own frequency and means of meeting, but are expected to meet weekly, collectively or via a representative, with their academic supervisor.
Practical Physics 301
Assessment is done by the supervisor, who marks the day-to-day work, the workbook and final report. The final mark for the work is obtained by assessing these components using following criteria: scientific content, quality of experimental work and communication skills. Marks and feedback to the student are provided in writing, and verbally during a meeting with the supervisor. A moderator reads all the feedback forms and moderates marks, if necessary.
Computational Physics 301
Formative Assessment:
Feedback is provided on the first three exercises in time to inform the next exercise
Summative Assessment:
100% Coursework (four equally weighted exercises, students submitting their programs and an approximately 10 page report).
Group Work 301
Written reports are assessed by the group academic supervisor. Presentations are peer-assessed by the entire class. Moderation is performed in both cases by the module coordinator, and / or a deputy module coordinator. The weighting of marks is 50% for the technical report, 25% for the popular account, and 25% for the presentation. All group members receive the same mark. Each student is also required to provide evidence of their individual contribution in the form of a personal dossier, documenting the resources used in preparing the assessed work, and offering a brief commentary on
Practical Physics 301
Material appropriate to the specific experiment will be provided.
Computational Physics 301
Numerical Recipes, 3rd Edition (Press et al)
Group Work 301
Selected key resources will be provided by the academic supervisor. Identification of other materials is a goal of the unit.