Unit information: Practical Physics 301 in 2021/22

Unit name	Practical Physics 301
Unit code	PHYS39010
Credit points	10
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	120 credit points at Level I/5 in Physics, Physics with Astrophysics, joint honours Mathematics and Physics or Physics and Philosophy, or Chemical Physics programmes.
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Physics
Faculty	Faculty of Science

Description including Unit Aims

This unit (Laboratory Work) requires the student to complete one research-based experiment under the guidance of a supervisor, 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/7 research project.

Aims:

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.

Supplementary or resit assessment of this unit is only possible through engagement in the following academic year.

Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of this unit students will:

• 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.

Teaching Information

• supervised laboratory sessions; students who either begin or continue their studies in an online mode should note that it is likely they may be required to complete practical work or alternative activities in person, either during the academic year 2020/21 or subsequently, in order to meet the intended learning outcomes for the unit, prepare them for subsequent units or to satisfy any accreditation requirements
• independent practical activities

Assessment Information

Assessment is done by the supervisor, who evaluates the day-to-day work, the work-book and final report. The mark for the work is obtained by assessing these components in the following criteria: scientific content; quality of experimental work; and communication skills. Marks and feedback are provided in writing and verbally during the meeting with the supervisor. The head of the laboratory unit reads all feedback forms and moderates marks if necessary.

Resources

If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.

If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. PHYS39010).

How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks, independent learning and assessment activity.

See the Faculty workload statement relating to this unit for more information.

Assessment
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit. The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. If you have self-certificated your absence from an assessment, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (this is usually in the next assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any extenuating circumstances and operates within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.