Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Chemical Physics Lab Project
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20PZ
Semester
On or OffCampus
Credits
2
On
15
1. Pre-requisites
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
Code:
Date Of Replacement:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
7. Aims
5.
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
No
X
MPhys Chemical Physics
To provide experience and develop skills in an experimental project, including good laboratory practice and record-keeping and presentational skills.
8. Syllabus
Developing professional level practical skills
Conducting a defined experimental project in either physics or physical chemistry
Preparation of a formal report on the project carried out.
Keeping a comprehensive record of measurements taken and equipment settings.
Conducting a background literature survey
Formal presentation of work carried out.
Viva voce examination
1/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Chemical Physics Lab Project
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20PZ
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
 Demonstrate a knowledge of high level techniques in experimental physics/physical chemsitry
 Apply experimental and computational techniques in a defined project.
 Follow a line of enquiry in a project context.
 Apply a critical assessment of experimental data and errors
 Analyse, evaluate and interpret experimental evidence relevant to the work conducted.
 Demonstrate record-keeping skills to a professional level.
 Demonstrate a detailed background knowledge of a topic of original research
 Demonstrate an understanding of experimental design and setup.
 Demonstrate a knowledge of the concepts and theory underpinning the topic of original research
 Apply specialist practical skills to a topic of original research
 Report experimental results accurately and interpret them effectively
 Conduct a literature search and assess reported work critically
Personal Abilities
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Make formal presentations on a specialised topic to an informed audience
 Communicate effectively with professional level colleagues and specialists
 Interpret, use and evaluate a wide range of data to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Use a range of software to support and enhance work at an advanced level
 Undertake critical evaluation of a wide range of data
 Deal with complex issues and make informed judgements in situations of incomplete or inconsistent data
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from disparate sources and a large body of knowledge
 Exercise initiative and independence in carrying out research and learning activities
 Display self-motivation in progressing the work
 Bring own ideas to bear and discuss with colleagues
10. Assessment Methods
Method
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
(if applicable)
Continuous assessment
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
100%
Remedial assignments (100%)
2/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Chemical Physics Lab Project
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20PZ
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
25/09/09
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
Version
Number
2
3/3