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2021/22 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

PHYS5022M MSc Project

90 creditsClass Size: 40

Module manager: Dr Adam Sweetman
Email: A.M.Sweetman@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: 1 Jan to 31 Jan (13mth), Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2021/22

Module replaces

PHYS5018M and PHYS5019M

This module is not approved as an Elective

Objectives

On completion of the module a student should be able to:
- To undertake a detailed review of the research literature and write a comprehensive report.
- Plan a programme of research work together with the supervisor
- Operate effectively as a team when more than one person is working on the project, with the supervisor, other members of the research group, and project partners where appropriate.
- Present a written report in good scientific language
- Deliver an oral presentation on the project
- Describe, defend, and criticise the project during a viva-voce.

Learning outcomes
- Know how to research a chosen area in physics using online resources
- Know how to structure a detailed literature review
- Critically analyze and summarize the literature in an agreed area of Physics
- Solve advanced problems in physics using appropriate mathematical tools;
- Use mathematical techniques and analysis to model physical behaviour and interpret mathematical descriptions of physical phenomena;
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of a variety of experimental, mathematical and/or computational techniques applicable to current research within physics;
- Plan and execute an investigation, critically analyse the results and draw valid conclusions, evaluate the level of uncertainty in results and compare with theoretical predictions or published data;
- Communicate complex scientific ideas concisely, accurately and informatively;
- Manage own learning and make use of appropriate texts, research articles and other primary sources.

Skills outcomes
- Students will gain knowledge of the literature and online resources in specific areas of physics.
- The ability to plan and execute a major scientific project
- Oral and written presentation skills
- Time management and prioritisation skills.


Syllabus

- Selection of project
- Students will research the literature surrounding their research project to hone in on the key research to be undertaken.
- Online research resources will be employed to find relevant reviews, articles and preprints.
- Plan the project
- Literature search
- Laboratory work or computation as appropriate to carry out project;
- preparation of draft report
- Preparation of final report
- Viva voce and oral presentation.

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Supervision211.0021.00
Practical277.00189.00
Independent online learning hours300.00
Private study hours390.00
Total Contact hours210.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)900.00

Private study

Students will use on-line research tools to undertake a detailed review of the literature. They will select the papers that are relevant to the research topic and provide a critical analysis of the papers. They will condense their review with a summary and conclusions. The analysis will be written up as a substantive review of the literature.
As this is an independent research module, each project will vary according to the needs of the particular research question being addressed. Suggested time allocation for private study are listed below
Self study/research: 500 hours
- Preparing for presentations: 10 hours
- Writing final project: 90 hours
- Suggested reading will be available from your supervisor

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Progress is monitored at weekly meetings with the supervisor(s) as well as by regular informal meetings during the course of the work.
The supervisor provides guidance on the preparation for project plan, oral presentation, viva voce and reports.
An assessor is appointed to monitor the progress of the work and offer advice as required and jointly assess the assignments.

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Literature ReviewLiterature review15.00
EssayEssay5.00
In-course AssessmentIn-course Assessment25.00
Essay or DissertationEssay or Dissertation30.00
In-course AssessmentIn-course Assessment5.00
VivaViva10.00
Oral PresentationOral Presentation10.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)100.00

Students must submit a reasonable attempt at all assessments for this module to pass this module.

Reading list

There is no reading list for this module

Last updated: 12/07/2021 13:47:39

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