2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

PHAS1800 Experimental and Computational Methods in Physics

30 creditsClass Size: 200

Module manager: Emma Cochrane
Email: e.c.a.cochrane@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Pre-requisite qualifications

A-level Maths

Co-requisites

PHAS1810

Core Physics 1 (JH) Mechanics, Thermodynamics and Solid Stat

Module replaces

PHYS1260PHYS1261PHYS1220

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module introduces students to the skills needed to be successful on a degree course with Physics, encompassing experimental, computational, communication and employability skills, and will be introduced to programming using the Python computer programming language. Students will also undertake tasks and assessments designed to improve team working and presentation skills, as well as reflective practice.Students will also develop mathematical skills and knowledge that are relevant to the learning of Physics.

Objectives

On completion of this module students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in a range of experimental physics, programming skills and mathematical ability, as well as the ability to communicate scientific ideas, work as part of a team, and evaluate their own performance.

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the ability to:

1. use a range of laboratory apparatus safely and competently to obtain results within the time allowed, either by following instructions and using their own experimental designs and risk assessments.
2. accurately record experimental details and results, analyse data and determine uncertainties by selecting appropriate analytical techniques, and critically evaluate an experiment.
3. use Python to write simple programmes and debug code; understand the syntax, the logical operators and code structures available in Python, and the application of loops and functions.
4. use appropriate scientific computing packages, including Python, to employ computer based data visualisation.
5. Present scientific content, ideas and data using a range styles and digital tools.
6. Demonstrate knowledge and application of maths topics that are applicable to Physics.

Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated:
a. Academic Skills; reflection, critical thinking, presentation skills, academic writing, academic language, time management
b. Digital; digital proficiency and productivity, information, data and media literacies, digital creation, problem solving and innovation, digital communication collaboration and participation, digital learning and development.
c. Work Ready Skills; communication, time management, planning and organising, teamwork/collaboration, technical/IT skills, problem solving and analytical skills, personal/career management, creativity, critical thinking, interpersonal skills, working under pressure, decision-making.
d. Technical Skills; experimental, programming and analytical skills used within Physics and Astronomy.
e. Sustainability Skills; systems thinking, anticipatory/future thinking, critical thinking, collaboration, integrated problem solving, effective communication.
f. Enterprise Skills; developing vision and purpose, applying creativity and innovation, self-awareness, adaptability and resilience, planning and mobilising resources, working and communicating with others, managing uncertainty, ambiguity and risk, information searching.

Syllabus

During this module students will conduct laboratory based experimental work drawn from core physics topics and will be introduced to computer programming using the Python programming language. Students will also participate in workshops to reflect on their experiences and think about future careers. Throughout this module students will undertake a series of tasks and assessments to develop their experimental and computational skills as well as enhance their communication, presentation, mathematical skills and reflective practices.

Methods of Assessment

We are currently refreshing our modules to make sure students have the best possible experience. Full assessment details for this module are not available before the start of the academic year, at which time details of the assessment(s) will be provided.

Assessment for this module will consist of;

1 x Coursework

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	21	2.00	42.00
Practical	33	7.00	95.00
Seminar	10	1.00	10.00
Private study hours			153.00
Total Contact hours			147.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			300.00

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 05/06/2024

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