Self-directed learning forms the basis for this module. A critical aspect of this module is the interaction between the project supervisor and the student. The supervisor will typically meet the student on a weekly basis. The supervisor will guide and assist the student in the process of planning, designing and testing his/her project.
Module Aim:
To give the students the knowledge, competencies and skills to plan, implement and report on a specified electronic project.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Complete detailed research on an assigned problem/subject area.
LO2
Generate a fully resourced plan for a specified project, e.g. Gantt chart and monitor progress.
LO3
Deliver illustrated oral presentations describing project progress and overall achievements.
LO4
Design, prototype and test the project hardware and/or software (where appropriate).
LO5
Write a formal report on the project.
LO6
Understand the need for high ethical standards in the practice of engineering design, for environmental conservation and public safety.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
Analogue Electronic Systems or equivalent; Digital Electronic Systems or equivalent
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Project Brief
Each student will be assigned a project brief, which includes the
project specification & target dates
The project brief will be discussed with each student to ensure that it is clearly understood. Students may propose their own breif, the suitability of which will be assessed by the project supervisors.
Project Plan
Students will be expected to develop a detailed project plan using project planning tools. (MSProject or similar)
Design
Student will research potential solutions to the problem, compare and contrast available options: Hardware – select components,develop block diagrams, design circuits etc. Software - develop flowchart, program development etc. Students should simulate and prototype sub-circuits.
Presentation
At the end of the first semester, each student will be required to make a presentation on the progress of their project up to that point. A similar presentation will be made at the end of semester 2 in which the overall achievements will be described.
Log
Students will maintain a log of all activity throughout the period of the project.
Implementation
Electronic CAD will be used to produce a printed circuit board layout. If required software will be developed using suitable development tools (where applicable). The system will be assembled.
Test & debug
The system should be tested in order to debug the system and to ensure that it meets the agreed project specification.
Final Report
Each student is required to produce a formal project report.