01. Analyse, visualise and solve conceptual and mathematical problems related to nanomaterials and nanofabrication.

Activities:

Problem-solving techniques are modelled in lectures where solutions to selected problems are derived. Similar problems are in the final exam.

02. Critically review and analyse research data in an ethical manner and interpret the results with reference to the scientific literature in order to develop appropriate conclusions and convey these in an appropriate manner in a written report. Describe and explain, in appropriate written and verbal style, the findings from laboratory experiments performed by the student.

Activities:

Students prepare an individual report for each of four experiments in the style of a professional research journal article which accurately and ethically describes the experiment, its findings and draws appropriate conclusions. Students are provided with a template on which to base their report, along with graded examples of previous students' reports.

03. Design and perform experiments related to nanomaterials and nanofabrication using standard physics laboratory techniques, equipment and software which produce conclusive and accurate results.

Activities:

Students conduct, in small groups, four extended laboratory experiments of 6 hours duration each in close consultation with a staff demonstrator, who assists them in the design and conduct of the experiment.

04. Collaborate, in small groups, to complete laboratory experiments and prepare and deliver the oral component of laboratory assessment. Ethically distinguish between collaborative and individual work.

Activities:

Demonstrators assess the relative participation of each student in completing the experiment in the preparation and execution of the laboratory assessment. It is repeatedly stressed via the course materials and orally that students in the group are expected to contribute equally to these activities.

05. Describe the recent developments in the fields of nanomaterials and nanofabrication and identify areas which constitute interesting research problems. Apply research principles and methods applicable to the field of nanomaterials and nanofabrication.

Activities:

Students are provided with a simple research problem solvable by computational methods, and are expected to solve it individually, in consultation with demonstrators. The approach and results are summarised in a written report, which includes a proposal for extending the project by further work on a related interesting research problem.