Detailed module information
Module information on this degree can be found below, separated by year of study.
The module information below applies for the current academic year. The academic year runs from August to July; the 'current year' switches over at the end of July.
Students select optional courses subject to rules specified in the Mechanical Engineering Student Handbook, for example at most three Design and Business courses. Please note that numbers are limited on some optional courses and selection criteria will apply.
Professional Engineering Skills 1
Module aims
This module develops a range of skills necessary for the role of the professional engineer. This includes laboratory practice in materials, thermofluids and mechatronics, report writing, use and maintenance of an accurate log book, data and error analysis including appropriate statistical techniques and an introduction to professional and ethical conduct, personal developments.
ECTS: 5
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
1.To understand the responsibility of a professional engineer to employers, customers and society including the concept of safety, risk and its assessment and the importance of acting sustainably.
2.To carry out experiments to solve realistic engineering problems including following a written procedure and using key equipment, always keeping careful, complete and systematic records.
3.To analyse data collected (applying theory to one’s own experimental measurements) and make appropriate calculations including appropriate choice of graphical representation and using appropriate methods for analysis of errors and uncertainties.
4.To write technical reports and give technical presentations to justify experimental study, and to communicate results and make concise robust conclusions.
5.To plan and record personal development and self-reflection activities including in the context of working in and contributing to diverse professional communities and as part of life-long learning.
Module syllabus
Report writing; keeping an accurate log book; data and error analysis including appropriate statistical techniques; materials, thermofluids and mechatronics laboratory work; safety induction; introduction to professional and ethical conduct, personal development, reflection and life-long learning; IMechE introduction, introduction to Imperial College Careers Service (career options for Mechanical Engineering students and session to help optimise approach to team work).
Teaching methods
There are twenty lectures (some sessions may be delivered in smaller groups), supported by technology (PowerPoint, Panapto and Blackboard). Short activities (using interactive pedagogies) will be included in the classroom setting to reinforce learning. There is an introductory laboratory based case study in term 1. There are four Mechatronics labs, spread over terms 1 and 2. Materials, Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics labs take place in term 2, with some preparatory instructional material delivered via online videos in advance of each laboratory session.
Assessments
| Assessment details | ||||
| Pass mark | ||||
| Grading method | Numeric | 40% | ||
| Assessments | ||||
| Assessment type | Assessment description | Weighting | Pass mark | Must pass? |
| Practical | Assessment of mechatronics practical skills | 15% | 40% | N |
| Coursework | Introductory laboratory based case study write up | 30% | 40% | N |
| Coursework | Log book assessment | 5% | 40% | N |
| Coursework | Materials laboratory write up | 15% | 40% | N |
| Coursework | Thermodynamics laboratory write up | 15% | 40% | N |
| Coursework | Fluid Mechanics laboratory write up | 15% | 40% | N |
| Examination | MCQ/numerical response questions | 5% | 40% | N |
| Coursework | Personal development activity | 0% | 40% | Y |