An interdisciplinary exploration of quantum technologies and their impacts on society

Module details

  • Offered to Year 3 students in the Spring term
  • Thursdays 16:00-18:00
  • Planned delivery: On campus (South Kensington)
  • 1-term module worth 5 ECTS  
  • Available to eligible students as part of I-Explore

Got any questions?

Contact the lecturer
Jessica Wade
jessica.wade@imperial.ac.uk

Quantum technologies will drive the next major technological revolution. This module combines interdisciplinary technical knowledge with insights into the broader implications of quantum advancements. You will gain an accessible introduction to the phenomena that underpin quantum computation, imaging, and sensing, and understand the differences between classical and quantum physics. We'll review global initiatives like the UK's National Quantum Strategy, discuss ethical and regulatory considerations, and examine the challenges associated with commercialising deep technologies. By the end of the module, you will be able to discern whether reports of quantum technology represent hype or reality. You will have enhanced your skills in collaboration, public speaking and critical analysis, ready to tackle the future shaped by quantum innovation.

Please note: The information on this module description is indicative. The module may undergo minor modifications before the start of next academic year.

Accordian

Learning outcomes

By the end of this module, you will be better able to:

  1. Explain how concepts from quantum science enable a range of different technologies (e.g. computing, sensing, imaging).
  2. Describe the opportunities and applications of quantum technologies, and the size/scale of the global quantum ecosystem.
  3. Assess national and international importance of QTs for the economy, national security and wider society.
  4. Outline the challenges of realising robust and resilient quantum technologies, including any ethical implications.
  5. Reflect how your own expertise can contribute to technological development, and the interdisciplinary skills required for quantum careers.
  6. Critically compare alternate, unconventional approaches to computing and sensing, and debate whether quantum offers a technological leap or too much hype.
Indicative core content

The module will be interactive and inclusive, accommodating for a broad range of academic backgrounds and interests. You will acquire the skills and knowledge required to understand the operating mechanisms and main materials platforms that underpin quantum technologies. We will explore how quantum technologies can contribute to society and the economy.

At the beginning of the module, you will be introduced to the phenomena that enable quantum technologies. We will then explore existing applications of quantum technologies to understand their strengths and weaknesses across different contexts. We will discuss challenges in making quantum technologies practical and scalable, as well as strategies to reduce their environmental impact. For the majority of the module, you will work in a small, multidisciplinary group to explore one quantum technology, bringing your own experiences and insight into a discussion about how to make the promise of quantum technologies a reality. You will decide on the scope of your investigation and divide roles amongst yourselves, so that each of you focusses on a specific component of developing quantum technologies.

 

Learning and teaching approach

We will use a multi-modal approach to teaching. There will be weekly face-to-face, interactive sessions, including seminars and panel discussions. Content will be delivered by experts from across college and the wider UK quantum ecosystem, including specialists in physics, engineering, tech translation, entrepreneurship, industry and policy. For the group work, you will connect with students working on similar topics in different teams (e.g. electronic engineers working on quantum computing, imaging and sensing) so that you share learning on progressing quantum hardware. This will allow project groups to share best practise. 

There will be individual research to complete in your own time between sessions. This will include set learning activities and challenges, as well as independent research into relevant topics. As part of your quantum teams, you will need to communicate (asynchronously) with other students, working together on preparing material for presentations and debates. Support will be available to you both during and outside of sessions.

Assessment

Coursework: 

  • Group presentation (25%)
  • Debate (40%)
  • Reflective journal (35%)

The assessment of this module is based on both the group's working process and output as well as your individual contributions to the project and personal reflections. In this way we ensure that your individual progress and learning journey are of similar importance to the output your group produces. 

Your main assignment is to work as a group to explain how your chosen quantum technology will transform society, and describe the challenges/opportunities associated with making that reality. You will take part in a debate about whether quantum technologies will truly revolutionise society or whether the overblown expectations will fail to deliver. 

 

Key information
  • Requirements: It is compulsory to take an I-Explore module during your degree (you’ll take an I-Explore module in either your 2nd or 3rd year, depending on your department). You are expected to attend all classes and undertake approximately 105 hours of independent study in total during the module. Independent study includes for example reading and preparation for classes, researching and writing coursework assignments, project work and preparing for other assessments 
  • I-Explore modules are worth 5 ECTS credit towards your degree; to receive these you will have to pass the module. The numerical mark that you obtain will not be included in the calculation of your final degree result, but it will appear on your transcript 
  • This module is designed as an undergraduate Level 6 course 
  • This module is offered by the Department of Materials.