Outline:

In this module, students will conduct a series of physics experiments and observations. These practicals will involve more complex instrumentation than found in the first-year modules. For each experiment a semi-prescriptive script provides a brief, as well as practical instructions and a link to active UCL research. Students are required to carry out a risk assessment, establish aims and objectives, and a time plan for their own practical work. They will also complete problem sheets on data and statistical analysis. Students will keep a detailed record of their practical work in a contemporaneous manner. These notebooks are either assessed directly, or used by students to prepare a short report in the style of a short scientific journal.

Aims:

The aim of the course is to develop level-5 practical and instrumentational physics skills, with emphasis on appropriate planning, record keeping, data acquisition and analysis, interpretation of experimental findings, comparison with accepted values where appropriate and reporting.

Teaching and Learning Methodology:

This module is delivered via practice and observation. Students are provided with less prescriptive scripts than in first year. A team of demonstrators from the department’s academic staff, technicians, teaching staff, research staff and research students provides support. Students should make an initial attempt to overcome difficulties as they arise before consulting with a demonstrator. Students will keep a full clear and contemporaneous account of their thoughts, actions and observations. Notebooks will be assessed directly and used to prepare for a formal report.

Self-study: In addition to timetabled hours it is expected that you engage in self-study in order to master the material. This can take the form of studying the material, practicing problem questions, preparing for practical sessions, writing up reports and further reading in textbooks and online.

A short series of lectures will support learning in statistical and data analysis of experiments, good laboratory practice and formal reports.