Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Physics Laboratory 1 (AP1/PL1)
Module Code	PS151
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Greg Hughes Semester 2: Greg Hughes Autumn: Greg Hughes
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	10
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

The purpose of this module is to ensure that first year physics students have basic laboratory and data analysis skills to equip them for subsequent laboratory courses. In the module, the students will also learn to relate the relevant theory to the experimental manifestation of the theory or principle. The students will participate in a variety of learning activities, for example dealing with error analysis, using instrumentation, constructing simple experiments, writing laboratory reports, group project work and oral presentation.

Learning Outcomes

1. Carry out basic experimental measurements with a Vernier Callipers, Micrometer Screw Gauge, electronic multimeter and other measurement devices
2. Apply appropriate safe laboratory practices
3. Identify connections between experiment and theory for key first year physics concepts in areas such as mechanics, optics and thermal physics
4. Plot and analyse straight line graphs both manually and using excel
5. Identify sources of error in an experiment and estimate the associated uncertainty in a measured quantity
6. Plan and execute a short experimental project
7. Produce a written report and deliver a powerpoint presentation on the project work
8. Students will be aware of ethical issues in relation to plagiarism

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Group work	50	3-week project with extra time for independent research and investigations
Lab	144	6 hours per week for two semesters
Independent learning	50	Students will read the laboratory description in advance and look up the relevant theory
Total Workload: 244

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

External lectures, seminars.
As part of the Year 1 Orientation programme, students will have lectures/seminars on hot physics topics, study skills, library skills etc.

Weekly experiments.
carry out and develop investigations in physics, .e.g. verification of relationships in mechanics, construction of simple optical instruments, e.g., microscopes and telescopes and construction of simple electrical circuits..

Group project.
Carry out group project in Semester 2.

Learning activities.
These will include attendance at laboratory sessions, working with a partner to set up equipment and carry out experiments, analysis of data, report writing, project planning and presentation..

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Performance evaluation	The overall performance will be evaluated at the end of Sem 1 by interview and assessment of laboratory notebook	25%	n/a
Project	group experimental project	25%	Week 30
Report (s) (written / oral)	laboratory writeup	50%	Every Week

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 2

Indicative Reading List

H. D. Young: 0, University Physics, addison wesley (Pearson),
L.A. Bloomfield: 0, Physics Principles with Applications by D.G. Giancoli (Prentice Hall 1998)How Things Work : The Physics of Everyday Life, Wiley,

Other Resources

None

Array

Programme or List of Programmes

BSc in Applied Physics

PBM

BSc Physics with Biomedical Sciences

PHA

BSc in Physics with Astronomy

SHSA

Study Abroad (Science & Health)

SHSAO