PX3316: Astrophysics Project
| School | Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy |
| Department Code | PHYSX |
| Module Code | PX3316 |
| External Subject Code | 100415 |
| Number of Credits | 20 |
| Level | L6 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Dr Bernard Richardson |
| Semester | Double Semester |
| Academic Year | 2015/6 |
Outline Description of Module
To develop investigative skills.
To provide experience of research work in astrophysics and develop the skills needed for planning, organising and executing projects.
To enhance verbal and written communications skills.
To learn to be self motivated and work independently.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
Plan, organise and conduct a research project.
Make use of the library and other facilities to undertake private study in subject areas related to the theme of the project.
Analyse critically data acquired during the course of conducting the project.
Write an extended report and give a short presentation on their work.
Appraise health and safety issues connected with their project work.
How the module will be delivered
Supervised individual project work. Marked oral and written work.
Skills that will be practised and developed
Communications skills. Investigative skills. Personal skills. Analytical skills. Ethical behaviour. They may also include some or all of the following: problem solving; experimental skills; computing skills; mathematics.
How the module will be assessed
Continuous Assessment and Reports 100%.
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Assessment | 100 | Astrophysics Project | N/A |
Syllabus content
A range of project topics are available. Projects can be practically or theoretically biased and might involve computational work. Most students work alone or in pairs, but the reporting and analysis of data is always done individually.
The project work extends over two semesters. At the end of the Autumn semester, students submit an interim report of their work and are assessed in an oral examination (viva) by their supervisor and an assessor. The full report is submitted towards the end of the Spring Semester. Students also give a conference-style presentation on their work to a group of assessors and other students.
Essential Reading and Resource List
Directed reading by project supervisor.
Background Reading and Resource List
Directed reading by project supervisor.