Module Catalogue 2022/23

CSC8701 : Model-Based Systems Engineering

  • Offered for Year: 2022/23
  • Module Leader(s): Dr Ken Pierce
  • Owning School: Computing
  • Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Semester 1 Credit Value: 10
ECTS Credits: 5.0
Pre Requisites
Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisites
Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

To introduce the concepts and principles of model-based systems engineering (MBSE), through examples such as smart cities, self-healing power grids, intelligent transport systems, renewable energy. To introduce concepts of traditional systems engineering to enable students to understand the challenges of working at the level of whole systems, rather than individual components. To introduce competencies and skills required of systems engineering and to help students assess their own skills. To introduce model-based design, including modelling paradigms, tools and analysis techniques, and how they are applied in MBSE using the SysML language.

Outline Of Syllabus

1. Principles of Systems Engineering (systems thinking; skills and competencies, professional and ethical issues)
2. Model-based techniques (pros and cons of modelling, paradigms, tools and techniques, SysML language)

Learning Outcomes

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

To be able to describe and discuss:
- systems engineering concepts
- challenges facing development of modern systems
- professional and ethical issues associated with systems engineering
- a range of modelling paradigms, tools and analysis techniques

Intended Skill Outcomes

The ability to
- apply systems engineering to a range of systems
- select and apply appropriate model-based techniques (SysML, formal specification) to
specify systems
- critically evaluate a range of sources
- give constructive feedback to colleagues

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities
Category Activity Number Length Student Hours Comment
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion110:0010:00Modelling of case study
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture62:0012:00Lecture (Present-in-Person)
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion130:0030:00Completion of model and writing report
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesPractical31:003:00Weekly practicals (Present-in-Person)
Guided Independent StudyDirected research and reading110:0010:00Paper review
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesWorkshops31:003:00Report writing clinics (Present-in-Person)
Structured Guided LearningStructured non-synchronous discussion60:303:00Videos including interviews with industry experts (Asynchronous)
Guided Independent StudyIndependent study120:0020:00General background reading, revision of teaching materials. Can be done outside of the block.
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesModule talk31:003:00Weekly seminars (Present-in-Person)
Guided Independent StudyOnline Discussion16:006:00Peer feedback on paper review (Asynchronous)
Total100:00
Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lecture materials will cover core concepts and develop knowledge in systems engineering, model-based design and professional issues. Experience with model-based techniques will be provided by guided reading and tool tutorials. Weekly seminars Q&As will support students in their studies and reinforce skills and knowledge, while online discussion will help students learn from each other and practice giving and receiving constructive feedback.
General background reading and revision of materials can be done outside of the block.

Reading Lists

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Other Assessment
Description Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Report1M100Application of SysML to a Case Study with Report (2000 words)
Formative Assessments
Description Semester When Set Comment
Case study1MApplication of SySML to a Case Study
Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The application of SysML to a case study and accompanying report demonstrates that the students can apply both systems thinking and model-based design techniques to a case study. The formative component will allow them to submit a first draft of their SysML model for formative feedback.

Timetable

Past Exam Papers

General Notes

N/A

Disclaimer: The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2022/23 academic year. In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described. Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2023/24 entry will be published here in early-April 2023. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.