Module Catalogue 2026/27

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

To introduce students to the basic theory and concepts associated with the underpinning physics behind electrical and electronic systems and the operation of simple circuits.

Students will recognise and compute the effect of electromagnetic fields and forces.

Students will recognise and discriminate between different circuit structures and solve various associated problems (DC and AC).

To demonstrate use of these basic understandings real-world, local industrial application.

To enable the student to recognise the behaviour of simple electrical machines.

Outline Of Syllabus

Topics can include:

Basic Circuit Theory

Basic circuit conventions, laws, and rules

- Basic circuit analysis techniques (source equivalence & superposition)

- Introduction to AC Circuits

- Concept of steady state time varying signals

- Amplitude and phase calculations

- Phasor and complex notation for AC quantities


Introductory electromagnetism and electrostatics

- Magnetic fields: quantification & measurements, forces and field strength, inductance

- Electric fields: quantification & measurements, forces and potentials, capacitance



Applications of Electrical and Magnetic systems

- Recognising and operating principles of DC machines


Application of Electrical and Magnetic systems theory to applications using simulation.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes is indicated as [Cx] below.

At the end of the module, learners will be able to:

- describe the basic principles of E and B fields, and associated quantities such as flux, flux density and potential. [C1]

- recognise concepts of fields as sources of force, the use and meaning of field/flux lines in applications. [C1]

- demonstrate vector representation of fields and the interactions between magnetic and electrical fields and fluxes [C1]

- interpret directional concepts (e.g. vector-product rules) & demonstrate the role of electromagnetic fields in simple electrical machines [C1, C2]

- recall and employ the fundamental rules and concepts of electrical circuits (e.g. Ohm’s law, Kirchhoff’s laws) [C1]

- solve basic circuits thorough application of taught analysis techniques, discuss their respective limitations and appropriateness of use to given situations [C1, C2, C3]

- describe basic AC electrical quantities (e.g. amplitude, phase and frequency) through their interpretation of quantification and notation of the same (including complex notation) [C1]

- interpret concepts of ideal and non-ideal components and their representation [C1, C3]

- employ rules and concepts for electrical circuit schematic notation and polarity [C1, C3]

- distinguish the behaviour of different basic passive elements (AC & DC) including combinations thereof [C1]

- demonstrate their cognisance of the above through an exercise in interpreting a local industrial application in a practical study of that application. [C1, C2, C6]

- determine the appropriate problem solving and diagnostic tools and techniques to be used and lead the problem-solving activity to enable development and modifications/updates of products, components or systems.

- articulate clearly and succinctly a deep understanding of scientific, mathematical and engineering principles appropriate to the research, design, development or modifications/updates of products, components and/or systems.

This module meets the following Degree Apprenticeship knowledge outcomes:
K8, K9, K12

Intended Skill Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes is indicated as [Cx] below.

By the end of the module, learners will be able to:

- employ appropriate units and express numerical values of physical quantities in electromagnetism and electrical circuits. [C1]

- demonstrate recognition of appropriate orders-of-magnitude and polarity in electrical and magnetic systems through suitable analysis of the system. [C1, C2, C3]

- Sketch field line diagrams for cases including point charges, capacitors and straight wires [C1, C2]

- extract technical information from relevant sources such as diagrams, schematics and graphs [C1, C2, C3]

- interpret abstract concepts demonstrate their relevance to the engineering system understudy [C1, C3, C6]

- illustrate fundamental physical principles as the solution for complex physical systems using algebra, calculus and numerical evaluation to produce reasoned solutions [C1, C2]

- select and employ appropriate governing laws to the operation of circuits, to obtain both symbolic and numerical descriptions of relevant quantities including voltages, currents, capacitances, inductances, resistances, impedances and reactance [C1, C2, C3]

- operate relevant laboratory equipment and perform accurate experimental measurements

- examine the practical use of the techniques studied whilst employing them on a practical, real-world engineering system [C1, C2, C3, C6]

- take responsibility for developing and maintaining of own technical knowledge.

This module meets the following Degree Apprenticeship skill outcomes:
S1, S4, S12, S15

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures provide the core material of the course and give students the opportunity to query the material covered. The combination of recorded content and other non-synchronously delivered content such as digital tutorials, quizzes and discussion boards are augmented by weekly timetabled in-class activities that build upon the online content, reinforce principles and provide additional context.

The coursework component is a directed self-learning activity whereby students will actively visit an installation and gain a tangible appreciation of the theory they have learned in a real-world application.

The tutorials provide a positive environment for students to practice problem solving with support.

The lab sessions provide an opportunity to practically validate core theoretical concepts, and to gain practical skills experience.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The Semester 1 Digital Examination assesses all principles and concepts taught, and assesses knowledge and application of the Semester 1 syllabus. A single A4 sheet (two-sided) may be prepared in advance and taken into the exam as a study support.
KSBs: K8, K9, K12, S1, S4, S12, & S15
The Semester 2 Case Study assesses skills in extracting information, performing appropriate calculations, assessing information and data, and formally present findings.
KSBs: K8, K9, K12,S1, S4, S12, & S15
The formative computer assessments provide a co-ordinated and incremental set of problems that cover computational, mathematical, conceptual, and critical thinking question types. The problem-solving exercise includes example exam questions to allow students to become familiar with the assessment style. Students are able to view these as they would be shown in the actual exam. The theory element is examined first in order to focus students’ effort on the underpinning material, in the second semester this theory is put into practice in the coursework element.

General Notes

N/A