Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit provides the opportunity for high achieving students to undertake a small research project in physics. Students will develop the skills of planning, record-keeping, literature search, analysis and communication necessary for a successful project. Students will work with an academic supervisor on an experimental or theoretical project, including astrophysics and astronomy, medical imaging, x-ray physics, synchrotron-based studies, quantum mechanics, resonance spectroscopies, magnetism, physics education and polymers.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will have acquired the following skills and attributes:

• planning aspects of a project and managing related timelines
• communicating effectively with a project supervisor, colleagues and technical staff
• accessing and reviewing scientific literature
• maintaining a clear record of work done
• analysing and interpreting results in terms of related physics theory
• writing appropriate scientific reports, both interim and final
• communicating by oral presentation and by a scientific poster.

Assessment

Project work - logbook, competence, planning and initiative: 40%
Written progress reports: 10%
Oral presentation and poster: 20%
Final report: 30%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor K Helmerson

Contact hours

72 hours laboratory work per semester, or equivalent

Prerequisites

12 points of level two physics at a distinction average. Students must have reached level three of their degree. Enrolment requires the School's approval.