Units
Engineering Problem Solving
Unit code: ENB246
Contact hours: 4 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs
This unit introduces students to the use of computers as tools for solving engineering problems. MATLAB is introduced as a numerical computing environment with the capacity to support complex mathematics and to be programmed to solve specific engineering problems. Stand alone application development using C++ is introduced as a means of exposing students to the high and low level computer programming concepts that are necessary to the implementation of engineering solutions in hardware specific programming environments.
Availability
| Semester | Available |
|---|---|
| 2013 Semester 1 | Yes |
Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013
Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.
Rationale
Engineers are routinely required to solve generic engineering problems. While problem solving is largely a creative endeavour, there are strategies that are frequently employed in the development of computer program solutions. These programs are written in computer languages specifically developed to support the problem solving strategies. The MATLAB software environment provides a language that is widely accepted in Engineering and familiarity with developing solutions within the environment is an important skill in any Engineer's repertoire.
Aims
The aim of the unit is to provide you with a sound familiarity in the process of problem identification and specification, algorithmic design using mathematical nomenclature to solve problems, through to implementing and testing your solution in a computer language. This aim is achieved by introducing you to a range of engineering problems that can be solved efficiently using computer programs.
Objectives
On completion of this unit you should be able to:
1. Identify and clearly specify problems.
2. Use top-down design to identify an algorithmic solution to a specified problem.
3. Write a program that implements you solution.
4. Recognise the importance of verifying your solutions.
5. Use simple graphical visualization techniques as part of your solution.
6. Communicate your solution to others using good coding style.
Content
Approaches to Teaching and Learning
Teaching Mode:
Total hours per week: 4
Lecture: 2 hrs
Workshop: 2 hrs
The content and skills in the unit will be taught through a 2hr lecture and a 2hr computer based workshop each week.
Lecture outlines and audio recordings will be available online to supplement student's own notes taken during lectures.
Workshop tasks will focus on student's problem based learning with the guidance of tutors.
Assessment
Assessment will be based on demonstrated technical expertise during workshops in addition to a mid-semester test and final exam.Students will receive formative feedback on their work during workshops.
Assessment name:
Laboratory/Practical
Description:
Workshop Demonstration
Students will demonstrate their solutions to two open-ended problems (where there is no single correct answer) during the workshops throughout the semester.
Relates to objectives:
1-6
Weight:
50%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 13
Assessment name:
Examination (Theory)
Description:
Mid-semester Exam
In class exam in week 6
Relates to objectives:
1, 2 & 3
Weight:
25%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 6
Assessment name:
Examination (Theory)
Description:
Final Exam
Centrally time-tabled examination
Relates to objectives:
1-6
Weight:
25%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
End of semester
Academic Honesty
QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.
A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.
Resource materials
Type: Required Text Book
Author: Stephan J. Chapman
Title: MATLAB Programming with Applications for Engineers
Year: 2013
Type: Reference
Author: Etter D.
Title: Engineering Problem Solving with Matlab
Year: 2003
Type: Reference
Author: Magrab E, et.al.
Title: An Engineer's Guide to MATLAB
Year: 2004
Risk assessment statement
There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.
Students in this unit will undertake lectures in the traditional lecture theatres. As such, there are no extraordinary workplace health and safety issues associated with this component of the unit.
Students will be required to undertake practical workshops in the computer laboratories, under the supervision of the lecturer, tutors and technical staff of the School. The School's occupational health and safety policies and procedures will apply to these sessions.
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.
Last modified: 24-Jan-2013
