School of Engineering and Physical Sciences Undergraduate Programme Handbook for

Physics – Year 3 2014 - 15

PART A – SCHOOL INFORMATION

1 SUMMARY OF KEY INFORMATION

2 WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

3 GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE SCHOOL/INSTITUTE

4 KEY STAFF AND OFFICE LOCATIONS

5 PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

6 PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND DELIVERY

PART B – UNIVERSITY INFORMATION

B1 UNIVERSITY POLICY AND GUIDANCE

B2 ORDINANCES AND REGULATIONS

B3 QUICK FINDER GUIDE TO ACADEMIC SUPPORT SERVICES

B4 QUICK FINDER GUIDE TO STUDENT ADMINISTRATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES

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PART A – SCHOOL INFORMATION

1 Summary of Key Information

KEY CONTACTS IN PHYSICS Room No Programme Director of Studies Dr W N MacPherson DB1.53 Year Coordinator (year 3) Professor Mo Taghizadeh DB 1.28 Senior Administration Assistant, Teaching and Learning Support:

Ms. Emma Williams, EPS Student Support Office JN1.09

SIGNIFICANT DATES IN THE ACADEMIC YEAR

Session 1 : 15th September 2014 to 5th December 2014

Session 2 : 12th January 2015 to 2nd April 2015

Session 3 : 27th April 2015 to 22nd May 2015

LINKS TO FURTHER INFORMATION/SERVICES

University Website : www.hw.ac.uk

You can also access much of the material of this handbook on the internet at the Department Web site: http://internal.eps.hw.ac.uk/subjects/physics/handbooks.htm The Year 3 Coordinator in Physics is Professor Mo Taghizadeh, but enquiries should first be directed to your mentor or to Emma Williams in the EPS Student Support Office, JN1.09, telephone number 0131 451 3025. General enquiries to 0131 451 4011, email address enquiries@eps.hw.ac.uk.

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2 Welcome and Introduction

2.1 Welcome from the Principal of Heriot-Watt University

I am delighted to welcome you as a student of Heriot-Watt University!

Heriot-Watt University has a well earned reputation as Scotland's most international and outward-looking University. With three campuses in Scotland (attended by a high percentage of students from across the world), a new Campus in Dubai, a new Campus in Malaysia and Learning Partner institutions across the world, we have a vibrant and diverse learning culture which is unique and unmatched by other universities in the United Kingdom. We are keen to give our students the opportunity to develop an international dimension to their studies which will enhance their opportunities for future growth. Students at all our campus locations are an important part of our global community and I very much hope you enjoy your time with us. Professor Steve Chapman Principal and Vice-Chancellor

3 General Information about the School/Institute The aim of this part of the programme handbook is to provide a “user friendly” summary of University and Departmental regulations as well as general information and advice. Whilst this is written in the spirit of the regulations you should note that the University regulations in the official University publications take precedence over this guide. The various subject disciplines of the University are grouped into “Schools”. Physics is part of the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences along with Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Combined Studies. This is an important year since it counts towards your final degree mark for both BSc and MPhys programmes. Your time management and study techniques are particularly important and these notes are intended to help you make this a successful and enjoyable year. THE COURSE SYSTEM AND PHYSICS DEGREES Courses A credit-based course system is the common structure for all undergraduate degree programmes offered by this University. This system has a number of advantages for students. Each course is intended to require the same student effort and be manageable within 150 hours of effort for a 15-credit course. These hours include lectures, tutorials, writing up notes, revision and assessment.

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In each semester, you take 4 courses. There are two semesters in the year and so you will take 8 courses. This corresponds approximately to a 40 hour week during the semester, which should give you adequate time to take part in the many extra-curricular activities available to you and which are an important part of university life. In each year, most of your courses will be assessed at the end of each semester by a combination of coursework taken during the course and written examination. This enables a check on your progress to be made throughout the year and avoids a large set of examinations at the end of the year. Exceptions to assessment at the end of the semester are the project courses in years 4 and 5, laboratory work and some courses delivered by other disciplines. You should make sure you know how the assessment of course will be carried out and what is expected of students taking the course. This information will usually be given to you by the lecturer at the start of a course. The contributions of coursework and examination to the course mark vary from course to course. Full details are given in the course syllabuses. Course Codes It is helpful to understand the way course codes are devised. The first letter identifies the School (e.g. B for Engineering and Physical Sciences, F for Maths and Computing, D for Built Environment, etc.) The digit following the letter identifies the subject discipline. (e.g. B2 for Physics, B1 for Chemistry 1, F1 for Maths, etc). The next digit is the last digit of the SCQF level of the course. (SCQF stands for the Scottish Credits and Qualifications Framework). The following two letters identify the topic and the last digit (sometimes omitted) represents the semester, e.g. B27MW1 is a Physics course at level 7 and is given in the first semester. SCQF levels 7 to 11 correspond to years 1 to 5 respectively. Thus, as another example, course B20PS1 is a Physics course at level 10 given in semester 1. Assessment Courses, aside from lab work, are usually assessed by examination at the end of each semester though there may be coursework during the semester. Details are given in the course syllabuses. The number of courses required for various degrees and the various rules for progression from one year to the next are given elsewhere in this handbook. If you do not gain a pass in a course, you have one resit opportunity, except in years 4 and 5, where no resits are available. When resits are taken, this will be in the August diet of exams. If the course counts towards your degree, the mark from your first attempt will be used unless there are special circumstances (e.g. documented medical reasons for a missed or poor first attempt).

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General Information Personal Mentors Your personal mentor is a member of the permanent Academic Staff and is assigned to you when you join the department. Usually, you will keep the same mentor throughout your studies but it is not a problem if you wish to change. Your mentor will normally be the first person to contact if you have any questions about your studies. In years 3 and later, there are no longer any weekly, small-group tutorials but you should make sure to visit your mentor at least once each semester. For the Department to contact you: Our main method of contacting you will be by e-mail. All students in the Physics department have an e-mail address, which should be checked on a daily basis. There are also the student mail boxes for individual items and the student notice boards for general information. You will be shown the location of the mail boxes and notice boards on your introductory tour of the department. All internal and incoming mail will be put in your mailbox, which you should check frequently. If there is a very urgent need for a telephone message to reach you we will make every effort to contact you immediately. Student Staff Liaison Committee Although much of the flow of information between students and staff in the Department is on an informal or individual basis, there is also a formally constituted committee. This committee consists of two student representatives from each of the undergraduate years together with postgraduate representatives and two staff. Meetings are usually held once every semester. All matters are open for discussion and this committee provides a valuable forum for the exchange of views and information for both staff and students. Lectures, Laboratories and Tutorials Lectures start and finish at 15 minutes past the hour and last for 50 minutes so that students can change rooms if necessary for the start of the next lecture. Lectures consist mainly of listening and making notes on the subject being taught. In many cases lecturers will provide teaching materials and notes which you will need to study and annotate during lectures. Lecturers welcome questions. You may be reluctant to ask a question in a large class but, if you are and you need to clarify some point, see the lecturer at the end of the lecture and/or make an appointment for a mutually convenient time. Most courses have class tutorials, supported by staff or postgraduate students, for working on problems at your own pace. Laboratory work, both experimental and computing, is a very important part of your course. In the laboratory you will develop practical skills which are an important part of the training of a physicist. You will also learn the art of scientific report writing − you

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must be able to communicate your experimental methods and your results effectively. Experimental work is time consuming, and the skills needed also take time to develop, but it is these skills which make well-trained physicists such useful employees! Absences from Classes If you are absent from classes for any reason the Department must be notified. Absences for up to four working days (this excludes Saturday and Sunday) are notified on a self-certification form available from the Undergraduate Office. Absences over four working days require a medical certificate. If you miss an examination your absence must be supported by a medical certificate even if you are only absent for one day. It is important to notify the department of all absences or of any special circumstances which may affect your studies at the time they occur or as soon after as is practicable. In this case, due consideration can be given to you when the Exam Boards meet to consider your results. Do not wait until you have done badly in an examination before telling us you have previously been ill or have had some special problem affecting your work as it will be too late for it to be considered. If you do have a problem you should see your mentor or year coordinator. For more information on mitigating circumstances, the policy is available at http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-policy.pdf and an application form at http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-form.doc Virtual Learning Environment – “Vision” Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) are systems that support a range of learning contexts, ranging from conventional, classroom implementation to off-line, distance learning and online learning. The University’s VLE is called Vision and is based on a commercial software package called Blackboard. All courses are required to have a minimum presence on the VLE and you may be required to access information or complete and submit on-line assignments for courses on the VLE. You are automatically registered for a VLE course based on the courses that you registered for at the start of the year (or any changes made after registration). The VLE can be accessed from any computer with internet access. Its address is http://vision.hw.ac.uk Personal belongings There are small metal lockers throughout the department in which you may keep personal belongings. You should supply your own padlock for your locker, and the locker must be cleared at the end of each session i.e. at the end of the academic year (i.e. end of semester 2). As in other Universities, the University cannot accept any responsibility for your personal belongings although the locker should give a good measure of security.

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Students with Special Needs If you require any special help in order to study effectively, you can discuss this with your mentor or with the University’s Student Welfare Service. We are happy to provide the support needed for each student to realise their academic potential.

Race Equality Policy The University is committed to the elimination of unlawful racial discrimination; and the promotion of equality of opportunity and good relations between persons of different racial groups. No religious, racial or political test shall be imposed by the University on any person in order to entitle him or her to be admitted as a Member, Professor, Teacher or Student of the University, or to hold office therein, or to graduate thereat, or to hold any advantage of privilege thereof.

Equal Opportunities Policy Heriot Watt University is committed to equal opportunities for all, irrespective of sex, colour ethnic origin, disability, marital status, religious or political beliefs, trade union membership, sexual orientation or other irrelevant distinction.

Information Services Your “New Students Guide” provides a summary of the University’s Information Services. More information is available on the Information Services website at http://www.hw.ac.uk/is/. For computing, there are several computer labs throughout the University, ranging in size from 10 to 80 machines. These labs are centrally timetabled and can be used by all students subject to availability. The computers are networked and you can access your files from any computer. Depending on the layout of the lab, and at the discretion of the academic in charge, it may be possible for students to use these labs even if there is a class in progress. Wireless Network Wireless connectivity is widely available throughout the University.

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Studying During a Programme Physics and Mathematics need a steady effort on your part to achieve a good understanding. Studying is a discipline for which each individual has to find what is right for them and so the comments here are guidelines to help you formulate your own scheme which suits you, but the emphasis is on steady work throughout the semester. Consider the time you will need to go over your notes and consolidate your most recent lectures, and note carefully any deadlines for submitting continuous assessment exercises. Make a plan that is realistic − and try to keep to it. Remember you are an individual. Everyone has a different pattern of working, relaxing, sleeping, etc.. Do not fall into the trap of thinking that just because your friend can spend every night in the Sports Hall, visit the Student Union until late and apparently sail through their studies that you can do exactly the same. Your friend may be one of the few amongst us who genuinely needs only five hours sleep a night. You probably aren’t. If you are ill, or have fallen behind with your work for some other reason, it is important for you to discuss the problem with your mentor, the class lecturer, or your year coordinator. Discussing a problem will often help you to see the solution, and we will try to advise and help you to catch up with your work. One thing you should never do is think that a massive effort on your part over a few evenings burning the midnight oil will see everything all right − it just does not work that way. A regular work pattern throughout the semester combined with a final revision is generally the best way to proceed. At exam time There will always be a revision period of at least a week before the exam. If you make full use of these periods, they can be most useful − do not use them as “free” weeks. If you have specific issues with aspects of the course do not hesitate to ask the relevant lecturer for help. It is usually best to form a strategy for dealing with exams. Go back over your notes and make a list of the main topics, noting those to which you feel you need to give more attention to improve your understanding. Go over these topics and understand the significance of each then use problems to practise applying your knowledge. Do not assume that simply reading through your notes will be sufficient. A very useful way to revise is to do the tutorial questions again − without looking at the solutions. Also it is very important to try past examination papers − making sure however that there has not been a change in syllabus or emphasis since a previous year. You should not assume that exam questions will be similar to those set in previous years. Any material delivered in the course may be examined. The exam timetable is always published in advance on the University website. Make sure you write down the time and place of each of your exams − don’t rely on your

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memory or what someone else tells you. Find out where the exam room is before the day of the exam. IF BY MISTAKE YOU MISS AN EXAM − OR CANNOT ARRIVE ON TIME DUE TO SOME MISHAP − IT IS IMPERATIVE TO CONTACT THE EPS STUDENT SUPPORT OFFICE IMMEDIATELY. Make sure you get to the exam in the right frame of mind. Some people find the excited chatter of the crowd waiting to go into the examination room or hall makes them nervous. You do not have to be there − wait at some distance from the main crowd. On the other hand make sure you are in time and do not have a frantic rush to get there. In the exam room, sit down, get yourself settled and take time to read through the exam paper. It can be useful to mark the questions you think you can attempt. Go back over these questions and read the questions carefully so that you are sure you understand what is being asked for. Never rush in and start writing an answer to a question you think you know − very often you will misread the question under the pressure you are putting on yourself. Make sure you know the format of the exam beforehand and so know the time available for each question. Do not exceed this time, but you can go over the question again if there is time when you have done the other questions. Do not make the mistake of trying to spend a long time on one question just to get good marks on that question. Outline answers or brief notes may be given marks even if you do not have time to complete your full answer. Every year one or two students find themselves in a situation where they have special needs at exam time. This can be for many reasons, for example, a sprained wrist can make writing difficult so you will need extra time, or you could have a bad attack of hay-fever and do not want to disrupt the other students. In any such case contact the EPS Student Support Office and suitable arrangements can usually be made for you to take the exam in a separate room.

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4 Key staff and office locations Dr E Abraham DB 2.08 Dr E Andersson DB 1.26 Dr D Beddard DB 1.32 Dr F Biancalana DB 2.05 Professor G S Buller DB 1.54 Dr S Chen DB 1.31 Professor R Duncan DB 1.51A Dr P Dalgarno DB 1.11 Professor D Esser EM G.03 Professor D Faccio DB 1.12 Professor I Galbraith DB 2.09 Professor B Gerardot DB 2.11 Professor D P Hand DB 3.07 Dr M Hartmann DB 1.29 Professor M Jonson DB 2.06 Professor A K Kar DB 2.13 Dr J Leach DB 1.29 Dr Weiping Lu DB 2.12 Dr W N MacPherson EM G.05 Dr P Ohberg DB 2.04 Dr K Prior DB 2.45 Dr L Paterson DB 1.32 Professor D T Reid DB 1.34 Dr V Sboros JN 2.14 Professor M R Taghizadeh DB 1.28 Dr R R Thomson DB 1.33 Dr D Townsend DB 1.27 Dr G Whyte DB G.44 Further staff information is available at http://www.eps.hw.ac.uk/teaching/physics-staff.htm The EPS Support Office is located in JN1.09 This is probably the best place to come for advice on timetables, exams, course structures etc. Please also feel free to call in and discuss any difficulties you are having with the courses etc − or if your personal mentor is not available. Programme Director of Studies Dr Bill MacPherson Year 3 Co-ordinator Professor Mo

Taghizadeh Senior Administration Assistant Ms Emma Williams,

EPS Student Support Office, JN 1.09

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5 Programme Overview Heriot-Watt University reserves the right to update materials from time to time and will ensure that advance notification concerning changes to materials is provided to students on the relevant section of the University website. It is the responsibility of students to check the website, particularly if they are returning to studies after a period during which their studies have been in abeyance.

Degrees Awarded by the Department The types of undergraduate degrees offered by the Department are the “Integrated Undergraduate Masters” (MPhys) and the Bachelor Degree (BSc), which may be awarded without Honours (BSc Ordinary degree) or with Honours. The MPhys and BSc with Honours are classified, i.e. they are awarded as first, upper second, lower second and third class degrees. MPhys and BSc Honours degrees are offered in the following programmes: Physics Mathematical Physics Engineering Physics Chemical Physics Nanoscience Physics with Energy Science and Technology Physics with Electronic Engineering Physics with Environmental Science (BSc only) The BSc Ordinary degree is offered by the department as a BSc in “Physics”. Typically students entering the University with good Highers will complete an MPhys in 5 years, a BSc Honours in 4 years and an Ordinary degree in 3 years. Students with good Advanced Highers/A levels in Physics and Maths can enter at second level and can expect to complete the degree in one year less than the corresponding figure given above. The detailed programme structures are shown elsewhere in this handbook. The classification of the BSc honours degree (i.e. 1st, 2.1, etc..) is based on the marks obtained for the courses in the third and fourth years and, for the MPhys degree, on marks obtained in the third, fourth and fifth years. Heriot-Watt University reserves the right to update materials from time to time and will ensure that advance notification concerning changes to materials is provided to students on the relevant section of the University website. It is the responsibility of students to check the website, particularly if they are returning to studies after a period during which their studies have been in abeyance.

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Which programme? We provide a range of programmes, allowing specialisation in areas such as mathematics, engineering or chemistry. If you are interested in a specialisation, it is advisable to start your studies on that specialist programme since it is easier subsequently to change to “Physics” rather than change from Physics to a specialisation. MPhys degrees are a year longer than the BSc and are intended for students with an interest in research. You can change between BSc and MPhys degrees at least until the end of year 3 though the change to MPhys, or staying on it, is conditional on maintaining a year average of 60% or greater (see the section on CAPS). Programme Coordinators Each of our degree programmes has a Programme Coordinator who is responsible for all aspects of the programme including curriculum design. UCAS code BSc/MPhys

Programme title Programme Coordinator

F300/F302

Physics

Prof M R Taghizadeh

F314/F311 Engineering Physics Dr W N MacPherson F390/391 Physics with Energy Science &

Technology Dr W N MacPherson

CF10/FC01 Nanoscience Prof D T Reid F344/F340 Mathematical Physics Dr P Ohberg F320/F322 Chemical Physics Dr D Townsend F3H6/F3HP Physics with Electronic Engineering Prof G Buller F3F9 Physics with Environmental Science Dr D Townsend Common Assessment & Progression System (CAPS) The University provides full documentation about the way grades are assigned to courses and about the rules for progression from one year to another. The following is a brief guide to some of the main points. Grades: You will receive one of the following grades for each course: A, B, C, D, E or F. The normal minimum grade for a pass in a continuing subject is D. A grade of E means you receive the full 15 credit points for the course but you cannot study other courses for

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which that course is a pre-requisite. You will also be required to resit this course by the Department to meet the progression rules. F is a fail, A to D represent levels of pass. In the courses involving lab work, each course usually comprises two distinct parts, similarly weighted in terms of marks. These parts are the exam/coursework and the lab work. If your performance falls below 40% in either part of the course, your course grade will be limited to an E grade at best and you will be required to resit all or part of the course. Resitting a course: If you do not pass a course at the first attempt, you are normally entitled to one further attempt, which is usually taken in August in the resit diet of assessment. If it is a pre-requisite for later courses or needed for progression to the next year of the programme, it will certainly be necessary to resit in August. You may normally only resit one laboratory-based course at a time. This is due to the time needed to carry out experimental work, since each resit will take several days. Unless special circumstances apply, the mark obtained at the first attempt counts towards your degree. The resit is to achieve progression. Progression requirements To progress from year 3 to year 4 normally requires: a) Grade D or above in all courses. b) A minimum of 330 credit points. c) For MPhys, an average mark for the year, at the first attempt, of at least 60% across all courses and also across the taught courses. Award requirements It should be noted that in order to gain an Ordinary Degree you need to accumulate 360 credits, i.e. pass all 24 courses in years 1, 2 and 3. To gain a BSc Honours degree you require 480 credits and, for an MPhys Honours degree, you require 600 credits. The department may, at its discretion, award discretionary credits for up to two courses though these are normally only applied in later years, if at all, when resits are not available.

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6 Programme Structure and Delivery The University operates a Common Assessment and Progression System (CAPS) which specifies minimum progression requirements. Schools have the option to apply progression requirements that are above the minimum University requirement and have been approved by the Studies Committees. Students should refer to the programme specific information on progression requirements in section 5.

Year 1 Programme Structures For “Physics” and “Engineering Physics” Semester 1 B29CA1 Physical Mathematics 1 B29EM1 Electromagnetism B29DO1 Dynamics and Optics B29XM1 Experimental Lab and programming Skills Semester 2 B29CB2 Physical Mathematics 2 B29QS2 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy B29SS2 Solid State Physics B29PI2 Applied Physics For “Energy Science & Technology” Semester 1 B29CA1 Physical Mathematics 1 B29EM1 Electromagnetism B29DO1 Dynamics and Optics G10UG Petroleum Engineering Semester 2 B29CB2 Physical Mathematics 2 B29QS2 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy B29SS2 Solid Astate Physics B29PI2 Applied Physics For “Mathematical Physics” Semester 1 F19MV1 Vector Analysis B29EM1 Electromagnetism B29DO1 Dynamics and Optics B29XM1 Experimental Lab and programming Skills Semester 2 F19MC2 Complex Analysis F19MO2 Ordinary Differential Equations B29QS2 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy B29SS2 Solid State Physics

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For “Chemical Physics” Semester 1 B29CA1 Physical Mathematics 1 B29EM1 Electromagnetism B29DO1 Dynamics and Optics B38EB1 Circuits and Analysis Semester 2 B29CB2 Physical Mathematics 2 B29QS2 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy B29SS2 Solid State Physics B29PI2 Applied Physics For “Nanoscience” Semester 1 B29CA1 Physical Mathematics 1 B29EM1 Electromagnetism B29DO1 Dynamics and Optics B19MA1 Chemistry of Materials Semester 2 B29CB2 Physical Mathematics 2 B29QS2 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy B29SS2 Solid State Physics B29PI2 Applied Physics For “Physics with Electronic Engineering” Semester 1 B29CA1 Physical Mathematics 1 B29EM1 Electromagnetism B29DO1 Dynamics and Optics B29XM1 Experimental Lab and programming Skills Semester 2 B29CB2 Physical Mathematics 2 B29QS2 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy B29SS2 Solid State Physics B39EE2 Analogue Electronics For “Physics with Environmental Science” Semester 1 B29CA1 Physical Mathematics 1 B29EM1 Electromagnetism B29DO1 Dynamics and Optics B29XM1 Experimental Lab and programming Skills

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Semester 2 B29CB2 Physical Mathematics 2 B29QS2 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy B29SS2 Solid State Physics B59ES2 Energy Studies

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SYLLABUSES FOR LEVEL THREE B29CA1 Physical Mathematics 1 Syllabus Revision of Vector Algebra, Vector Geometry and Partial Derivatives Gradient, Divergence, Curl and Laplacian. Expansion Formulae and vector Operation Identities Lines, Surfaces and Volumes: Differentiation and Integration of vector functions of one parameter. Line Integrals, Surface Integrals and Double Integration Green’s and Stokes’ Theorems. The Divergence Theorem Volume Integrales in Cartesian and Polar Coordinates Linear ordinary differential equestions and modelling The delta function Fourier series in space and time Lecturer: Dr W Lu, Dr S Chen Recommended Texts: Mathematics for Physics – M M Woolfson & M S Woolfson,

Publisher - Oxford Mathematical Methods for Physicists, 5th Edition – Arfken & Weber, Publisher - Harcourt

Assessment: Examination 70% Coursework 30%

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B29EM1 Electromagnetism Syllabus Electromagnetism Revision of prior E&M knowledge Electrostatics, electrical polarisation, dielectric materials and link between E & D Magnetostatics, magnetization, magnetic materials and link between B and H. Ampere’s and Faraday’s laws; vector properties of E and H; integral relations between fields and charge or current distributions Gauss’ theorem. Time varying fields; self and mutual inductance; displacement current. Vector calculus. Maxwell’s equations using grad, div and curl. Derivation of wave equation in free space (cartesian coordinates). Poynting's factor and transport of energy; impedance of free space and materials. EM wave incident on interface between dielectric media. Snell’s law, Fresnel equations, Brewster angle; total internal reflection, evanescent field. EM wave incident on interface between a dielectric and a good conductor; skin depth Polarisation: Linear polarisation. Circular polarisation. Elliptical polarisation. Birefringence. Polarisers and waveplates. Lecturers: Dr W N MacPherson Recommended Text: Div, grad, curl and all that – M Schey (4th Edition) – Publisher: W.W. Norton USBN 978-0-393-92516-6 Optics, - E Hecht – Pearson Education Publisher

Introduction to Electrodynamics – D J Griffiths – Publisher: Pearson Education

Electromagnetism – I S Grant & W R Phillips – Publisher: Wiley Blackwell

Assessment: Examination 70% Coursework 30%

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B29DO1 Dynamics and Optics Syllabus Dynamics Statistics (revision) Simple dynamics problems using Newton’s second law (revision) Simple harmonic motion (revision) Damped oscillators Driven oscillators and resonance Coupled oscillators and normal modes Kinetic energy, potential energy, work and momentum (revision) Small oscillations Impulse momentum Variable mass problems Collisions in the laboratory and centre-of-mass frames Induction to Lagrangian mechanics The effective potential and trajectory motion under a central force Kepler’s laws Particle scattering and the impact parameter Optics Geometric optics: Lenses and mirrors; thin lens equation; combinations of lenses; thick lenses and principal planes, aberrations. Examples of imaging systems . Lecturers: Dr E Abraham, Dr D Townsend Recommended Texts: Introduction to Classical Mechanics – D Morin, Assessment: Examination 70% Coursework 30%

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B29XM1 Experimental Lab and Programming Skills Syllabus Students on the Mathematical Physics programme will have a reduced amount of experimental work and an increased emphasis on mathemtical or computer-based assignments. For laboratory work: Practical work in the Physics laboratory Report writing and the keeping of laboratory notebooks Health and Safety issues pertaining to laboratory practice (including laser safety issues) Research methodologies (use of hard copy and internet search facilities) Practical computing: developing the use of the software programs Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Optical Design Packages Drawing and analysis of graphs Reflective practice; explanation of work and end of term report writing For programming skills Programming concepts, structure and applications Variables, looping constructs and conditional statements. Solving problems by formulating a programmatic approach and developing programmes to solve the problems Lecturer:Experimental Laboratory - Professor M R Taghizadeh, Dr D Townsend,Dr A

Waddie Programming Skills – Prof D Faccio Recommended Text: Matlab contains a comprehensive help facility but a useful

introduction to Matlab is: “Getting Started with Matlab” by Rudra Pratap (OUP)

Assessment: 100% Continuous Assessment

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B29PI2 Applied Physics Syllabus Practical work in the Physics laboratory Report writing and the keeping of laboratory notebooks Health and Safety issues pertaining to laboratory practice (including laser safety issues) Research methodologies (use of hard copy and internet search facilities) Practical computing: developing the use of the software programs Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Optical Design Packages Drawing and analysis of graphs Reflective practice; explanation of work and end of term report writing Information retrieval; how to access relevant scientific information Digital and Analogue electronic circuits Analogue components Digital Logic Common types of instrumentation and their characteristics Lecturer: Dr D Beddard and Dr W MacPherson (Electronics) Professor M R Taghizadeh, Dr J Leach, Dr A Waddie (Lab) Recommended Text:

For electronics: “Electronics – A Systems Approach” by Neil Storey, (Addison Wesley)

Assessment: Examination 35% Continuous Assessment 15% Laboratory Work 50%

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B29CB2 Physical Mathematics 2 Syllabus Introduction: Mathematical prerequisites, areas of theoretical physics, partial differential equations (PDEs) and ordinary differential equations (ODEs) of interest, dimensional analysis, graphing The Classical Harmonic Oscillator: General solution of the driven, damped classical harmonic oscillator, particular solution in real and complex forms, power loss Fourier Transforms: Definitions, orthogonality, the delta-function, gausian pulses, uncertainty principle The Convolution Theorem Partial Differential Equations: Examples, separation of variables, boundary and initial conditions, the finite string, the infinite string, optical cavity, the Schrödinger equation, the 3-dimensional quantum mechanical harmonic oscillator Spherical Symmetry: The Schrödinger equation for a hydrogen atom, spherical polar coordinates, solution of the angular part of Schrödinger equation for a central force potential, spherical harmonic functions, degenerate eigenfunctions, orthogonality. Lecturer: Dr F Biancalana, Dr E Abraham Assessment: Examination 70% Coursework 30%

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B29QS2 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy Syllabus Quantum Theory Wave vs. particle properties Schrödinger equation Free and confined particles Expectation values and observables Double slit experiment and interpretation of quantum mechanics Tunnelling The harmonic oscillator The rigid rotor and angular momentum The hydrogen atom. Entanglement The formalism of quantum mechanics: state vectors, Hilbert space and the density matrix. Quantum information processing: the two-level system and the qubit. Spectroscopy: Common spectroscopic units of energy & notation Multi-electron atoms Angular momentum coupling Selection rules Atomic spectroscopy Timescales of atomic and molecular motion Rotational & vibrational spectroscopy of molecules Linear combinations of atomic orbitals & chemical bonding Introduction to molecular electronic spectroscopy Factors influencing spectral lines shapes & intensities Lecturer: Dr P Ohberg, Dr D Townsend Recommended Texts: Quantum Physics Notes – J D Cresser, Publisher –

Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia (These notes are going to be available on Vision)

Modern Spectroscopy – J M Hollas Assessment: Examination 70% Coursework 30%

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B29SS2 Solid State Physics Syllabus Crystal Structures Periodicity and lattices Structure of crystals (unit cells, close packed structures, directions and planes, Miller indices) Simple X-ray diffraction, receiprocal space Defects and dislocations in crystals Elasticity and thermal expansion Bonding in crystals (van der Waals, ionic, covalent, metallic) Tight binding model Vibrations in Crystals Lattice vibrations (phonons) thermal properties, Debye specific heat Electronic properties of metals

Free electron theory of metals, density of states, Fermi-dirac distribution, electronic specific heat

Band theory and Semiconductors Semiconductors and energy bands – Brillouin zones, energy bands, Fermi level

Electrical and optical behaviour of semiconductors – energy gap, optical absorption, doping, Hall effect Semiconductor devices (qualitative models of p-n junction, light emitting diode, field effect transistor)

Magnetism and superconductivity Magnetic behaviour in metals: weak magnetism, long range magnetic ordering Magnetic devices (e.g. magnetic memory, spintronics) Superconductivity: Meissmer effect. London two fluid model. BCS theory Superconducting materials and devices Lecturer: Professor I Galbraith, Dr S Chen Recommended Texts: Introduction to Solid State Physics - C Kittel, Publisher – John

Wiley The Solid State – HM Rosenberg, Publisher – Oxford Uni. Press

Solid State Physics – P Hoffman, Publisher – Wiley Crystals and Crystal Structures – R Tiley, Publisher - Wiley Assessment: Examination 70% Coursework 30%

24

PART B – UNIVERSITY INFORMATION The Academic Registry is responsible for producing Part B of the handbook to provide information and assistance on University policies and support services. It is important to read through Part A of the Handbook which provides more specific information on the requirements of your particular programme of study. Students should contact the appropriate School/Institute in the first instance for any academic query or assistance. Please note that the following sections are standard sources of information provided to all students. However, certain aspects are programme-specific and students should refer to Part A where directed. B1. UNIVERSITY POLICY AND GUIDANCE The University publishes many policies and reference information on its website that may be of use and of interest to students through the programme of their studies at Heriot-Watt University

Wherever practicable, University policy is designed to include all members of the University’s community, both within and out with the main campus environments. Important information for students is contained in the Student Learning Code of Practice. This document is attached in Appendix A. Policies of specific interest and relevance to students can be accessed via: http://www1.hw.ac.uk/committees/ltb/ltb-policies.htm B2. ORDINANCES AND REGULATIONS Heriot-Watt University has a detailed set of rules which governs the operation and management of University business. These are referred to as Ordinances and these Ordinances are set by the Court, which is the governing body of the University. The Ordinances provide a regulatory framework for corporate governance, The University Ordinances are supported by University Regulations which provide a regulatory framework for the governance of academic-related matters which Staff and Students must adhere to for all academic matters. There are a number of policies and procedures that underpin the Ordinances and Regulations. The following section on Academic Support Services often refers to Ordinances and Regulations. These links will provide you with information and guidance on all matters relating to your academic life. A full list of Ordinances and Regulations are available at the following weblink: http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/

25

B3. QUICK FINDER GUIDE TO ACADEMIC SUPPORT SERVICES 1. Academic Support 1.1 Mentoring http://www.hw.ac.uk/quality/studentsupport.htm

and http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/enrolment.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on Mentoring.

1.2

Professional Development Planning

http://www.hw.ac.uk/careers/pdp/index.php Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on Professional Development Planning.

1.3 Student Feedback

http://www.HWUnion.com Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on Student Feedback.

2. Enrolment, Attendance and Periods of Study 2.1

Attendance/ Absence from the University

Policy on Student Attendance: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/studentattendancepolicy.pdf Withdrawal from University: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/withdrawalprocedures.pdf http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 1 – General Regulation, paragraph 6 Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 10

2.2

Accreditation of Prior Learning

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 46 – Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

2.3

Amendment to Registration

Application Form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/amendmenttoregistration.doc

2.4 Change of Address

Please login to Student Self Service www.hw.ac.uk/selfservice

2.5 Enrolment http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/enrolment.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on enrolment.

2.6 Periods of Study http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 6

2.7

Student Personal Information (Data Protection)

http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/studentpersonaldatastatement.pdf

2.8

Suspension of Studies

Students are advised to consult with their mentor /Year Co-ordinator/Director of Studies in the first instance Application forms are available on the Registry website,

26

http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/tss.pdf

2.9 Teaching Timetables

www.hw.ac.uk/timetabling

3. Guidance on Assessment 3.1 Assessment http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf

Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraphs 13 -19

3.2 Common Assessment and Progression System (CAPS)

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/CAPSdiagramug.pdf The University operates a Common Assessment and Progression System (CAPS) which specifies minimum progression requirements. Schools have the option to apply progression requirements above the minimum University requirement, which are approved by the Studies Committees. Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on progression requirements.

3.3

Extension to Assessment Deadlines

Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on extensions to assessment deadlines.

3.4

Ill Health and Mitigating Circumstances - Assessment

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 1 – General Regulation, paragraph 6 Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 10, 15, 25

3.5 Mitigating Circumstances in Assessment

Policy: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-policy.pdf Application Form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-form.doc

3.6

Non-Submission of Assessment

Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on non-submission of assessments.

3.7

Submission of Assessment

Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on submission of assessment.

4. Examination and Re-assessment Procedures 4.1

Assessment Results

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on assessment results.

4.2

Discretionary Credits

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 22

4.3 Examinations http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on examinations.

4.4 Examination Diets http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this

27

handbook for further details on examinations diets. 4.5

Examination Timetables

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations/timetable.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on examination timetables .

4.6

Ill Health and Mitigating Circumstances – Examinations

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 1 – General Regulation, paragraph 6 Regulation 9 – Assessments and Examinations, paragraphs 9 and 12 Students should refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for related procedures in Schools.

4.7 Mitigating Circumstances in Assessment and Examinations

Policy: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-policy.pdf Application Form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-form.doc

4.8 Examination in Different Time Zones

Policy: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/QESCpolicyexams.pdf

4.9

Information on Student Fees and Charges

Information on student fees and charges http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/tuition-fees.htm http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/ordinances.pdf Ordinance 2 – Fees, Charges, Fines and Debts

4.10 Re-assessment http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations.htm Students who study on campus are reminded of the University Senate decision that examinations should always be taken at the campus they are studying at. Requests to sit exams off-campus or at an alternative campus will not be considered, other than in exceptional circumstances. Exceptional circumstances do not include requests to sit off-campus due to travel arrangements or employment/other commitments. Reassessment Procedures: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations/reassessmentprocedures.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on re-assessment.

4.11

Use of Calculators in Examinations

Policy on the Use of Calculators: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/approvedcalculatorguidance.pdf http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 9 – Assessments and Examinations, paragraph 8

4.12 Use of Translation Dictionaries

English translation dictionaries are not permitted in any examinations, wherever or whenever the examination is held.

5. Grading, Awards and Qualifications 5.1

Honours Classification and Grading

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf

For information regarding the qualifying courses used to determine honours classifications, please refer to: Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraphs 14, 20, 23

For information on credit levels relating to degree awards can be found at:

28

Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraphs 14, 20

5.2 Intermediate Award

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/awards/intermediateawards.htm

6. Graduation 6.1

Graduation Information and Application Forms

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/graduation.htm

7. Conduct, Discipline and Appeals 7.1

Academic Conduct (including copying, plagiarism and collusion)

Further Information is available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/ Ordinance 9 – Student Discipline Regulation 9 – Assessment and Examinations, Paragraph 8 Regulation 50 – Student Discipline

7.2 Appeals Further Information is available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 36 – Student Appeals The Student Academic Appeal Policy and Procedures are available at: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/appeals.htm

7.3

Detection of Plagiarism

http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline/plagiarism.htm http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismjiscnote.pdf

7.4

Student Dicipline Policy and Procedures

Students are required to inform the University of any criminal conviction they may receive during their period of study, any that are unspent at the application stage, and any received following application but prior to their enrolment with the University. Further information is available from: http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline.htm

7.5 Plagiarism Further Information is available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline/plagiarism.htm Plagiarism Guide: For an English language version, please refer to http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismguide.pdf (this document is attached in Appendix B) For the Chinese language version, please refer to http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismguidechinese.pdf For the Arabic language version, please refer to http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismguidearabic.pdf

7.6 Use of Mobile Telephones

http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline.htm http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 9 – Assessment and Examinations, paragraph 8 Regulation 50 – Student Discipline

8. Complaints 8.1 Complaints Policy

and Procedures Further information on the University's Complaints Policy and procedures is available from:

29

http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/complaints.htm

9. Suspension, Withdrawal and Exit Award 9.1 Suspension Students are advised to consult with their mentor /Year Co-

ordinator/Director of Studies in the first instance Application forms are available on the Registry website, http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/tss.pdf Further Information is available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 1 – General Regulation, paragraph 6 Regulation 3 Modular First Degrees, paragraph 19

9.2 Withdrawal Application Form to withdraw from studies is available form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/studentrecords.htm

9.3 Exit Awards http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/awards/exitawards.htm

10. Student Fees and Charges 10.1

Charges for Transcripts, Certifications, Late Enrolment and Student Identity Cards

Follow the link for Additional Notes on Fees at: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/tuition-fees/additionalfees.htm

10.2

Fees Status Enquiry Form

http://www.hw.ac.uk/support/isao/docs/Fee%20Form%202011.pdf

10.3

Information on Student Fees and charges

Information on Tuition Fees: www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/scholarships/tuition-fees.htm Information on Additional Fees and Charges: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/tuition-fees/additionalfees.htm Further information available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/ordinances.pdf Ordinance 2 – Fees, Charges, Fines and Debts

10.4

Re-assessment Fees and Procedures

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations/reassessmentprocedures.htm

10.5 Repeated Courses http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/tuition-fees.htm

B4. QUICK FINDER GUIDE TO STUDENT ADMINISTRATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES Much of the detail this handbook provides guidance and links for the academic operations of a complex institution like Heriot-Watt University. However, as well as helping to inform students, the University also hopes to ensure that students are happy members of a vibrant community. This section outlines the range of services available for students to help them get the most out of their time here and to assist with any problems they may experience along the way.

30

Student Administration and Support Service 1

Academic Counselling and Skills Coaching

http://www.hw.ac.uk/sbc/library/academic_skills/index.htm

2 Academic Registry http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry

3

Careers Service http://www.hw.ac.uk/careers/

4

Centre for Sport and Exercise

Edinburgh Campus: http://www.hw.ac.uk/sports/

5 Chaplaincy http://www.hw.ac.uk/chaplaincy/

6 Information Services General IT information: http://www.hw.ac.uk/is/ or contact IT Help on +44 (0)130 451 4045

7

Development and Alumni Office

http://www.hw.ac.uk/alumni.htm

8

Equality and Diversity Service

http://www.hw.ac.uk/equality

9 Finance Office http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/scholarships-fees.htm or contact studentcentre@hw.ac.uk

10 Guide to Student Life http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life.htm

11 Health Service http://www.hw.ac.uk/health

12

Heriot Watt University Students’ Association

http://HWUnion.com or contact info@hwunion.com

13

Information Security (Data Protection)

http://www.hw.ac.uk/about/policies/data-protection.htm To find out more please contact foi@hw.ac.uk

14

International Student Advice

http://www1.hw.ac.uk/support/isao/accommodation.htm

15 Library http://www.hw.ac.uk/is/library-essentials.htm

16 Sports Union http://www.hw.ac.uk/sports/sports-union.htm

17

Student Service Centre

http://www.hw.ac.uk/studentcentre

18

Student Support and Accommodation

Student Support: http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/campus-life/student-support.htm Accommodation: http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/campus-life/edinburgh/accommodation.htm http://www.hw.ac.uk/support/isao/accommodation.htm or contact - studentsupport@hw.ac.uk

19 Religious Services In addition to the multi-denominational Chaplaincy, a Muslim Prayer Room is provided for students at the main University

31

campus Edinburgh. There is also a prayer room for students within the Dubai Campus.

20 Wider Access Programme

Further information on Wider Access can be found at: http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/entry-requirements/other-routes-to-entry.htm or contact edu.liasion@hw.ac.uk

32

APPENDIX A

STUDENT LEARNING CODE OF PRACTICE for those studying on campus What staff can expect from students Most importantly, we expect you to take charge of your own learning. This is your degree; to get the most of your time at the University you need to be independent, self-motivated and proactive in your studies. We understand that you may have other demands on your time, but your studies should come first. In addition, we expect: • Preparation for classes as specified by your lecturers, including studying lecture notes, working on

tutorial questions and participating in online activities. To do well in your studies you will need to undertake a significant amount of private study in addition to attending your timetabled classes

• Full engagement and attendance on time for lectures, laboratories, seminars and tutorials: during the semester it is your responsibility to be available to attend classes and, in particular, class tests

• Basic organisational skills, including coming to classes with pen and paper ready to take notes or with equipment for electronic note-taking, and using a calendar so that you don't forget deadlines and appointments

• Attention, courtesy and participation during classes; this includes asking and answering questions in lectures and tutorials

• Respecting deadlines for any assignments • Taking responsibility for your work, whether completed individually or as part of a group • Attendance at any scheduled meetings with a member of staff. If you can't make a scheduled

meeting, please notify the member of staff in advance rather than just not attending • Checking your University email, providing timely responses to emails from members of staff • Provision of feedback on your courses and programme • Commitment to your learning and a professional approach to your academic work • Self-reflection on progress and willingness to learn from feedback on tutorial work, projects, exams,

and trying to improve your work based on that feedback • Determination and persistence; some topics and problems will be challenging and we expect you to

make a sustained effort to master difficult topics. Lecturers are there to help if you need it • To keep yourself informed about new and interesting developments in your discipline (beyond what

is covered in your courses) • Full referencing of all work * • Adherence to regulations and requirements, including health and safety • Politeness and respect for all members of the Heriot-Watt University community

(www.hw.ac.uk/equality/Values/Values%20Index.htm) and for the facilities/ services provided. This includes switching off your phones and other social media during classes

* Full referencing is required in accordance with the conventions of your subject area/discipline. Guidance on referencing and the use of sources is available from your subject librarian and the Effective Learning Service (http://www.hw.ac.uk/is/skills-development/study-support.htm). Remember that plagiarism is an academic offence even if it is unintentional; you need to take care to avoid it.

33

APPENDIX A

What students can expect from staff Teaching is one of the most important duties for members of staff. Although members of academic staff have research and administrative duties which also require attention, we aim to provide: • Commitment to helping you learn, with support, encouragement and technical back-up to help you

develop your skills • Research informed teaching and high quality delivery of learning materials in accordance with the

syllabus • Advice and support on course content at tutorials, laboratories and through pre-arranged meetings • Appropriate supervision of project/dissertation work • Clear information and guidance on assessment requirements • Availability for face-to-face meetings, either during scheduled office hours or at pre-arranged times • Timely oral and written feedback • Timely provision of marks/grades for coursework and exams • A prompt response from your mentor • A timely response to general email questions • Guidance on specific regulations and requirements including those related to health and safety • Politeness and respect (www.hw.ac.uk/equality/Values/Values%20Index.htm) Sometimes members of staff are away on University business and are not able to respond as quickly as normal. If this happens, they will leave an "out-of-office" message and will advise you who to contact instead. If you have a problem If you have a personal or any other type of problem that is having an adverse effect on your studies, please discuss it with your mentor. We are here to help. You can also discuss any personal problems including counselling, disability and financial difficulties with the staff in the Student Support (and Accommodation) Office (www.hw.ac.uk/support, or email studentsupport@hw.ac.uk). For problems about your course or study programme, talk to the lecturer first. If that doesn't help, you can raise the matter with your Class Representative or the Year Director of Studies. Academic Registrar and Deputy Secretary September 2013; rev January 2014

34

APPENDIX B

STUDENT GUIDE TO PLAGIARISM 1

Plagiarism is intellectual theft and is a major offence which the University takes seriously in all cases. Students must therefore avoid committing acts of plagiarism by following these guidelines and speaking to academic staff if they are uncertain about what plagiarism means. Those who are found to have plagiarised will be subject to the University’s disciplinary procedures, which may result in penalties ranging from the deduction of credits and modules already achieved by students to compulsory termination of studies. Students are advised to refer to Regulation 50 at http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf and to the Guidelines for Staff and Students on Discipline at http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline.htm for further details of how the University deals with all acts of plagiarism.

Introduction 1.1. This guide is intended to provide students at Heriot-Watt University with a clear definition of

plagiarism and examples of how to avoid it. 1.2. The guide may also be of use to members of staff who seek to advise students on the various

issues outlined below.

Definition 1.3. Plagiarism involves the act of taking the ideas, writings or inventions of another person and

using these as if they were one’s own, whether intentionally or not. Plagiarism occurs where there is no acknowledgement that the writings or ideas belong to or have come from another source.

1.4. Most academic writing involves building on the work of others and this is acceptable as long as

their contribution is identified and fully acknowledged. It is not wrong in itself to use the ideas, writings or inventions of others, provided that whoever does so is honest about acknowledging the source of that information. Many aspects of plagiarism can be simply avoided through proper referencing. However, plagiarism extends beyond minor errors in referencing the work of others and also includes the reproduction of an entire paper or passage of work or of the ideas and views contained in such pieces of work.

Good Practice 1.5. Academic work is almost always drawn from other published information supplemented by the

writer’s own ideas, results or findings. Thus drawing from other work is entirely acceptable, but it is unacceptable not to acknowledge such work. Conventions or methods for making acknowledgements can vary slightly from subject to subject, and students should seek the advice of staff in their own School/Institute about ways of doing this. Generally, referencing systems fall into the Harvard (where the text citation is by author and date) and numeric (where the text citation is by using a number). Both systems refer readers to a list at the end of the piece of work where sufficient information is provided to enable the reader to locate the source for themselves.

1.6. When a student undertakes a piece of work that involves drawing on the writings or ideas of

others, they must ensure that they acknowledge each contribution in the following manner:

• Citations: when a direct quotation, a figure, a general idea or other piece of information is taken from another source, the work and its source must be acknowledged and identified where it occurs in the text;

1 The author acknowledges the following sources of information used in preparing this guide to Plagiarism: “Plagiarism – A Good Practice Guide”, Carroll, J and Appleton, J (2001) and various extracts from Student/Course Handbooks 2004/2005, Schools and Institutes at Heriot-Watt University

35

APPENDIX B

• Quotations: inverted commas must always be used to identify direct quotations, and the

source of the quotation must be cited;

• References: the full details of all references and other sources must be listed in a section at the end of any piece of work, such as an essay, together with the full publication details. This is normally referred to as a “List of References” and it must include details of any and all sources of information that the student has referred to in producing their work. (This is slightly different to a Bibliography, which may also contain references and sources which, although not directly referred to in your work, you consulted in producing your work).

1.7. Students may wish to refer to the following examples which illustrate the basic principles of

plagiarism and how students might avoid it in their work by using some very simple techniques:

1.7.1. Example 1: A Clear Case of Plagiarism

Examine the following example in which a student has simply inserted a passage of text (in italics) into their work directly from a book they have read:

University and college managers should consider implementing strategic frameworks if they wish to embrace good management standards. One of the key problems in setting a strategic framework for a college or university is that the individual institution has both positive and negative constraints placed upon its freedom of action. Managers are employed to resolve these issues effectively.

This is an example of bad practice as the student makes no attempt to distinguish the passage they have inserted from their own work. Thus, this constitutes a clear case of plagiarism. Simply changing a few key words in such a passage of text (e.g. replace ‘problems’ with ‘difficulties’) does not make it the student’s work and it is still considered to be an act of plagiarism.

1.7.2. Common Mistakes Students may also find the following examples2 of common plagiarism mistakes made by other students useful when reflecting on their own work:

• “I thought it would be okay as long as I included the source in my bibliography”

[without indicating a quotation had been used in the text] • “I made lots of notes for my essay and couldn't remember where I found the

information” • “I thought it would be okay to use material that I had purchased online” • “I thought it would be okay to copy the text if I changed some of the words into my

own” • “I thought that plagiarism only applied to essays, I didn't know that it also applies to

oral presentations/group projects etc” • “I thought it would be okay just to use my tutor's notes” • “I didn't think that you needed to reference material found on the web” • “I left it too late and just didn't have time to reference my sources”

None of the above are acceptable reasons for failing to acknowledge the use of others’ work and thereby constitute plagiarism.

1.8. What follows are examples of the measures that students should employ in order to correctly

cite the words, thought or ideas of others that have influenced their work:

1.8.1. Example 2: Quoting the work of others

2 Extract from ‘Plagiarism at the University of Essex’ advice copyrighted and published by the Learning, Teaching and Quality Unit at the University of Essex (http://www.essex.ac.uk/plagiarism/reasons.html ), reproduced with kind permission.

36

APPENDIX B

If a student wishes to cite a passage of text in order to support their own work, the correct way of doing so is to use quotation marks (e.g. “ “) to show that the passage is someone else’s work, as follows:

“One of the key problems in setting a strategic framework for a college or university is that the individual institution has both positive and negative constraints placed upon its freedom of action”.

1.8.2. Example 3: Referencing the work of others

In addition to using quotation marks as above, students must also use a text citation. If the work being cited is a book, page numbers would also normally be required. Thus, using the Harvard system for a book:

“One of the key problems in setting a strategic framework for a college or university is that the individual institution has both positive and negative constraints placed upon its freedom of action” (Jones, 2001, p121).

The same reference could also be made to a book using the numeric system:

“One of the key problems in setting a strategic framework for a college or university is that the individual institution has both positive and negative constraints placed upon its freedom of action” (Ref.1, p121).

More often, a piece of work will have multiple references and this serves to show an examiner that the student is drawing from a number of sources. For example, articles by Brown and by Smith may be cited as follows in the Harvard system “It has been asserted that Higher Education in the United Kingdom continued to be poorly funded during the 1980’s [Brown, 1991], whereas more modern writers [Smith, 2002] argue that the HE sector actually received, in real terms, more funding during this period than the thirty year period immediately preceding it”. or as follows using the numeric system: “It has been asserted that Higher Education in the United Kingdom continued to be poorly funded during the 1980’s [Ref 1], whereas more modern writers [Ref 2] argue that the HE sector actually received, in real terms, more funding during this period than the thirty year period immediately preceding it”.

1.8.3. Example 4: Use of reference lists Whichever system is used, a list must be included at the end, which allows the reader to locate the works cited for themselves. The Internet is also an increasingly popular source of information for students and details must again be provided. You should adhere to the following guidelines in all cases where you reference the work of others: If the source is a book, the required information is as follows: • Author’s name(s) • Year of Publication • Title of Book • Place of Publication

• Publishers Name • All Page Numbers cited • Edition (if more than one, e.g. 3rd

edition, 2001)

If the source is an article in a journal or periodical, the required information is as follows: • Author’s name(s) • Year of Publication • Title of Journal

• Volume and part number • Page numbers for the article

If the source is from the Internet, the required information is as follows:

37

APPENDIX B

• Author’s or Institution’s name

(“Anon”, if not known) • Title of Document • Date last accessed by student

• Full URL (e.g. http://www.lib.utk.edu /instruction/plagiarism/)

• Affiliation of author, if given (e.g. University of Tennessee)

The way in which the information is organised can vary, and there are some types of work (for example edited volumes and conference proceedings) where the required information is slightly different. Essentially, though, it is your responsibility to make it clear where you are citing references within your work and what the source is within your reference list. Failure to do so is an act of plagiarism.

1.9. Students are encouraged to use a style of acknowledgement that is appropriate to their own

academic discipline and should seek advice from their mentor, course leader or other appropriate member of academic staff. There are also many reference sources available in the University Library which will provide useful guidance on referencing styles.

Managing Plagiarism 1.10. Students, supervisors and institutions have a joint role in ensuring that plagiarism is avoided in

all areas of academic activity. Each role is outlined below as follows:

How you can ensure that you avoid plagiarism in your work:

• Take responsibility for applying the above principles of best practice and integrity within all of your work

• Be aware that your written work will be checked for plagiarism and that all incidents of plagiarism, if found, are likely to result in severe disciplinary action by the University. The standard penalty is to annul all assessments taken in the same diet of examinations (for details please refer to Regulation 50 at http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf and to the Guidelines for Staff and Students on Discipline at http://www1.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline.htm ).

How your School/Institute will help you to avoid plagiarism: • Highlight written guidance on how you can avoid plagiarism and provide you with

supplementary, verbal guidance wherever appropriate • Regularly check student work to ensure that plagiarism has not taken place. This may

involve both manual and electronic methods of checking. A number of plagiarism detection packages are in use at Heriot-Watt University, one example being the Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) “TurnitIn” plagiarism detection software.

• Alert you to the procedures that will apply should you be found to have committed or be suspected of having committed an act of plagiarism and explain how further action will be taken in accordance with University policy and procedures.

How the University will endeavour to reduce student plagiarism: • Provide clear written guidance on what constitutes plagiarism and how to avoid it directly to

your School/Institute and to you • Alert you and staff in your School/Institute to the penalties employed when dealing with

plagiarism cases • Take steps to ensure that a consistent approach is applied when dealing with cases of

suspected plagiarism across the institution • Take the issue of academic dishonesty very seriously and routinely investigate cases

where students have plagiarised and apply appropriate penalties in all proven cases.

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