REGULATIONS FOR THE BACHELOR OF EDUCATION DUAL HONOURS IN SCIENCE DEGREE (EDU16)

 

Duration:                                                    4 years

Actual Credit Load                              288

Minimum Credit Load:                     240

Maximum Credit Load:                    300

Total MBKS Credit Load:                192

ZNQF Level:                                           8

1.0   PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAMME

To prepare in-service teachers to teach two Secondary School Science learning areas (Mathematics, Statistics; Biology; Chemistry; Physics; Computer Science and Geography) up to A-Level and produce highly qualified personnel for educational institutions, government departments, Non-Governmental Organisations and related industries.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Normal Entry:  Diploma/Certificate in Education or equivalent from an accredited and recognized institution in any two of the following learning areas  Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, and Geography.

3.0   PROGRAMME CHARACTERISTICS

Areas of Study: Science Education

Specialist Focus: Upskilling Science Education teachers

Orientation:  Teaching and learning, that is, heritage-based, research, innovation and industrialisation-oriented.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND FURTHER EDUCATION

Employability: Graduates can be employed as teachers, lecturers, education inspectors, training officers, consultants, and laboratory technicians in related industries.

Further Studies: Masters and Doctoral studies in Science Education.

5.0   PROGRAMME DELIVERY

Teaching and Learning Methods: Lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, seminars, group work, fieldwork, industrial visits, research projects, independent study, virtual and online learning.

Subject combinations under the BED Dual Hons Science Degree (In-service)

Mathematics and Statistics; Biology and Applied Technologies; Chemistry and Applied Technologies; Physics and Applied Technologies; Computer Science and Emerging Technologies; and Geography and Environmental Education

Distribution of Common Modules per Level

Common Modules

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
BED144	School Curriculum Competencies and Innovation	12
BCHS131	Cultural and Heritage Studies	12
BED133	Introduction to Information Communication Technology in Education	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
BED131	Research Methods and Statistics	12
BED231	Assessment and Evaluation Techniques	12
Electives	Choose one:
EFS131	Sociological Issues in Education	12
EFPS131	Psychological Issues in Education	12
EFPH131	Philosophical Issues in Education	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
BEIE501	Entrepreneurship and Industrialisation in Education	12
EDGS231	Gender Studies for Educators	12
BED135	Contemporary Issues in Education	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
BED232	Research Project	24
ASE302	Pedagogics in Science Education for Sustainable Development	12
BEFM231	School Administration and Financial Management in Education	12
BED136	Educational Management	12

 

Module synopses for Common Modules

EFS 131 & EFPS 131 & EFPH 131: Applied Educational Foundations                                                            

The module shall cover the foundations of teaching in the areas of psychology of education, philosophy of education and sociology of education. Theories in these areas that relate to teaching and learning are explored to capacitate students in designing and managing learning environments in their respective subject areas.

BCHS 131: Cultural and Heritage Studies

The module introduces scholars to terms of culture and heritage. The module exposes the learners to issues like civic education, spirituality, and tangible and nontangible Zimbabwean resources. The history of Zimbabwe and its different ethnic groupings in different geographical locations are explored. Learners shall be challenged to appreciate and enjoy the multicultural status of the nation.

BED133: Introduction to Information Communication Technology

This module guides students to critically and creatively apply concepts, principles, hardware and software associated with the infusion of information communication technology (ICT) in solving educational problems and meeting challenges in their roles. The module covers the fundamental concepts of computer and telecommunication uses in education. Its focus is on the application of ICTs as tools and resources for teaching and learning.

BED144: School Curriculum Competencies and Innovation                                                                                                                                           

The module introduces students to the schools’ curriculum and basic theories of curriculum development. It explores the philosophy of the Zimbabwean competency-based curriculum and its implications for teaching. The specific competencies in the curriculum are analysed concerning how they empower students with life-long competencies that prepare students for sustainable livelihoods outside formal employment. Such competencies include creativity, innovation, industrialisation, and entrepreneurship, among others.

ASE302: Pedagogics in Science Education for Sustainable Development

The module shall focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of teaching science subjects, going beyond syllabus interpretation, and lesson planning. It covers discipline-specific theories of learning, contemporary issues and modern trends in Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Geography, Agriculture and Physical Education, Sports Science and Management. It aims to develop students’ capacity to teach science in a manner that promotes sustainable development competencies, such as creativity and innovation.

BED231: Assessment and Evaluation Techniques

The module shall cover assessment and evaluation issues in education across all subject areas. The content of the module includes analysis of the concepts of evaluation, assessment and measurement in education; contemporary ideas on how to improve assessment and evaluation in schools; test designing; analysis of test results; national examinations and grading.

BED131: Research Methods and Statistics

The module explores the basic foundations of research, paradigms and ethical issues. It introduces the data collection and analysis techniques for both qualitative and quantitative research. The techniques require a mastery of descriptive and inferential statistics as skills that are employed in the conduct of supervised and independent research activities.

BEIE501: Entrepreneurship and Industrialisation in Education

This module equips the students with the relevant knowledge of how to set up and successfully operate business/production units within and outside educational institutions. It covers issues such as how to identify the educational needs of communities and factors to consider in deciding to set up an educational institution (the legal framework including the Education Act and Statutory Instruments). It also covers school rules and regulations, disciplinary procedures, staff recruitment, training and development, budgets and budgetary control and how to market the new educational institution.

EDGS231: Gender Studies for Educators

The module imparts knowledge and skills that enable gender-sensitive behaviour and attitude in the university, workplace and all social interactions. Topics that are covered include Understanding Gender, Theories of Gender Inequalities, Historical Development of Gender, Gender Analysis, Gender Issues in Zimbabwe, Redressing Gender Imbalances, Empowerment and strategies for creating a gender-responsive environment.

BED232: Research Project

The module demands a demonstration of research skills through the conduct of supervised independent research and the submission of a dissertation for assessment. It requires an oral presentation to defend the dissertation.

BED135: Contemporary Issues in Education

The module exposes students to the most current global trends like Globalisation, Sustainable Development Goals, Gender, Human Rights, and Health pandemics and how these feed into and also how they affect the Zimbabwean Education system.  The thrust is to leverage current trends in promoting innovation, industrialisation and modernisation through Education 5.0.

BEFM231: School Administration and Financial Management in Education

The module shall introduce sound administration and financial management practices followed in schools and other educational institutions. It tackles the basic tenets of the nature and purpose of administration and familiarises students with skills in budgeting and budgetary control. Students are further introduced to the accounting requirements of Treasury Instructions, the School Services Fund, the General-Purpose Fund and School Development Association Funds. Students shall have been equipped with financial literacy to establish their business enterprises.

Under this degree programme, a student shall choose two learning areas of specialisation from the following: Mathematics and Statistics; Biology and Applied Technologies; Chemistry and Applied Technologies; Physics and Applied Technologies; Computer Science and Emerging Technologies; Geography and Environmental Education.

The following tables show the modules to be done in each learning area and per level.

BIOLOGY

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEBI201	Principles of Ecology and Sustainable Management (optional)	12
SEBI101	Diversity of Life and Conservation 1	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEBI103	Cell Biology (optional)	12
SEBI104	Diversity of Life and Conservation 2	12
SEBI105	Genetics and Evolution	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEBI106	Animal Anatomy and Physiology	12
SEBI203	Plant Morphology, Physiology and Productivity	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEBI202	Biotechnology	12

 

Module Synopses

SEBI 201: Principles of Ecology and Sustainable Management

This module introduces students to ecosystem processes and functions; the soil, plants, animals, microorganisms and their interconnectedness. The main relationships and interactions between biotic and abiotic components of ecosystems, and the  nature and the scope of ecology are explored. It also covers levels of ecological organisation, individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems population ecology and community ecology. The ecosystem, soil ecology; restoration, reclamation and sustainable management of resources are also included.

SEBI101: Diversity of Life and Conservation 1

The module focuses on Taxonomy and phylogeny the goals of classification; the stages of classification; phonetics, and cladistics. It examines Taxonomic keys and phylogenetic trees, Diversity in the kingdom Monera, Protista, Fungi, conservation of monera, protista and fungi, use of monera, fungi and protist for value addition. The module shall also focus on the kingdoms Plantae and Animalia exploring the Plant families of ecological and economic importance in the flora Zambesiaca, seeds, fruits and their dispersal, and adaptations of plants to pollinating agents.

SEBI103: Cell Biology

The module discusses the structure of eukaryotic cells,the function of organelles, membrane structures transport across membranes,membrane synthesis, protein synthesis, sorting and delivery of the role of lysosomes in recycling cellular components, functional importance of mitochondrial membranes in respiration, the components of the cytoskeleton, cell motility, cell differentiation, unlimited cell growth and cancer cells,applications in health and value addition.

SEBI106: Animal Anatomy and Physiology

This module examines the function of tissues, organs, and organ systems, with an emphasis on the relationship between structure and function in animals. From the level of the cell, the module shall dwell on bodily processes including respiration, circulation, digestion and excretion, digestion, circulation, respiration, excretion, nervous control, endocrinology,hormonal regulation, and metabolism.

SEBI203: Plant Morphology, Physiology and Productivity

The module considers the integrated structure and function of higher plants, Basic plant anatomy and architecture/morphology, tissues of the higher plant body and their functions. It also covers tissue organisation, reproductive structures, general adaptations of anatomy and morphology, ecophysiology of photosynthesis, respiration, macronutrients and micronutrients,mechanisms and control of transport processes, plant hormones, and application of knowledge for improved productivity are also included.

SEBI202: Biotechnology

The module examines the methods in biotechnology, ethical issues and legislation, viral elimination by meristeming, frost prevention, Bt genes, antisense technology, and breeding for resistance/tolerance. It also covers gene therapy, bacteriology, microbiology sterilisation and exenic culture. Bacterial genetics the nature and replication of the bacterial genome, mutation, transformation, transduction and conjugation. Applications of biotechnology in medicine, agriculture, industry and environmental remediation are also included.

CHEMISTRY

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SECH 111	Fundamental Principles of Physical Chemistry	12
SECH 113	Fundamental Principles of Organic Chemistry	12
SECH 115	Laboratory Skills and Techniques	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SECH 112	Principles of Inorganic Chemistry	12
SECH 114	Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SECH 116	Environmental Chemistry	12
SECH 216	Industrial Chemistry	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SECH 217	Nano Chemistry and Nano Technology	12
SECH 218	Green Chemistry and Sustainable Development	12

 

Module Synopses

SECH 111: Fundamental Principles of Physical Chemistry

The module explores the fundamental principles of chemical thermodynamics and its application to common chemical situations. In addition, the 1st and 2nd laws of thermodynamics are addressed, including topics such as thermochemistry, electrochemistry, chemical equilibrium and reaction kinetics. The laboratory practicals also form an integral part of the module.

SECH112: Principles of Inorganic Chemistry

This module is an introduction to the fundamentals of atomic structure and chemical bonding. Simple Bonding Theories (Lewis structures, VSEPR theory, valence bond theory) Molecular Orbital Theory (sigma and pi bonding polyatomic MO diagrams). The module covers the chemical periodicity of period 2 and 3 elements, chemistry of groups II, IV, VII as well as the chemistry of nitrogen and sulphur. Laboratory practicals are based on qualitative analysis.

SECH115: Laboratory Skills and Techniques

This module is an introduction to the chemistry lab and it demonstrates the principles of chemistry and laboratory techniques.  The module offers an opportunity to learn and master the basic chemistry lab techniques for carrying out experiments. The module also accords experience of basic laboratory skills in experimental planning, preparation, execution and documenting experimental results.

SECH113 Fundamental Principles of Organic Chemistry

The module is an introductory course to organic chemistry, focusing primarily on the basic principles to understand the structure and reactivity of organic molecules. It includes extensive treatment of hydrocarbons, halogen derivatives, hydroxyl compounds, carbonyl compounds, carboxylic acids and derivatives, nitrogen compounds as well as polymerisation. The module introduces the chemistry of aromatic compounds.                                  

SECH114 Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry

The emphasis of this module is on the theory and applications of classical analytical techniques as well as the evaluation of experimental results.  Topics including chemical equations and stoichiometry, introduction to statistical treatment of analytical data; theory and application of gravimetric and titrimetric methods of analysis are covered by the module. The module includes laboratory practicals. 

SECH116 Environmental Chemistry

The module provides students with the chemical basis for understanding our surroundings, and the global environment. This module examines the chemistry of the environment, emphasising on the composition of the natural environment and the processes of natural and anthropogenic chemicals in the environment. It provides a broad overview of many important environmental issues thus providing the chemical basis for understanding the environment and environmental problems.

SECH217: Nano chemistry and Nano Technology

The course introduces students to issues such as nanoscale which refers to materials with dimensions on the scale of nanometres, Control of the material world at the scale of atoms and molecules which can produce materials with fundamentally different properties and behaviour and has been touted as the next technological revolution.

SECH216: Industrial Chemistry

The module deals with the development, optimisation and monitoring of various chemical processes used in industry for transforming raw materials etc., into useful commercial products for society. Industrial chemistry as an applied science plays a vital role in diverse areas that influence human society. The module equips students with knowledge and skills related to chemistry for job opportunities in industries in both private and public sectors such as manufacturing and processing industries, industries related to petroleum, and the environment.

SECH218: Green Chemistry and Sustainable Development

This module introduces the concept of sustainable chemistry and a holistic perspective of chemistry along the life cycle of chemical products. The module considers a range of factors that should be considered when designing more sustainable chemical products and processes for the future. It familiarises students with the principles for the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SECS101	Computers and Computer Applications	12
SECS102	Fundamentals of Computer Architecture	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SECS103	Foundations of Computer Programming	12
SECS104	Mathematics for Computing	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SECS205	Object-Oriented Programming in C++	12
SECS201	Operating Systems and Hardware (optional)	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SECS402	Database Systems	12

 

Module Synopses

SECS101: Computers and Computer Applications

This module covers computer concepts. Topics covered include data processing cycle, number systems, computer arithmetic, types of computers and computer peripherals. It also includes types of computer software including systems software, application software and utility software, and basics of computer network and data communication. 

SECS102: Fundamentals of Computer Architecture

This module covers the fundamental concepts in the architecture of computer systems including register, structure, memory organisation and management, organisation of peripherals, and machine-level operations. Topics to be covered include variations in computer architectures including buses, and internal and external memory. I/O and interfacing, instruction sets, RISC computers. These concepts are integrated through the use of assemblers, linkers and loaders.           

SECS103: Foundations of Computer Programming

This module introduces programmes in writing using assignments. Topics covered include variables, simple types, operators and expressions, conditional and repetitive statements, inputs and output. Simple functions, programme structure and organisation, definition and scope, and introduction to classes and objects are also covered.

SECS104: Mathematics for Computing                                         

This module focuses on designing, implementing and analysing efficient data structures and algorithms for computer programmes. Topics covered include algorithms and programmes, lists, queues, dictionaries, tree data structures, sorting techniques, and directed and undirected graphs. It also covers the representation of graphs, heuristic algorithms, and implementation of data structures in any high-level programming language.

SECS205: Object-Oriented Programming in C++

The module introduces the principles of object-oriented programming, tokens, expressions and control structures. Functions in classes and objects, constructors and destructors, operator overloading, type conversions, inheritance,extending classes, pointers, virtual functions and polymorphism, managing console I/O operations, working with files, object-oriented systems development, and projects.

SECS201: Operating Systems and Hardware

The module introduces operational procedures, visible Windows and other operating systems, network technologies, protocols, LANS, WANS, microprocessors, BIOS, CMOS, motherboards, and hard drive technologies. It incorporates installing and upgrading Windows, configuring users, and groups, authorisation, user access controls (UAC), troubleshooting, and maintenance of systems components/ peripherals, safe storage of data and recovery from disasters, and safe disposal of computer waste-green computing.

SECS402: Database Systems

The module focuses on Indicative content: Introduction and conceptual modelling, databases and database users, database concepts and architecture. It also includes Data modelling using the ER model, EER, Relational Database constraints, Relational Algebra and Calculus, Basic Constraints and Queries, normalisation and functional dependencies. It covers Java and PHP and Web databases.

GEOGRAPHY

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEGE101	Cartography, GIS and Geostatistical Analysis	12
SEGE103	Meteorology and Climatology	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEGE104	Geomorphology	12
SEGE201	Biogeography and Sustainable Resources Management	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEGE202	Population, Settlement Dynamics and Agriculture	12
SEGE401	Hydrology and Fluvial Processes	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEGE404	Regional Inequalities and Development Strategies	12
SEGE405	Mineral Beneficiation, Industrialisation and Trade	12

 

MODULE SYNOPSES

SEGE 101: Cartography, GIS and Geostatistical Analysis

The module explores how scientific and historical views of maps and general school map work practices are traced back to Cartography. GIS, Global Positioning System (GPS) and Remote Sensing are introduced and applied to mapping systems. The module also explores measurement levels and their application to statistical analysis. Univariate and multivariate statistical models are explored and how they are related to the geographical research process. This module has practical and field components.

SEGE103: Meteorology and Climatology

The module focuses on weather elements, instruments and measurement and synoptic weather symbols, weather statistics, rainfall types and distribution, weather forecasting, weather hazards, climate change and variability. These concepts are discussed in the context of teaching and learning weather studies in Zimbabwe schools & SADC in particular and the world in general.

SEGE104: Geomorphology

The module explores, rock weathering and resulting landforms, the internal structure of the earth, continental drift theory, plate tectonics, folding, faulting, volcanoes and earthquakes landforms resulting from water action and river processes, wind action and hazards associated with landform development processes. It interrogates tropical landform development and theories of landscape formation.

SEGE201: Biogeography and Sustainable Resources Management

The module explores the natural resources concept, renewable and non-renewable resources, and sustainable use of resources in relation to population pressures. Exploitation and conservation of resources such as wildlife, soil, and vegetation distribution are explored zeroing in on biomass, biomes, biodiversity, and adaptation.

SEGE202: Population, Settlement Dynamics, and Agriculture      

The module focuses on trends in population growth, the population as a determinant of economic development, and the impact of population growth on health and diseases. The influence of conventional and indigenous knowledge systems on migration and population policies is explored. Urban morphology, related processes of urbanisation, suburbanisation, counter–urbanisation, and urban renewal are analysed are applied to relevant environments. Land use and land reform with reference to population pressure and settlement are also explored.  The module also analyses the impact of biochemical, mechanical and socio-economic changes on Less Economically Developed Countries (LEDCs).

SEGE401: Hydrology and Fluvial Processes

The module tackles the drainage basin system: inputs, processes/flows, outputs, stores, and groundwater: occurrence, quantity and quality and sustainable management of groundwater. It analyses rainfall–discharge relationships within the drainage basin as well as hydrological hazards and mitigation and control.

SEGE404: Regional Inequalities and Development Strategies

The module assesses the indicators of economic development and explains regional inequalities in Zimbabwe, Africa and the world, their causes and impacts as well as solutions to regional disparities. The Core-periphery concept is explained, and case studies of regional disparities are identified, discussed and evaluated.

SEGE405: Mineral Beneficiation, Industrialisation and Trade

The module explores the use and future of traditional, clean, and green sources of energy generation in Zimbabwe. Sustainable use of mineral resources and Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) in mining is explored concerning mining legislation and policies in Zimbabwe such as Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Industrialisation models and their relevance to Zimbabwe’s development are explored. Trade patterns & practices are analysed and tied to the resultant transport models.

MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS MODULES

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEMA101	Calculus	12
SEMA102	Linear Mathematics	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEMA103	Applied Statistics	12
SEMA104	Numerical Methods	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEMA105	Applications of Ordinary Differential Equations	12
SEMA106	Probability Theory	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEMA401	Mechanics	12
SEMA402	Vector Analysis (Optional)	12

 

MODULE SYNOPSES

SEMA 101: Calculus

The module shall introduce the Number systems; Natural, integral, rational and irrational; the principle of mathematical induction, the real number system: decimal and geometrical representation, inequalities and their solution sets. It also covers Functions; different types of functions and their inverses, Limits of functions, Continuity, Sequences and Series, Differentiation, Integration and their applications and the Mean value theorems.

SEMA102: Linear Mathematics

The module shall focus on Complex numbers: geometric representation, algebra, De Moivre’s theorem polynomials and roots of polynomial equations, Matrices and determinants. It also covers the algebra of matrices, inverses, definition and manipulation of determinants, solutions of simultaneous linear equations, applications to geometry and vectors, Differential equations: separable, homogeneous, exact, integrating factors, and linear equations with constant coefficients.

SEMA106: Probability Theory

The module covers axiomatic probability, sets and events, sample space, conditional probability, independence, laws discrete and continuous random variables. It also covers probability density functions, means, variance, expectation, Independence, Chebyshev’s inequality, moments and moment generating functions, common discrete distributions and continuous distributions.

SEMA104: Numerical Methods

The module covers numerical methods for solving problems in mathematics, numerical methods for root-finding, simple iterative methods and the Newton-Raphson method, convergence, Polynomial interpolation and splines. It also covers numerical integration and differentiation. The module also includes differential equations and modelling of real-life phenomena using differential equations. This includes solving Ordinary Differential Equations.

SEMA103: Applied Statistics

This module covers Data analysis; Variables and Graphs, Numerical Summary of Data, spread using quartiles, Box plots, Standard deviation, Normal Distributions, Standardized observations, and Normal Approximation. It also covers sampling distribution for the mean and standard deviation, central limit theorem, chi-square, student-t and F distributions. Distribution of min and max, estimation, interval estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, parametric and non-parametric tests, composite hypothesis, sampling from the normal distribution and tests of equality of two multinomial distributions are also included.

 SEMA204: Real Analysis

The module covers a firm foundation in the theory of real analysis and uses definitions and logical reasoning to prove mathematical results or theorems. The students shall develop strong analytical skills which are useful in students’ day-to-day lives. It provides students with various techniques for solving mathematical problems and prepares students for higher studies in mathematics and related fields.

SEMA401: Mechanics

The module covers kinematics, projectiles, vectors, Newton’s Laws, forces, momentum, gravity, impulse and moments. It also covers geostationary orbits, relative velocity, uniform orbits, oscillations, elastic forces and resonance. It also includes equivalent systems of forces, systems of particles, elementary theory of rigid bodies, Archimedes Principle, and Hydrodynamics. Bernoulli’s Principle and its applications, fluid flow are also included.

SEMA402: Vector Analysis

The module covers line, surface and volume integrals flux through surfaces, Grad, Curl and Stokes’ Theorem characterisation of conservative vector fields, convergence and divergence theorem,solenoidal vector fields and vector potential, comparison of integral theorems with the fundamental theorem of calculus as well as Poisson’s equation and its solution for some simple geometries.

PHYSICS

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEMA101	Calculus	12
SEPH101	Waves and Optics	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEPH102	Mechanics	12
SEPH103	Robotics	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEPH203	Electricity and Magnetism	12
SEPH201	Modern and Thermal Physics	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
SEPH204	Electronics and Electronic Communication	12
SEPH205	Quantum and Solid-State Physics	12

 

Module Synopses

SEMA101: Calculus

The module exposes number systems, natural, integral, rational and irrational. The principle of mathematical induction, the real number system, decimal and geometrical representation, inequalities and their solution sets, function,s different types of functions and their inverses, limits of functions, continuity, sequences and series, differentiation, integration and their applications and the mean value theorems.

SEPH101: General Mechanics, Waves and Optics

The module shall introduce the concepts covering kinematics, projectiles, vectors, Newton’s laws, forces, momentum, gravity, work, energy, and power. It shall also deal with wave motion, the general equation of wave motion, reflection of waves, refraction of waves, Fermat’s principle and its applications.

SEPH102: Mechanics

The module covers Kinematics, projectiles, vectors, Newton’s Laws, forces, momentum, gravity, work, energy, power, conservative and dissipative forces, impulse and moments, circular motion, motion of planets and satellites – geostationary orbits, relative velocity, uniform relative translational motion,  orbits, oscillations, elastic forces and resonance, equivalent systems of forces, systems of particles, and elementary theory of rigid bodies.

SEPH103: Robotics

The module introduces the student to the main concepts and skills needed to assemble, programme, and control a simple robot. The module shall cover various multidisciplinary topics necessary to understand the fundamentals of designing, building, and programming robots such as kinematics, dynamics, trajectory planning, control of robot manipulators, and sensing. In addition, the module shall address the basic manufacturing techniques, robot terminology, different types of automation, safety, basic robotic programming, interfacing robotic communications, automated work cells, and robotic applications.

SEPH201: Modern and Thermal Physics

The module seeks to focus on Modern Physics: Nuclear Physics: Thermal Physics: Thermometry, Zeroth law, laws of thermodynamics, heat transfer, entropy, Carnot cycle and heat engines, kinetic theory, ideal gas, kinetic interpretation of temperature and pressure, equipartition of energy, distribution of molecular speeds, Brownian motion, van der Waals equation.

SEPH203: Electricity and Magnetism

The module covers current and charge, Gauss’s law and applications, dielectrics, magnetic fields and forces. Force on a current-carrying conductor and magnetic field. The magnetising field, magnetic susceptibility and permeability, Ohm’s law, transformers, capacitors, Electrostatics, Cathode Ray Oscilloscope, The CRO as a voltmeter, a clock, and a display device.

SEPH204: Electronics and Electronic Communication

The module focuses on the following areas: Switching algebra, logic devices, combinational logic devices and Data flow model – -analysis and synthesis, data processing devices, data routing devices, sequential logic devices and FSM model mixed logic circuits, modular design of devices   RTL architecture, analogue electronic devices and their models, analogue systems and their models. It shall also address digital transmission, analogue transmission, synchronous, asynchronous, and isochronous transmission modes, transmission media, circuit switching, packet switching, frame relay, routing: interior routing and exterior routing.

SEPH205: Quantum Physics and Solid State

The module shall cover atomic structure and atomic bonding, crystal structure, electrical and thermal conductivity of solids, Band theory, conductors, semiconductors, insulators, electronic properties and processes of semiconductors, the diode law, semiconductor devices; capacitors, resistors, diodes, transistors and thyristors, integrated circuits. It shall also address quantum mechanical principles.