3B014E - Engineering in Action: From Theory to Practice 01 Sep 2026 - 31 Jul 2031 | Version 0

Associated Module Information

Module Code: 3B014E
Module Title: Engineering in Action: From Theory to Practice
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Engineering
Faculty Sub Group: Engineering
Module Leader: Robert Warren
Module Team:
First Intended Intake: SEP 2030 Final Year of Intake:
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 30 Credit Level: 3
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100114 - aeronautical engineering 100115 - aerospace engineering 100148 - civil engineering 100150 - construction and the built environment 100163 - electrical and electronic engineering
HECOS Code Weighting: 20 20 20 20 20

Document Version Information

Version 0
Valid From 01 Sep 2026
Valid To 31 Jul 2031

Module Aims

  • Develop practical skills in simulated settings and link theory with practical problems and challenges 

  • Gain an appreciation for the importance of interdisciplinary learning and knowledge 

Content Summary

This module aims to combine theoretical knowledge with practical understanding of real-world engineering challenges. The module will consist of classroom-based theory tutorials/seminars followed by an immersive practical experience (such as a laboratory experiment or other practical activity) from a variety of engineering disciplines. Students will gain practical experience in experimental techniques, scientific methods, technical communication skills, and interdisciplinary awareness. As part of the broader foundation year course, this module plays a vital role in bridging academic learning with professional practice. It helps students contextualise core scientific and mathematical principles by applying them to authentic engineering problems, fostering both confidence and curiosity. The emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration encourages students to appreciate the interconnected nature of engineering fields, supporting progression into specialised degree pathways. Furthermore, by building communication and teamwork skills alongside technical competence, the module aligns with the foundation year’s overarching goal of preparing students to thrive in university-level study and the professional engineering environment. 

“He who loves practice without theory is like the sailor who boards ship without a rudder and compass and never knows where he may cast.” ~ Leonardo da Vinci 

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Practical classes & Workshops 56
Problem/Challenge Based Learning 170
Formative Assessment 14
Summative Assessment 60
Total Hours Selected 300

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Understand basic Engineering concepts and solve exercises in a range of Engineering and Built Environment disciplines
LO2 Apply understanding of basic Engineering and Built Environment concepts in controlled simulated environments

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Portfolio 1 The logbook will act as both a record of achievement and a developmental tool, allowing students to demonstrate progressive learning and skill acquisition over time. 0 1500 100 No 100

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Portfolio 1

Reading List

Davis, M. (1998) Thinking like an engineer: studies in the ethics of a profession. Association for Practical and Professional Ethics. New York ; Oxford : Oxford University Press 

Cottrell, S. (2013) The study skills handbook. Fourth edition. Basingstoke, Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan.