Scenario weeks

Scenario weeks were developed as intensive project-based learning experiences directly derived from the taught material that students are studying. They are deliberately isolated in the timetable to allow students to focus completely on the scenario activity taking place that week. The projects undertaken aim to encourage integration of knowledge from across the material studies, development of interpersonal and professional skills as well as acquisition of new knowledge through enquiry.  

Each department runs six scenarios (eight in Management Science) for their students, covering a wide range of topics and involving all aspects of the design cycle from requirements capture to build and test activities. This structure gives departmental teaching teams the freedom to align scenario weeks methodically with the rest of their students' learning on their degree programmes. Some occasionally collaborate with industry (from startups to well-established companies), third-sector professionals and/or regional communities to enhance their scenarios.

Watch: Biomedical Engineering B/MEng students during a Scenario Week

Students often cite these weeks as a highlight: as an intense and sometimes stressful but authentic opportunity to put classroom learning from their programmes into practice. Most importantly, they provide repeated opportunities for students to practice teamwork and communications skills which are developed in parallel by a design and professorial practice programme (our Design and Professional Skills modules).