Teaching and learning

The programme’s core curriculum is typically delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, and lab classes, as well as directed and self-directed learning supported by teaching materials and resources, published through the online virtual learning environment. Each module employs a teaching strategy that aligns with and supports its intended learning outcomes.

Hands-on work is a key element of this programme, and practical classes and workshops are integrated throughout the curriculum. Lectures, seminars, and tutorials build up the theoretical learning that can be applied to the practical work. Demonstrations and site visits allow you to understand and visualise the real-world implementation of sensor systems, while guest speakers from industry provide yet more context alongside our world-renowned academics.

As UCL Computer Science is the home of the Multi-Sensory Devices Research Group, you will have further exposure to experts with both academic and start-up experience, who are working at the cutting edge of developments in sensor systems.

You will be assessed through a range of methods across the programme, including individual and group projects, written research reports, other coursework, programming tests, and a final research project/ dissertation. The dissertation is an opportunity for you to work on a specific topic that is of particular interest to you. You will be invited to showcase your work at a fair attended by industry partners, the public, and venture capitalists.

Contact time takes a variety of forms, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, project supervisions, demonstrations, practical classes and workshops, visits, placements, office hours (where staff are available for consultation), email, videoconference, or other media, and situations where feedback on assessed work is given (one-to-one or in a group).

Each module has a credit value that indicates the total notional learning hours a learner will spend on average to achieve its learning outcomes. One credit is typically described as being equal to 10 hours of notional learning, which includes all contact time, self-directed study, and assessment.

The contact time for each of your 15 credit taught modules will typically include 22-30 hours of teaching activity over the term of its delivery, with the balance then comprised of self-directed learning and working on your assessments. You will have ongoing contact with teaching staff via each module’s online discussion forum, which is typically used for discussing and clarifying concepts or assessment matters and will have the opportunity to access additional support via regular office hours with module leaders and programme directors.

Your research project/ dissertation module is 60 credits and will include regular contact with your project supervisor(s), who will guide and support you throughout your project. You will dedicate most of your time on this module to carrying out research in connection with your project and writing up your final report.