The purpose of the module is to assess the placement period which the student has undertaken, in industry, on a full-time basis between Level 2 and Level 3 study periods; thus providing a formal mechanism for gaining real credit towards their (sandwich) degree.

Whilst the period in industry, in order to qualify as a sandwich placement, is a minimum of 38 weeks, the module seeks to identify relevant project work which constitutes a minimum of 150 hours.

The module, therefore, requires the student to undertake, within the total elapsed time of the placement, (a) structured piece(s) of project work, relevant to the company which ensures that the learning outcomes are demonstrated.

The work, based upon past experience, can be varied but will be tailored to the students needs whilst satisfying the company requirements. This will be negotiated between the placement manager (module tutor), visiting tutor, the student and his/her industrial supervisor.

Coursework weighted at 100% in total which will assess all Learning Outcomes.

Based upon the students work in the agreed 150 hour period whilst in industry, a formal assessment will take place and predominantly takes the form of an interview and presentation. In preparation for this interview/presentation the student is expected to produce three reports:-

* A short resume of the work undertaken during the placement, including a critical evaluation of the experience gained.
* A longer report on some technical project/aspect within the placement, containing a significant amount of analysis, together with a critical appraisal of the work undertaken by the student. Wherever possible, the content and nature of the work should reflect the specific aims of the Named Award.
* A report on the business operations of the organisation, showing an understanding of the factors which are important to commercial success.
The reports would typically be no more than 7,000 words in length.

The interview is conducted by a panel, constituted as follows:-

- Chair (representative of the University)
- An "independent" member of academic staff from within the School
- The Visiting Tutor
- A representative from the organisation at which the placement was undertaken will be invited to attend.

Following the interview, the panel will decide upon a final grade, taking into account the visiting tutors report (30%), written reports from the students (40%) and the performance in the interview (30%).

Attendance at two seminars (CV writing and interview techniques) will be part of the initial preparation strategy.
Evidence of an induction period in the company will be required.
Project work will be identified and agreed as indicated in Indicative Content.
A log book, or portfolio, of the students work will be maintained throughout the placement period.
Detailed reports will be prepared by the student and presentations, meetings etc will be undertaken as appropriate.
Advice and guidance will be given by the visiting tutor via visits, email, fax, telephone communication.
The use of appropriate library resources, and internet application will be encouraged.
Learning from colleagues at work (discussion with colleagues) and working as part of a team are important aspects of the learning strategy.

Appropriate resources in the work place, internet, library access as required.

Guidelines (information pack) for placement students (FCET).
Attendance at interview skills seminar and CV writing seminar (organised by FCET).

1. KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE IDENTIFIED AND AGREED PROGRAMMES OF WORK FROM WITHIN THE PLACEMENT PERIOD AMOUNTING TO AT LEAST 150 HOURS OF APPROPRIATE INDUSTRIAL WORK.
(Knowledge & Understanding)

2. CRITICALLY APPRAISE APPROPRIATE TECHNICAL, BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY RELATED ISSUES.
(Analysis)

3. WORK AS A MEMBER OF AN (INTER-DISCIPLINARY?) TEAM AND DEMONSTRATE A RANGE OF COMMUNICATION SKILLS.
(Communication)

4. UNDERTAKE A PROFESSIONAL PRESENTATION ON TECHNICAL AND BUSINESS RELATED ASPECTS OF THE PLACEMENT.
(Application, Communication)