The module contains 2 units intended for work based learning directed by purpose-written learning material.
Unit 4 Ceramics, Unit 5 Measurement and control

Student (tutor assessed) assignments have been designed to cover the range of Kiln firing activities. This includes aspects of ceramics, drying, kiln control and supporting activities. These sections are collectively structures in logicial progression building up the student's understanding and appreciation of the underlying technology step by step.

Two pieces of COURSEWORK weighted at 100% in total.

1) Written annotated technical notes and essay answers specific to drying and factors affecting drying, types of ceramic firing including body properties and the effect of time, temperature, atmosphere, firing schedule plus the reactions that occur during firing Unit 4, learning outcomes 1, 2 & 3

2) Written annotated technical notes and essay answers specific to on site sensor and instrument, kiln and dryer controls discussing practice and reasoning. Unit 5 learning outcomes 1, 2 & 3

This is a distance learning course in which students progress at their own pace and in a place of their choosing. Students are generally placed on the course by their employer. Contact with the students is by phone and email directly and via their in-company tutor and other in-company support. A handbook providing guidelines on the presentation of tutor based assignments and advises on how to gain maximum use of available university support (through e-mail and phone). Students are encouraged to maintain close contact with their in-company tutor and regularly discuss their coursework progress. Learning from direct observation within the factory and from colleagues engaged in different tasks of the production process is sought via the assignment work contained.

North American Combustion Handbook Vol. I: Combustion, Fuels, Stoichiometry, Heat Transfer, Fluid Flow Richard J. Reed, North American Manufacturing Company ISBN 0960159622Britain¿s Offshore Oil and Gas, HMSO
Davey DJ et al Technician Instrumentation and Control Cassell Tec series
Safe Operation of Kilns HSE 1993, ISBN 0717606309

A Ceramic production site or similar production site using kilns is essential. Access to the internet and local library to expand the foundation knowledge-base provided by the individual sections is desirable, plus reference to additional material provided or specified by the University tutorial staff, together with the Course Handbook.

Appropriate employment