421-106 Engineering Communication & Computing

Subject assumes knowledge of VCE Mathematical Methods units 3 and 4.

This subject is intended to develop oral, written, numerical and graphical communication skills and assist students in the transition of tertiary studies. The media for that development will be library and database facilities, word processing, computational, spreadsheet and drawing software packages. The course will develop research skills and the ability to cite and incorporate other work; it will develop basic numerical knowledge and apply that knowledge in the use of computational packages, including spreadsheets for engineering applications and research. The subject will also develop skills in the presentation of that knowledge in the form of reports, and will develop professional skills in computer-aided drafting and the interpretation and use of engineering drawings. The subject will also develop group interaction skills, generic skills attributes and incorporate a transition program.

• ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals

• ability to communicate effectively, not only with engineers but also with the community at large

• ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution

• capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning

A process of continuous assessment by six short tests (10% for 1 + 40% for the remainder) plus two assignments of 2000 words or equivalent (30% + 20%). Both assignments are due in the second half of the semester. Students must submit all assignments and achieve an aggregate grade of at least 50% in the tests in order to pass the subject.