This module will introduce you to the latest thinking in the areas of clean energy technology, addressing cross-border challenges, and knowledge management practices focusing on global energy solutions. Having established the vital link between international organisations, the focus will be on a global ‘design project’ addressing innovation and value creation. The module uses directed reading, case study exercises, and group-based creative problem solving to focus on the transition towards a clean energy society. You will be introduced to a variety of creative problem solving techniques and learn how to apply these techniques in the context of the development, evaluation, and application of ideas and concepts with practical potential in an international context.
In the current climate of downscaling fossil fuel use, restructuring energy systems and technological change, notions of traditional careers and ways of creating value have all been challenged. As part of the COP26 agreement, governments have committed to addressing temperature rise and climate change. Collaborative global approaches will be essential to realise success, and this module will develop skills for global working to advance clean energy solutions. The aim of this module is to provide you with knowledge and skills relevant for international collaboration and careers in the clean energy sector. It challenges you to work in a group environment to design your own solution to a clean energy challenge, and culminates in you pitching your own innovative thinking opportunities to peers and academic and industry stakeholders.
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)
Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
1 Demonstrate an ability to address technical challenges in clean energy using global thinking approaches
2 Design and manage a group project from initial stages to completion
3 Work and communicate effectively as part of a global team using online collaborative tools
Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
4 Apply appropriate problem solving techniques to specific challenges
5 Apply engineering and project management principles to design clean energy solutions
6 Demonstrate a systems approach to a clean energy challenge
Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and Knowledge:
7 Report at a professional level on project outcomes in both a written and oral format
8 Demonstrate a high level of a professional and ethical conduct
SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module
Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, an example of an overall structure is as follows:
The module is delivered over two terms. During term 1, students develop an understanding of working on an international platform through case study exercises, visiting international guest lecturers and group-based creative problem solving. In term 2, students identify and develop a group design project addressing a clean energy challenge with an international perspective.
Term 1:
The first part of term 1 focuses on case studies highlighting clean energy challenges and opportunities in different countries, leading you to develop an understanding of, and reflect critically on, specific requirements for regions in the global context. Real world case studies are used to highlight the need for a global approach to identify commercially, socially and technically viable clean energy solutions. You will use this learning in the later part of term 1 to develop collaborative working approaches in your own groups to research and plan the international design project.
Term 2:
The focus of term 2 is the implementation of the design project. You are required to use the learning outcomes from term 1 and put them into practice to deliver a professionally managed project. Support will be provided through academics and international mentors who will guide the project and enable a real-world working environment scenario.