The module content and teaching style has undergone revision since 2006-07. There are two reasons for this. First, this was the first year that Prof Badcock was responsible for the module.
Secondly, a new aerodynamics module was to be introduced in 0708 into the 4 year of the Aerospace MEng to cover configurational aerodynamics, which will consider case studies in three dimensional aerodynamics. To allow realistic case studies to be considered it is essential that you are able to use modern software and experimental tools to simulate aerodynamics, and generate realistic data. This requirement sets the tone for the current module, which deals with two dimensional aerodynamics. We will be taking a practical approach to the study of aerodynamics, with generation of realistic data being the focus. Underlying theory still has a crucial role to play, but is used here for the understanding and interpretation of data. For 2010-11 the assessment has been changed.
The module will provide a number of opportunities for student learning. The approaches adopted are guided reading, laboratories using modern software, experiments using a new wind tunnel and projects to allow your new skills and knowledge to be exercised. The module has been designed so that these aspects should re-enforce each other, and you need to put full effort into all aspects. Details are given in the next section.
An important secondary objective of the course is to encourage independent learning. The onus is placed on you to do the following things:
(a) do the guided reading, be prepared to struggle a bit, and come up with your own understanding. Deep understanding often does not come easily.
(b) use the lecturer (and classes) to help you to understand topics that you are having particular difficulty with. You will need to be more active in the classes than for a normal lecture based course. The exam will reward you for deep understanding and abilities in aerodynamics. If you engage with the
course throughout then this is likely to be rewarded. If you don't, then you are unlikely to be able to be able to pass by cramming at the last minute for the exam.
Feel free to provide constructive feedback to Prof Badcock - with a combination of your efforts and his, the module can be a very productive one.