undergraduate programme handbook for chemistry (year 2...

Undergraduate Programme Handbook for Chemistry (Year 2)

2013/14

PART A – SCHOOL INFORMATION 2

1 Summary of Key Information 2

2 Welcome and Introduction 3

3 General Information about the School 3

4 Key staff and office locations 9

5 Programme Overview 10

6 Programme Structure and Delivery 11

PART B – UNIVERSITY INFORMATION 22

B1. Ordinances and Regulations 22

B2. Quick Finder Guide to Academic Support Services 22

B3. Quick Finder Guide to Student Administration and Support Services 22

University Policy and Guidance 22

APPENDIX A: Student Guide to Plagiarism 22

APPENDIX B: Plan of the William Perkin Building 22

APPENDIX C: Campus Map 22

APPENDIX D: Campus Building Abbreviations 22

Programme Handbook for Chemistry (Year 2)

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PART A – SCHOOL INFORMATION

1 Summary of Key Information 1.1. KEY CONTACTS IN CHEMISTRY

Director of Studies : Dr J. W. G. Bos WP 2.09

[email protected]

Head of Chemistry Teaching: Dr J. H. Cameron WP 2.05

[email protected]

Undergraduate Secretary: Ms L. Roy JN 1.07*

(Chemistry) [email protected]

EPS Student Service Centre: JN 1.07* (General enquiries)

[*JN = James Naysmith Building] [email protected]

1.2. KEY CONTACTS ELSEWHERE IN THE UNIVERSITY

Welfare Services/Special Needs : Ms M. Patten (Hugh Nisbet Bldg) [email protected]

1.3. SIGNIFICANT DATES IN ACADEMIC YEAR

Semester 1 : 10 September − 14 December 2012

Semester 2 : 7 January − 17 May 2013

Resits: 1 − 9 August 2013

1.4. LINKS TO FURTHER INFORMATION/SERVICES

University Website : http://www.hw.ac.uk

Chemistry Website : http://www.eps.hw.ac.uk/institutes/chemical-sciences.htm VISION Website : https://vision.hw.ac.uk/

Registry Website : http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/

Examination timetables : http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examination-timetables.php


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2 Welcome and Introduction

2.1 Welcome from the Principal of Heriot-Watt University

I am delighted to welcome you as a student of Heriot-Watt University!

Heriot-Watt University has a well earned reputation as Scotland's most international and outward-looking University. With three campuses in Scotland (attended by a high percentage of students from across the world), a new Campus in Dubai, a new Campus in Malaysia which has opened in September 2012, and Learning Partner institutions across the world, we have a vibrant and diverse learning culture which is unique and unmatched by other universities in the United Kingdom. We are keen to give our students the opportunity to develop an international dimension to their studies which will enhance their opportunities for future growth. Students at all our campus locations are an important part of our global community and I very much hope you enjoy your time with us. Professor Steve Chapman Principal and Vice-Chancellor

2.2 Welcome from the Head of the School of Engineering & Physical Sciences

We have produced this handbook in order to answer many of the questions that students may have during their studies here, including administrative procedures relating to the running of their degree programme and the support services available to them. We hope you will find this information useful. If you are in any doubt as to the meaning of any of the material in this document, then do not hesitate asking any of your lecturers. They will all be delighted to help you. Professor S. McLaughlin Head of School

3 General Information about the School

3.1 THE CHEMISTRY DISCIPLINE STUDENT CHARTER

What you can expect of us:

• We will endeavour to provide you with the highest possible standard of education in chemistry.

• We will give you support, encouragement and the technical back-up to develop your skills as a practising professional chemist.


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• We will set assignments, laboratory and tutorial work designed to challenge your skills and ensure that you are developing your professional competencies.

• We will provide you with an academic mentor who will look after you through your entire period in Chemistry.

• We will make available any advice and help you may need to cope successfully with your programme, or, where more appropriate, direct you to alternative sources of help, for example the Student Welfare Services.

• We will monitor your progress and provide feedback and guidance if any problems become evident.

What we will expect of you:

• We expect you to adopt a professional approach to your work, and to put

in the necessary level of effort to achieve a successful outcome. • We expect you to attend all of the timetabled classes for your programme

of study, and to participate fully in the work of the class. • We expect you to hand in all assignments and laboratory reports on

schedule. • In any cases where you experience difficulty, we expect you to discuss (in

confidence) the matter with your academic mentor or Study Director as soon as possible.

• If you miss any classes, we expect you to inform your Study Director as soon as possible.

3.2 INTRODUCTION

The object of this document is to provide a ready reference for students already familiar with the Chemistry programmes, as well as for new students entering directly into Year 2 of the Chemistry programmes. It is ESSENTIAL that you read it as it contains a great deal of information of which you must be aware. Keep this handbook in a safe place because you will need to refer to it over the year.

If you are a new student, welcome. You have made an excellent choice for your place of study. Heriot-Watt Chemistry graduates are highly thought of by employers and successful completion of your degree will open many doors of opportunity for you in your future career. If you are a returning student, welcome back. You will find out pretty soon that Year 2 is MUCH MORE DEMANDING than your first year at University. If you adopt an effective and efficient working method, this will stand you in good stead for the more challenging material in Year 2 and in later years of the programme, so it is really important to develop good work habits from day one. Many students struggle because they fail to start their programme in the correct manner. Advice on studying is available from your mentor, your Study Director, and from the Student Welfare Services, and indeed from students in the later years of your programme.


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3.3 CHEMISTRY AT HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY

3.3.1 What goes on in the William Perkin Building ? Your main contact with academic staff will be in lectures, tutorials and lab classes but, as well as the teaching that takes place during the undergraduate semesters, members of staff also have research groups that become their priority when you aren't here. The demonstrators that you will meet in the laboratories are postgraduate students doing research toward their PhD degrees and this research covers many different and exciting areas at the cutting-edge of chemistry. You will learn more about what research goes on as you progress through the course, and indeed in Year 4 (BSc) or Year 5 (MChem) you will carry out an original research project of your own.

3.3.2 How do I find my way around? If you are new to Heriot-Watt, the University may seem very large but very quickly you will become familiar with your new surroundings. To aid you, floor plans of the William Perkin Building are provided in Appendix B of this document. If in doubt, ask for directions.

3.3.3 Whom do I see if I have problems? Of course, we very much hope that you do not experience problems during your time at Heriot-Watt but the reality is that many people need a little extra help and/or guidance on academic or personal matters at various stages. At such times, it is very important to remember that you are not alone and that confidential help is always available from several sources. Please confront and deal with any problems as they arise and don't ignore them, or let them drag on as this generally only makes things worse. Help and advice is available from the following sources :-

Your Study Director — Dr J. W. G. Bos, Chemistry, Room WP 2.09 My role is to look after the interests of the class as a whole and I try to ensure that all students are developing academically and professionally. You may approach me at any stage on academic matters, such as programme changes, course transfers, problems with a lecture course, timetable clashes, etc. I monitor attendance and performance and if you have any problems of this nature, they should be brought to my attention immediately, so that help and advice can be given to you without delay.

Your Mentor As a student in Chemistry, you have been assigned a MENTOR — an academic member of staff who will advise you during the whole of your time here. Your mentor should be the first person that you go to see if you have problems of any type — academic or personal. You have our guarantee that anything you tell your mentor in confidence will be kept strictly confidential. If your mentor cannot help you directly, he or she is very likely to know someone who can. You may visit your mentor at any stage of the year for a private meeting. At the very least, YOU MUST GO TO SEE YOUR MENTOR DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF EVERY SEMESTER. At the beginning of semester 2, your mentor will be the person who tells you how you performed in your December exams. On this


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occasion you will discuss with your mentor how things went the previous semester, and it enables us to check that all is well with you. Your mentor will keep a record of how you are doing and where to contact you (although you should also inform the University about any change of address since official letters from the University or your Study Director will be mailed only to the official address that is on the database). The mentor will also keep a note of any extra information about other activities that you're involved in — this helps us to give you a reference when you are beginning to look for jobs towards the end of your course. An academic reference is an important part of the job application process. It is worth remembering that your attitude to your work, your commitment and involvement in the programme, and your overall attendance record play an important part in such a reference, as potential employers always ask about these issues when they request a reference.

University Welfare Services The University has a very efficient and helpful Welfare Service designed to aid students with any problems that may arise, be they academic, personal or financial (http://www.hw.ac.uk/welfare/contacts.htm). This service operates completely independently from Chemistry, and all discussions are strictly confidential. The advisers have vast experience of helping students through difficulties. Appointments are made through the Welfare Office located in the Hugh Nisbet Building, opposite the Students Association Shop.

3.3.4 Undergraduate Committees During your time at Heriot-Watt I hope that you will wish to help us run the Chemistry Discipline as smoothly and effectively as possible by taking part in various committees. 3.3.4.1 The Student–Staff Liaison Committee has a membership of undergraduate representatives, two from each of the undergraduate years, and three academic staff members. It meets every semester and discusses any matters which undergraduates or others wish to raise. The minutes of these meetings are posted on the general undergraduate notice board, and are fed back to the Chemistry Teaching Group (whose members are all teaching staff) for action. Student feedback is one of the main mechanisms for enabling us to develop the course, so please ensure you tell your representatives your thoughts and ideas — or better still become a committee member yourself and put your and your fellow-students' views across directly.

3.3.4.2 The Student Chemical Society is one of the largest student societies on campus and runs a variety of social, scientific and sporting events throughout the year. The society is run by students for students and all of the undergraduate years have representatives on the Organising Committee so please consider joining it. Events normally range from a Cheese and Wine Party early in the first semester, to barbecues, to football, squash and snooker competitions, to brewery visits, to pub quiz nights, to ... well, almost anything. Indeed the Committee welcomes suggestions for new events from any student. News of current and forthcoming events is posted on the notice board for Year 1 in the "Crush Area" of the Chemistry Building.


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3.4 CHEMISTRY AND UNIVERSITY FACILITIES

3.4.1 Chemistry Facilities The focal point in the Chemistry building is the "Crush Area", in the central part of the 1st floor. Here you will find a drinks vending machine, snack machine, notice boards. There is a notice board specifically for Year 2 and important information is posted there on a regular basis. You should check the notice boards at least once a week. The most important rooms in the Chemistry (William Perkin) building are: WP 1.02 PC Computer Room WP 1.04 Esso Teaching Resources Room WP 1.11 Practical Laboratory — Organic Chemistry WP 2.25 Practical Laboratory — Physical Chemistry & Inorganic Chemistry WP 2.05 Head of Chemistry Teaching — Dr J. H. Cameron WP 2.16 Head of Institute of Chemical Sciences — Prof S. A. Macgregor WP 2.09 Second Year Director of Studies office — Dr J. W. G. Bos The EPS Student Support Centre is located in the James Naysmith Building (room NS 1.07), and the Chemistry contact there is Ms Linda Roy.

Lockers for your personal effects are distributed around the building, and one will be assigned to you at your first lab session by the technician(s) in the second-floor teaching lab. Note that you may need to provide your own small padlock for the locker.

3.4.2 University Facilities

3.4.2.1 Library A very wide range of chemistry books and journals are kept in the central University Library, as well as a variety of information retrieval systems. For direct entry students, an orientation session is arranged at the beginning of semester 1.

3.4.2.2 Photo-copying There are photo-copying machines in the Library. They operate from magnetically-coded cards that you can buy from vending machines adjacent to the copiers.

3.4.2.3 Medical Facilities All students who are not living at home and consequently do not have access to their family doctor during semester time are strongly advised to register with a doctor in the Edinburgh area. If you are living on the Riccarton campus or in its vicinity, you are recommended to register with the University Health Service, which provides both medical and dental facilities and is located in the Health Centre on the Avenue, adjacent to Leonard Horner Hall. The phone no. is 451 3010.


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3.4.2.4 Other University Contacts Tel. No.

1. Student Welfare Services 0131 451 3386 2. Student Counselling Mrs. Morag Patten – Welfare Officer 0131 451 3387 Ms Lorraine Vallance – Special Needs Adviser 0131 451 3509 Ms Lesley West – Student Funding Administrator 0131 451 3613 University Chaplaincy 0131 451 4508 3. Students’ Association 0131 451 5333 4. Centre for Sport and Exercise General Enquiries, Bookings 0131 451 8400 5. Emergency Services 2222 (or any red phone) You will find a red phone mounted on the wall in the middle of most corridors of academic buildings. On picking up the phone it will automatically ring through to staff in the University switchboard.

3.4.3 Computers

3.4.3.1 Local to Chemistry The main computer room for undergraduates is WP 1.02, which has 20 PC terminals and an associated laser printer. This room will be open and available to you generally for independent work, access to the internet, etc., as it is for the other undergraduate years. Note that this is a general student facility, open to all undergraduates outside of timetabled sessions, and you should also note that you are entitled to use any of the other general access computer rooms throughout the campus.

3.4.3.2 University The central computing facilities are provided by the Computer Centre, including the host servers, central printers and plotters, and public terminals, together with a network of personal computers (all running on Windows). There is a similar PC network situated in the Library.

All members of the University are eligible to use these facilities. It is necessary to first register with the Computer Centre to obtain a username and password which will allow access; most students do this when they first enrol for university. The Computer Centre maintains an Information Service and a Help Desk, together with a wide range of other on-line help and information services. Contact them for further information, or if you have problems with hardware or software.


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4 Key staff and office locations Name Initials Room No. Phone No. E-mail

Professor D. R. Adams DRA 1.23 8021 [email protected]

Dr V. Arrighi VA 3.28 3108 [email protected]

Dr M. W. P. Bebbington MWPB 1.22 8071 [email protected]

Dr J.-W. G. Bos JWGB 2.09 3102 [email protected]

Dr J. H. Cameron JHC 2.05 3104 [email protected]

Dr M. L. Costen MLC G.31 8197 [email protected]

Dr S. J. Dalgarno SJD 2.04 8025 [email protected]

Dr D. Ellis DE G.22 8038 [email protected]

Professor M. Gutowski MG 2.36 3083 [email protected]

Dr S. J. Greaves SJG G.30 [email protected]

Dr. J. P. Henderson JPH JN2.34* 3470 [email protected]

Dr. N. M. Howarth NMH 2.08 8026 [email protected]

Dr A. Kraft AK 2.41 8040 [email protected]

Dr A.-L. Lee A-LL 1.21 8030 [email protected]

Professor M. R. S. McCoustra

MRSM G.29 4292 [email protected]

Dr K. J. McCullough KJM DB3.12* 8029 [email protected]

Professor S. A. Macgregor SAM 2.16 8031 [email protected]

Professor K. G. McKendrick KGM 2.15 3109 [email protected]

Dr N. H. Nahler NHN [email protected]

Dr M. J. Paterson MJP G.04 8035 [email protected]

Professor A. V. Powell AVP 2.02 8034 [email protected]

Dr C. Rickman CR 2.03 4193 [email protected]

Dr G. M. Rosair GMR G.03 8036 [email protected]

Dr P. Vaqueiro PV 2.38 3759 [email protected]

Professor A. J. Welch AJW 2.23 3217 [email protected]

*DB is David Brewster Building, JN = James Naysmith Building (see Appendix C)


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5 Programme Overview

Heriot-Watt University reserves the right to update materials from time to time and will ensure that advance notification concerning changes to materials is provided to students on the relevant section of the University website. It is the responsibility of students to check the website, particularly if they are returning to studies after a period during which their studies have been in abeyance.

5.1 SUMMARY OF THE PROGRAMMES

Currently there are 20 Honours degree programmes in Chemistry: BSc and MChem degrees in:- Chemistry; Chemistry with Computational Chemistry; Chemistry with Materials; Chemistry with Biochemistry; Chemistry with Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Chemistry with Management; Chemistry with a Year in Australia; and MChem degrees in Chemistry with Industrial Experience; Chemistry with Forensic Science; Chemistry with a Year in North America; Chemistry with a European Language; Chemistry with a Year in Europe; and Chemistry with Nanotechnology. There are also two BSc (Ordinary) degrees in Chemistry and in Chemistry as the Main Subject. Although this seems rather complicated, there is flexibility in the system allowing transfer between programmes, in some cases as late as the end of Year 2 (although the earlier you decide to change the better). If you require details of the programme structure for later years, check the link on VISION, or discuss it with your mentor or study director. The final choice between BSc or MChem must be made by the end of Year 3, and the decision on this includes consideration of your performance in Chemistry courses up to that point.

5.2 The Masters in Chemistry (MChem) Degree Programmes

The MChem degrees (MChem in Chemistry and the various MChem “with” degrees) are enhanced first degrees involving 5 years of study. These degrees have been introduced nationally (and across Europe) over recent years and have become the standard qualification in Chemistry. The MChem and BSc (Honours) Chemistry degree programmes are identical up until the end of Year 3. In Year 4, MChem students pursue various advanced practical courses in place of the Honours dissertation. In Year 5 an extended research project is undertaken in addition to four taught courses. We would greatly encourage all students to consider seriously taking an MChem degree. We perceive the major benefits of these enhanced degrees to be as follows:

• With an enhanced degree you will be given the opportunity to broaden

your knowledge and to stretch your abilities further.


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• This greater knowledge base will make you much more competitive in the job market, especially as you will be competing with students qualified at MChem level graduating from other institutions.

• The Year 5 extended project will give you a far greater experience of a research environment and will help you make a better informed choice for a future career.

• Most universities require an MChem or equivalent Masters qualification as a prerequisite for anyone applying to do a PhD.

• Graduates holding an MChem degree qualify for immediate CChem (Chartered Chemist) status. CChem is the professional accreditation scheme administered by the Royal Society of Chemistry and acknowledges the attainment of the necessary level of experience and ability to act as a professional chemist (see http://www.rsc.org/Membership/join/CharteredStatus/cchem.asp).

Should you have any questions regarding the MChem degree programmes ask your mentor, study director or speak to the MChem Study Director: Professor Ken McKendrick (Room WP 2.15).

6 Programme Structure and Delivery

In Year 2 you will take 8 courses :- 6 in Chemistry and 2 in an optional subject (which may depend on your choice of "Chemistry with" degree). Modular exams are taken at the end of each semester, usually in the final two weeks, whereas synoptic exams covering the topics of the whole year are scheduled after the second semester. A copy of the descriptors for all Chemistry courses that you will take this year is available through VISION for every core Chemistry course in a folder entitled "Timetables, forms, handbook" where you can also find useful links to frequently used forms, the Year 2 handbook and information on course descriptors and programme structures. Link to course descriptors: http://internal.eps.hw.ac.uk/subjects/chemistry/courses.htm These descriptors give information on the material to be discussed in each course, a statement of the learning outcomes, and summarise the assessment procedures. Link to Chemistry programme structures and their progression requirements: http://internal.eps.hw.ac.uk/subjects/chemistry/programmes.htm


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Timetables for each semester will be made available on the following University

website about one week before the start of semester : http://timetable.hw.ac.uk/hwx/edx1213/default.aspx

The following six core Chemistry courses are mandatory in Year 2:

Semester 1 Semester 2

B18IA1 - Atomic & Molecular Structure & Chemical Bonding

B18OA1 - Organic Structural Identification, Stereochemistry & Reaction Mechanisms

B18PA1 - Chemical Thermodynamics &

Introductory Chemical Kinetics

B18IB2 - Chemistry of the Elements

B18OB2 - Synthesis in Organic Chemistry

B18PB2 - Atomic & Molecular Spectroscopy

Electives can be chosen from an approved list. They are subject to approval by the study director and have to be compatible with the timetable. Clearly you cannot choose an option that you have already passed in Year 1.


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A list of available electives is provided underneath. Note that many "Chemistry with ..." degrees have a mandatory 4th course; in these cases there, will be no choice.

Semester 1 Semester 2 A18HM1 - Human Metabolism BSc/MChem in Chemistry with Biochemistry BSc/MChem in Chemistry with Pharmaceutical Chemistry B18CC1 - Pigments, Dyes & Fibres MChem in Chemistry with Forensic Science F18XC1 - Maths for Scientists and Engineers 3 MChem in Chemistry with Nanotechnology BSc/MChem in Chemistry with Materials MChem in Chemistry with Computational Chemistry F18SR - Foundation Mathematics C C17MA1 - Management 1 BSc/MChem in Chemistry with Management This course is NOT available as an elective. C47AX1 - Arabic Beginners Elective 1 C47AP1 - Arabic Post-Beginners Elective 1 C47BX - British Sign Language 1 C47CE1 - Chinese Beginners Elective 1 C47FX1 - French Post-Beginners Elective 1 C47GX1 - German Beginners Elective 1 C47GP1 - German Post Beginners Elective1 C47RX1 - Russian Beginners Elective 1 C47SX1 - Spanish Beginners Elective 1 C47SP1 - Spanish Post-Beginners Elective 1

A18MC2 - Introductory Molecular and Cell Biology BSc/MChem in Chemistry with Biochemistry BSc/MChem in Chemistry with Pharmaceutical Chemistry B18FM2 – Forensic Methods MChem in Chemistry with Forensic Science F18XD2 - Maths for Scientists and Engineers 4 MChem in Chemistry with Nanotechnology BSc/MChem in Chemistry with Materials MChem in Chemistry with Computational Chemistry F78SC2 - Statistics for Science C17MB2 - Management 2 BSc/MChem in Chemistry with Management This course is NOT available as an elective. C47AY2 - Arabic Beginners Elective 2 C47AQ2 - Arabic Post-Beginners Elective 2 C47BY - British Sign Language 2 C47CF2 - Chinese Beginners Elective 2 C47FY2 - French Post-Beginners Elective 2 C47GY2 - German Beginners Elective 2 C47GQ2 - German Post Beginners Elective 2 C47RY2 - Russian Beginners Elective 2 C47SY2 - Spanish Beginners Elective 2 C47SQ2 - Spanish Post-Beginners Elective 2

The language courses for students on the European Language degree are:

Semester 1 Semester 2

C47LF1 - French Intermediate 1 C47LG1 - German Intermediate 1 C47LE1 - Spanish Intermediate 1

C47MF2 - French Intermediate 2 C47MG2 - German Intermediate 2 C47ME2 - Spanish Intermediate 2

Students on the Year in Europe degree should consult the Study Director which language course is appropriate.


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6.1 TEACHING AND LEARNING It is very important that you develop the habit of working through the entire semester, ensuring you understand what is being taught, as you go along. University semesters are shorter than you think and exam time comes quickly enough so do not delay getting down to work. Careful planning of workload is a key to success. Ensure that you tackle all assignments in good time. It is a good idea to have a work diary, to map out what is required of you on a weekly basis, to allow for effective planning on your part. More specific information and analysis of your own study methods can be had from an individual appointment with the University's Academic Counsellor, contactable via Student Welfare Services.

There are 4 main ways in which you will learn about chemistry while you are at Heriot-Watt.

6.1.1 Lectures The lecture is the main way that you pick up chemical facts. In chemistry, we regard attendance at lectures as COMPULSORY and this is monitored rigorously. If you miss lectures on a regular basis, this flags a warning that all is not well with you and we will try to find out why, so that we can offer help. Please note that it is a course requirement that you attend classes, so unless you have a genuine reason for any absence (in which case you should inform your study director), make sure you attend them all.

By now, you should have developed your own way of taking lecture notes and you will have appreciated that time is required to go over lecture notes very soon after the lecture, often with the help of the recommended text to augment and clarify your notes. PLEASE ENSURE YOU DO THIS — IT WILL AID YOU LEARNING ENORMOUSLY.

You should arrive on time for all lectures. Lectures start at 20 minutes past the hour, and finish at 10 minutes past.

We continually try to improve the lecture courses, so at the end of each semester you will be asked to complete a questionnaire. Your feedback, given anonymously, is extremely helpful and is taken very seriously. Please respond to calls for feedback. Of course, you are free to discuss points of interest with the lecturer at any stage, so you need not wait for the end of the semester to raise specific or even general issues.

6.1.2 Tutorials This is probably the most productive way of learning about chemistry if you participate to the full. Tutorials will require you to do quite a bit of work on your own beforehand, so that you can really benefit from the tutorial itself; usually you will be expected to carry out follow-up work after the tutorial. If you are having


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problems with a tutorial question, you should see your tutor before it is due to be completed — we are here to help you to understand chemistry, and effective tutorials require you to have had a good go at the associated assignment.

Your chemistry tutorials will be in a small group of around 8 – 12 students. You will be expected to talk through the relevant work of the tutorial and give explanations to your fellow students, so make sure that you prepare properly, and get involved in the tutorial discussions. Generally speaking, the more you contribute to a tutorial the more you will get out of it.

Note that tutorials are a COMPULSORY course requirement. You must attend all of them, and submit satisfactory written work on time.

You will have two chemistry tutorials every week in weeks 3 – 12 of each semester. These will operate as follows:-

(i) The tutorial assignment will be provided on VISION by the lecturer giving the course and must be attempted before the tutorial. You are required to hand in your attempts BEFORE the tutorial sessions, usually by Wednesday 5 pm, that is two days prior to the tutorial. This is important, as it allows the tutor to plan the tutorial for maximum benefit to all concerned.

(ii) Information about tutors, times and rooms will be indicated on the Year 2 Notice Board. Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you find out about the arrangements for each week's tutorial.

If for any reason you're having problems, please talk with your tutor (mentor), and if you have to miss a tutorial then you MUST inform your study director and your tutor of the reason as soon as possible and ideally beforehand.

6.1.3 Laboratory Work Laboratory work complements the lecture course material, and is a vital and mandatory component of the degree structure. You will do practical work in chemistry in most weeks of each semester. Semester 1 focuses on Physical and Organic, semester 2 on Organic and Inorganic Chemistry. Your lab work will count 20% to your synoptic mark in each of the three core Chemistry courses, so it is to your distinct advantage to do well in the laboratories. Please ensure that you hand in your lab reports on schedule. Always consult with staff if you cannot meet a deadline, whatever the reason. Note also that the laboratory courses are an integral part of your Chemistry courses.

6.1.4 Private Study Your success at University will depend largely on your skill and dedication at private study. For most people, working in small amounts at a time, but often, is the best policy, using odd hours during the days or evenings to reinforce, discover and practice your chemistry. This is often very usefully done in small groups, but note that any formal assessments must be completed independently, unless otherwise indicated. You will need to be organised and conscientious


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with private study if you are to obtain a good degree. Remember: The better your degree classification, the better chance you have of obtaining a job, and the better your prospects for advancement. If you develop good study habits early on in your undergraduate studies, experience suggests that you will do well throughout the entire programme. If at any stage you feel that you are falling behind in your work, you should contact either your study director or your mentor for advice. There is a wealth of academic support available in Chemistry but it is down to you to recognise when you need help, and then to come and ask for it.

Remember the ethos underpinning study is different from that at school. Try to understand the concepts and ideas that you meet, not just memorise them. Don’t just try to pass the exams !

6.1.5 Books You will need the books listed below on hand for your independent studying. Other recommended books for specific courses will be indicated by the lecturer — we really have tried to keep these essential books to the absolute minimum. Other high quality text books and more specialist books can be borrowed from the Library.

Title Author(s) Cost INORGANIC CHEMISTRY (4th edition)

A. G. Sharpe and C. Housecroft ca. £45.99

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY (2nd edition)

J. Clayden, N. Greeves and S. Warren

ca. £46.99

ELEMENTS OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY (6th edition)

P.W. Atkins and J. de Paula ca. £34.99

6.1.6 Virtual Learning Environment — VISION The University has a virtual learning environment for use by its undergraduate students. All of your chemistry courses will be supported by material available through VISION, sometimes also called Blackboard. This is a web-based system and can be accessed at any time, from anywhere. You will have already been given explicit instructions in its use. You will be able to find a lot of material on the VISION site for each chemistry course, to help you succeed. The URL for the login page to the system is:

https://vision.hw.ac.uk/

Your username AND your password for accessing VISION will be your University Desktop Service username and password.

6.2 ASSESSMENT and PROGRESSION THROUGH THE PROGRAMME

All Heriot-Watt University Chemistry Degrees meet the criteria laid down by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework, both in semesters of credit volume and credit level. In addition, it is essential that you read the following information


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carefully as it explains the specific system for progression within the various chemistry programmes.

6.2.1 Examination Timetables

Examination timetables are prepared by the Academic Registry and can be accessed through the Registry website (http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examination-timetables.php) and on appropriate School noticeboards (for Chemistry this is opposite the computer room WP102). Students must check these timetables carefully as it is their responsibility to ensure that they have the correct time and location for any examinations that they are sitting. Draft timetables are posted several weeks prior to the start of the exam diet and it is the student’s responsibility to check for any examination clashes and inform Academic Registry immediately if a problem is discovered. All timetables are published subject to necessary alteration.

6.2.2 General Progression In each year of study, you will take eight courses, each of which is assigned 15 credits. To progress to Year 3, you need 240 credits at the end of Year 2. This is important because, to graduate at the end of your course, you must have credits for ALL of the courses that you have taken. Note that under no circumstances can you progress to Year 3 of your course without at least a minimum of a D grade in ALL Year 2 Chemistry courses and, for students on "Chemistry with" degree programmes, in each continuing course of the "with" subject.

6.2.3 Student Progression within Chemistry Programmes It is our aim to ensure that all students maximise their potential and attain the highest possible personal standards in their undergraduate work. While we will do our utmost in helping students achieve personal goals, you should recognise that ultimately the responsibility for this rests with you, the individual student.

Experience shows that the highest levels of achievement are reached by those students who are enjoying their Chemistry and who are motivated enough to work steadily throughout the entire course. To help you plan your work, and map your progress, there follows a series of guidelines which will allow you to gauge your progress against your personal standards.

Please appreciate that these guidelines are presented for your benefit, to allow you to identify areas that you may need to strengthen. Note that to remain registered for the various MChem degrees, the premier undergraduate degrees offered by the chemistry programme, you will need to attain a higher standard than is necessary for the corresponding BSc (Hons) degrees.

The grades awarded are as follows :

A = 70 - 100% B = 60 - 69%


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C = 50 - 59% D = 40 - 49%

E = the minimum requirement for the award of credit points in a non-continuing subject, as determined by the Assessment Board, but insufficient to continue study of that subject. F = student performance is below the minimum acceptable level for the award of credit points.

Core chemistry courses are examined synoptically in pairs: B18PA with B18PB ; B18OA with B18OB ; B18IA with B18IB. You will take these synoptic examinations (3 × 3 hours) at the end of the second semester. Note that synoptic exams will cover topics from both semester 1 and semester 2 courses in each area. At the end of the first semester, you will have a 2-hour examination (in fact, a class test) in each core course (Inorganic, Organic and Physical Chemistry). The overall synoptic mark comprises the following components and weightings:

Semester 1 December exam (2 hours) 15% Coursework/continuous assessment 15% Laboratory work 20% Semester 2 May exam (3 hours) 50%

To give you some idea:- to attain the award of a First Class degree, you will be expected to average Grade A across Years 3 – 5. • If you are enroled on an MChem degree, you must achieve at least a B Grade

average in Inorganic, Organic and Physical Chemistry (IOP) courses at the end of Years 2 and 3. It is the average over the full year that is important, and you should discuss with your mentor or study director what IOP average you achieved in your exams at the end of semester 1. You should make the most of the continuous assessment and the labs to accumulate marks to offset any short-comings you might have in the much more demanding synoptic exam in May. Be assured that staff will provide every assistance in your work, so please ensure you consult with staff if you are having difficulties at any stage. However, you must also note that if your average for the year — before the resits — does not reach the required level, then you will have to transfer to a BSc degree programme. This decision will be taken by the Chemistry Progression Board which meets in early June.

• If you are enroled on a BSc (Hons) degree, it will be necessary for you to be

achieving at least a C Grade average in Inorganic, Organic and Physical Chemistry (IOP) courses at the end of Years 2 and 3. If your IOP average for the year does not reach a C Grade average, then it will be necessary to transfer you to a BSc (Ordinary) degree programme. Again, this decision will be taken by the Chemistry Progression Board in June. On the other hand, if you are registered for a BSc degree and your average in IOP courses is a B Grade or better throughout Year 2, you will be eligible to transfer onto an MChem degree. This is easily done, just ask your Study Director about the appropriate form (also available online: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/programmetransferug.doc).


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The official method of informing students of their final course results and any examiners’ recommendation on progression or award is now online via Student Self Service (SSS). The log in page can be accessed at: https://myhwu.hw.ac.uk/HWSAS8/twbkwbis.P_WWWLogin. You can find all marks and grades, including progression decisions, for the academic year there towards the end of June. For further details on SSS and how to access the new online system, please consult the Academic Registry website at http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations/results.htm. Guidelines for Progression 1. Progression to Year 3 of an MChem (including all placement degrees) programme requires an average of Grade B or better in Chemistry courses. 2. Progression to Year 3 of a BSc (Honours) Chemistry degree programme requires an average of Grade C or better in Chemistry courses. 3. Progression to Year 3 of the BSc (Ordinary) Chemistry degree programme requires a minimum of Grade D in each core Chemistry course.

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING:- 1. THESE GUIDELINES ARE IN ADDITION TO THE REQUIREMENT OF ACHIEVING 240 CREDITS BY THE END OF YEAR 2.

2. THE CHEMISTRY PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS ARE MORE DEMANDING THAN THE MINIMUM SUGGESTED BY THE UNIVERSITY CAPS SCHEME. This is to keep high standards in the chemistry programmes, which is of course to your long-term benefit when you graduate.

6.2.4 Special Circumstances

When an individual student believes that special circumstances (e.g. illness, personal/family problems) have affected their academic performance or caused him/her to miss an exam, it is the student's responsibility to initiate action by informing the School. The first port of call should be the student's mentor. If you are ill on the day of the exam, you MUST ask your GP to provide a medical certificate that you were unable to sit the exam. To apply to have the special circumstances considered, you should complete the official application form (http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-form.doc) and submit it together with documentary evidence (e.g. medical certificate) to Dr Cameron, the Head of Chemistry Teaching. Appeals and supporting evidence will be evaluated by the Special Circumstances Committee which makes a recommendation to the Exam/Progression Board. If, for example, a student missed an exam due to illness and has provided evidence in form a medical certificate, the Special Circumstances Committee would recommend that the student is allowed to sit the examination missed at the next examination diet (as first attempt). The form and supporting evidence must be submitted as soon as possible. The Special Circumstances Committee will not normally consider appeals where a student has failed to inform his/her mentor about ongoing problems; misread the examination timetable; inadequate planning or time management; or consequences of paid employment.


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6.2.5 School Awards and Prizes Students in Year 2 can earn a merit certificate, based upon their performance in core chemistry courses during the year. In general, an average of >70% will lead to the award of a First Class merit certificate, while between 60 and 70% will earn you a Second Class merit certificate. There are also some monetary prizes available for the top ranking student(s) in all years of the Chemistry programme, associated with various bequests to the University, or donated by commercial organisations.

6.3 ATTENDANCE

For core Chemistry courses, students will need to earn the right to take an exam. Students who have attended all classes and who also participated in all assessments, earn a Certificate of Due Completion (CDC) entitling them to sit the end-of-year synoptic chemistry exams in May. Students whose attendance is unsatisfactory will receive one warning and, if their poor attendance record continues, will become INELIGIBLE FOR ASSESSMENT; this means they will then no longer be allowed to sit the exams at the end of the semester (including the resit diet).

6.3.1 If you miss any scheduled classes In order to obtain a University degree you MUST complete various course requirements, in addition to doing well in the exams. So, in general, if you miss work through illness you are expected to make it up later. Whenever you miss any lectures, laboratory work or tutorials, you must inform your Study Director. This is most easily done by sending an e-mail to your Study Director stating the reason for and the day(s) of your absence. If you are away for 5 or more consecutive days through ill health, a Doctor's medical note is required. A medical certificate is also required if you are ill on the day of an examination. Finally, if you need to be off for extended periods through illness, or for any other reason, then contact your mentor and/or study director immediately. He/she will see how we can advise you on procedures, such as an application for a Temporary Suspension of Studies. Experience shows us that even missing a few classes can have a severe impact on a student’s ability to keep up with his or her work, leading to difficulty in that student achieving his or her potential. Thus, it is essential that absences from classes are kept to a minimum, and that any work that is missed due to an unavoidable absence is caught up with immediately upon return to work. Regrettably, failure to participate in the course without valid reason will lead to de-registration. A de-registered student will be made ineligible for assessment and will no longer be allowed to sit the exams at the end of the semester (including the resit diet). This is a very serious situation. Students who are ineligible for assessment will no longer be able to continue studying Chemistry. In addition, it is a requirement of obtaining a Student Loan that students are


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registered FULL TIME. Thus, it is essential that ALL absences from classes are discussed with your Study Director.

6.3.2 Coursework In addition to having a suitable attendance record, students are also expected to show a suitable engagement with coursework (tutorials, laboratory work/lab reports, webtests, essays). Note: EPS Policy on Late Submission of Coursework Where a single piece of coursework contributes less than 5% of the course final grade, then any work submitted after the deadline will contribute 0 to the final score, unless the late submission has been agreed beforehand with the appropriate staff member or is supported by medical or other documented evidence. Where a single piece of coursework contributes 5% or more to the course final grade, then late submissions without extenuating circumstances will normally have applied a multiplier of 0.5. Thus, a piece of work that would have been awarded 70%, if submitted on time, will be marked as being 35%. Any extenuating circumstances justifying late submission MUST be supported by documentary evidence, e.g. a medical certificate, given to the Study Director.

6.4 FINALLY

This is an exciting and challenging time for you. We very much hope that you will enjoy the experience of working and learning at University level. The requirements for success in degree level courses are demanding but the rewards are great, and long lasting. Chemistry is a fascinating subject and the more you learn the more you will realise this to be true. I very much hope that you will enjoy your learning experience. My colleagues and I will be delighted to help you in any way that we can. I wish you a very successful and enjoyable year of studies.

Dr Jan-Willem Bos Year 2 Director of Studies (Chemistry) September 2013


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PART B – UNIVERSITY INFORMATION The Academic Registry is responsible for producing Part B of the handbook to provide information and assistance on University policies and support services. Kathy Patterson is the University Registrar and Deputy Secretary. Students should contact the appropriate School/Institute in the first instance for any academic query or assistance. Please note that the following sections are standard sources of information provided to all students. However, certain aspects are programme-specific and students should refer to Part A where directed.

B1. Ordinances and Regulations Heriot-Watt University has a detailed set of rules which governs the operation and management of University business. These are referred to as Ordinances and these Ordinances are set by the Court, which is the governing body of the University. The University Ordinances are also supported by University Regulations which detail the rules, policies and practices which Staff and Students must adhere to for all academic matters. The following section on Academic Support Services often refers to Ordinances and Regulations. These links will provide you with information and guidance on all matters relating to your academic life. A full list of Ordinances and Regulations are available at the following weblink:

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf

B2. Quick Finder Guide to Academic Support Services Subject Area For More Information Please Refer to: 1. Academic Support 1.1 Mentoring http://www.hw.ac.uk/quality/studentsupport.htm

and http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/enrolment.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on Mentoring.

1.2

Professional Development Planning

http://www.hw.ac.uk/careers/pdp/index.php Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on Professional Development Planning.

1.3 Student Feedback http://www.hw.ac.uk/quality/studentfeedback.htm and http://www.HWUnion.com


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Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on Student Feedback.

2. Enrolment, Attendance and Periods of Study 2.1

Absence from University

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 1 – General Regulation, paragraph 6 Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 10

2.2

Accreditation of Prior Learning

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 46 – Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

2.3

Amendment to Registration

Application Form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/amendmenttoregistration.doc

2.4 Attendance Policy on Student Attendance: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/studentattendancepolicy.pdf Withdrawal from University: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/withdrawalprocedures.pdf http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 1 – General Regulation, paragraph 6 Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 10

2.5 Change of Address

Application Form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/ChangeofAddress.pdf

2.6 Enrolment http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/enrolment.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on enrolment.

2.7 Periods of Study http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 6

2.8

Student Personal Information (Data Protection)

www.hw.ac.uk/students/data_protection_policy.pdf

2.9

Suspension of Studies

Application Form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/studentappealform.doc

2.10

Teaching Timetables

www.hw.ac.uk/timetabling

3. Guidance on Assessment 3.1 Assessment http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf

Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraphs 13 -19

3.2

Common Assessment

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/CAPSdiagrampgt.pdf


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and Progression System (CAPS)

3.3

Extension to Assessment Deadlines

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry

Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on extensions to assessment deadlines.

3.4

Ill Health and Extenuating Circumstances - Assessment

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 1 – General Regulation, paragraph 6 Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 10, 16, 25

3.5 Special Circumstances in Assessment

Policy: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-policy.pdf Application Form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-form.doc

3.6

Non-Submission of Assessment

Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on non-submission of assessments.

3.7

Submission of Assessment

Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on submission of assessment.

4. Examination and Re-assessment Procedures 4.1

Assessment Results

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on assessment results.

4.2

Discretionary Credits

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 22

4.3 Examinations http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/ordinances.pdf Ordinance 2 – Fees, Charges, Fines and Debts Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on examinations.

4.4 Examination Diets http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on examinations diets.

4.5

Examination Timetables

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations/timetable.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on examination timetables .

4.6

Ill Health and Extenuating Circumstances – Examinations

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 1 – General Regulation, paragraph 6 Regulation 9 – Assessments and Examinations, paragraphs 9 and 12 Students should refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for related procedures in Schools.

4.7 Special Circumstances in Assessment and Examinations

Policy: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-policy.pdf Application Form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/special-circumstances-form.doc


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7.8 Examination in Different Time Zones

Policy: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/QESCpolicyexams.pdf

4.9

Policy on Student Fees and Charges

http://www.hw.ac.uk/policy/student_fees.pdf

4.10 Re-assessment http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations/reassessmentprocedures.htm Please refer to the programme-specific information in Part A of this handbook for further details on re-assessment.

4.11

Use of Calculators and Dictionaries in Examinations

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/policies.htm http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 9 – Assessments and Examinations, paragraph 8

5. Grading, Awards and Qualifications 5.1

Honours Classification and Grading

http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf

For information regarding the qualifying courses used to determine honours classifications, please refer to: Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraphs 14, 20, 23

For information on credit levels relating to degree awards can be found at: Regulation 3 – Modular First Degrees, paragraphs 14, 20

5.2 Intermediate Award

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/awards/intermediateawards.htm

6. Graduation 6.1

Graduation Information and Application Forms

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/graduation.htm

7. Conduct, Discipline and Appeals 7.1

Academic Conduct (including copying, plagiarism and collusion)

Further Information is available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf

Ordinance 9 – Student Discipline Regulation 9 – Assessment and Examinations, Paragraph 8 Regulation 50 – Student Discipline

7.2 Appeals Further Information is available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 36 – Student Appeals

7.3

Detection of Plagiarism

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline.htm http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismjiscnote.pdf

7.4

Guidelines for Students and Staff on Student Discipline Procedures

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/discguidelines.pdf


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7.5 Plagiarism Further Information is available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline/plagiarism.htm Plagiarism Guide: For an English language version, please refer to http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismguide.pdf (this document is attached in Appendix A) For the Chinese language version, please refer to http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismguidechinese.pdf

For the Arabic language version, please refer to http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismguidearabic.pdf

8. Deferred Progression, Suspension and Withdrawal 8.1

Deferred Progression

Students should complete a Student Appeal to Undergraduate Studies Committee Form available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/studentappealform.doc

8.2 Exit Awards http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/awards/exitawards.htm

8.3 Suspension Students should complete an Amendment to Registration Form (Approval by School/Institute) in the first instance: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/amendmenttoregistration.doc Further Information is available from: http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf Regulation 3 (new) – Modular First Degrees, paragraph 19

8.4 Withdrawal Application Form to withdraw from studies is available form: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/studentrecords.htm

9. Student Fees and Charges 9.1

Charges for Transcripts, Certifications, Late Enrolment and Student Identity Cards

Follow the link for Additional Notes on Fees at: http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/additionalfees.pdf

9.2

Fees Status Enquiry Form

http://www.hw.ac.uk/support/isao/docs/Fee%20Form%202011.pdf

9.3

Information on Student Fees

www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/scholarships/tuition-fees.htm and http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/ordinances.pdf Ordinance 2 – Fees, Charges, Fines and Debts

9.4

Policy on Student Fees and Charges

http://www.hw.ac.uk/policy/student_fees.pdf

9.5

Re-assessment Fees and Procedures

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/examinations/reassessmentprocedures.htm

9.6 Repeated Courses

http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/scholarships/tuition-fees.htm


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B3. Quick Finder Guide to Student Administration and Support Services Much of the detail this handbook provides guidance and links for the academic operations of a complex institution like Heriot-Watt University. However, as well as helping to inform students, the University also hopes to ensure that students are happy members of a vibrant community. This section outlines the range of services available for students to help them get the most out of their time here and to assist with any problems they may experience along the way. Student Administration and Support Service 1

Academic Counselling and Skills Coaching

http://www.hw.ac.uk/sbc/library/academic_skills/index.htm

2 Academic Registry http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry

3

Careers Advisory Service

http://www.hw.ac.uk/careers

4

Centre for Sport and Exercise

Edinburgh Campus: http://www.hw.ac.uk/sports/

5 Chaplaincy http://www.hw.ac.uk/chaplaincy/

6 Computing Services Regulation 29 ‘Use of Computing Facilities’: http://www.hw.ac.uk/it/Rules_%20Regulations/conditionsofuse.html General IT information: http://www.hw.ac.uk/it/ or contact IT Help on +44 (0)130 451 4050 Freewire: http://www.freewiretv.com/hw

7

Development and Alumni Office

http://www.hw.ac.uk/alumni.htm

8

Equality and Diversity Service

http://www.hw.ac.uk/equality

9 Finance Office http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/scholarships-fees.htm or contact [email protected]

10 Guide to Student Life http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life.htm

11 Health Service http://www.hw.ac.uk/health

12

Heriot Watt University Students’ Association

http://HWUnion.com or contact [email protected]

13

Information Security (Data Protection)

To find out more please contact [email protected]

14 International Student Advice

http://www.hw.ac.uk/support/isao/about-us.htm

15 Library http://www.hw.ac.uk/library/


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16 Sports Union http://www.hw.ac.uk/sports/sports-union.htm

17

Student Service Centre

http://www.hw.ac.uk/studentcentre

18

Student Support and Accommodation

Student Support: http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/campus-life/student-support.htm Accommodation: http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/campus-life/edinburgh/accommodation.htm http://www.hw.ac.uk/support/isao/accommodation.htm or contact - [email protected]

19 Wider Access Unit Further information on Wider Access can be found at: http://www.hw.ac.uk/student-life/entry-requirements/other-routes-to-entry.htm or contact Fiona Watt, Wider Access Assistant - [email protected]

University Policy and Guidance The University publishes many policies and reference information on its website that may be of use and of interest to students throughout their programme of studies at Heriot-Watt University

Wherever practicable, University policies are designed to include all members of the University’s community, both in and outwith the main campus environments. Policies of specific interest and relevance to students can be accessed via:

www.hw.ac.uk/registry/policies.htm

and,

Freshers’ Guide

http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/freshersguide.pdf


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APPENDIX A: Student Guide to Plagiarism 1

Plagiarism is intellectual theft and is a major offence which the University takes seriously in all cases. Students must therefore avoid committing acts of plagiarism by following these guidelines and speaking to academic staff if they are uncertain about what plagiarism means. Those who are found to have plagiarised will be subject to the University’s disciplinary procedures, which may result in penalties ranging from the deduction of credits and courses already achieved by students to compulsory termination of studies. Students are advised to refer to Regulation 50 at http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf and to the Guidelines for Staff and Students on Discipline at http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline.htm for further details of how the University deals with all acts of plagiarism.

1 Introduction 1.1 This guide is intended to provide students at Heriot-Watt University with a clear definition of

plagiarism and examples of how to avoid it. 1.2 The guide may also be of use to members of staff who seek to advise students on the various

issues outlined below. 2 Definition 2.1 Plagiarism involves the act of taking the ideas, writings or inventions of another person and

using these as if they were one’s own, whether intentionally or not. Plagiarism occurs where there is no acknowledgement that the writings or ideas belong to or have come from another source.

2.2 Most academic writing involves building on the work of others and this is acceptable as long as

their contribution is identified and fully acknowledged. It is not wrong in itself to use the ideas, writings or inventions of others, provided that whoever does so is honest about acknowledging the source of that information. Many aspects of plagiarism can be simply avoided through proper referencing. However, plagiarism extends beyond minor errors in referencing the work of others and also includes the reproduction of an entire paper or passage of work or of the ideas and views contained in such pieces of work.

3 Good Practice 3.1 Academic work is almost always drawn from other published information supplemented by the

writer’s own ideas, results or findings. Thus drawing from other work is entirely acceptable, but it is unacceptable not to acknowledge such work. Conventions or methods for making acknowledgements can vary slightly from subject to subject, and students should seek the advice of staff in their own School/Institute about ways of doing this. Generally, referencing systems fall into the Harvard (where the text citation is by author and date) and numeric (where the text citation is by using a number). Both systems refer readers to a list at the end of the piece of work where sufficient information is provided to enable the reader to locate the source for themselves.

3.2 When a student undertakes a piece of work that involves drawing on the writings or ideas of

others, they must ensure that they acknowledge each contribution in the following manner:

• Citations: when a direct quotation, a figure, a general idea or other piece of information is taken from another source, the work and its source must be acknowledged and identified where it occurs in the text;

1 The author acknowledges the following sources of information used in preparing this guide to Plagiarism: “Plagiarism – A Good Practice Guide”, Carroll, J and Appleton, J (2001) and various extracts from Student/Programme Handbooks 2004/2005, Schools and Institutes at Heriot-Watt University


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• Quotations: inverted commas must always be used to identify direct quotations, and the source of the quotation must be cited;

• References: the full details of all references and other sources must be listed in a section

at the end of any piece of work, such as an essay, together with the full publication details. This is normally referred to as a “List of References” and it must include details of any and all sources of information that the student has referred to in producing their work. (This is slightly different to a Bibliography, which may also contain references and sources which, although not directly referred to in your work, you consulted in producing your work).

3.3 Students may wish to refer to the following examples which illustrate the basic principles of

plagiarism and how students might avoid it in their work by using some very simple techniques:

3.3.1 Example 1: A Clear Case of Plagiarism

Examine the following example in which a student has simply inserted a passage of text (in italics) into their work directly from a book they have read:

University and college managers should consider implementing strategic frameworks if they wish to embrace good management standards. One of the key problems in setting a strategic framework for a college or university is that the individual institution has both positive and negative constraints placed upon its freedom of action. Managers are employed to resolve these issues effectively.

This is an example of bad practice as the student makes no attempt to distinguish the passage they have inserted from their own work. Thus, this constitutes a clear case of plagiarism. Simply changing a few key words in such a passage of text (e.g. replace ‘problems’ with ‘difficulties’) does not make it the student’s work and it is still considered to be an act of plagiarism.

3.4 What follows are examples of the measures that students should employ in order to correctly

cite the words, thought or ideas of others that have influenced their work:

3.4.1 Example 2: Quoting the work of others

If a student wishes to cite a passage of text in order to support their own work, the correct way of doing so is to use quotation marks (e.g. “ “) to show that the passage is someone else’s work, as follows:

“One of the key problems in setting a strategic framework for a college or university is that the individual institution has both positive and negative constraints placed upon its freedom of action”.

3.4.2 Example 3: Referencing the work of others

In addition to using quotation marks as above, students must also use a text citation. If the work being cited is a book, page numbers would also normally be required. Thus, using the Harvard system for a book:

“One of the key problems in setting a strategic framework for a college or university is that the individual institution has both positive and negative constraints placed upon its freedom of action” (Jones, 2001, p121).

The same reference could also be made to a book using the numeric system:

“One of the key problems in setting a strategic framework for a college or university is that the individual institution has both positive and negative constraints placed upon its freedom of action” (Ref.1, p121).


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More often, a piece of work will have multiple references and this serves to show an examiner that the student is drawing from a number of sources. For example, articles by Brown and by Smith may be cited as follows in the Harvard system “It has been asserted that Higher Education in the United Kingdom continued to be poorly funded during the 1980’s [Brown, 1991], whereas more modern writers [Smith, 2002] argue that the HE sector actually received, in real terms, more funding during this period than the thirty year period immediately preceding it”. or as follows using the numeric system: “It has been asserted that Higher Education in the United Kingdom continued to be poorly funded during the 1980’s [Ref 1], whereas more modern writers [Ref 2] argue that the HE sector actually received, in real terms, more funding during this period than the thirty year period immediately preceding it”.

3.4.3 Example 4: Use of reference lists Whichever system is used, a list must be included at the end, which allows the reader to locate the works cited for themselves. The Internet is also an increasingly popular source of information for students and details must again be provided. You should adhere to the following guidelines in all cases where you reference the work of others: If the source is a book, the required information is as follows: • Author’s name(s) • Year of Publication • Title of Book • Place of Publication

• Publishers Name • All Page Numbers cited • Edition (if more than one, e.g. 3rd

edition, 2001)

If the source is an article in a journal or periodical, the required information is as follows: • Author’s name(s) • Year of Publication • Title of Journal

• Volume and part number • Page numbers for the article

If the source is from the Internet, the required information is as follows:

• Author’s or Institution’s name

(“Anon”, if not known) • Title of Document • Date last accessed by student

• Full URL (e.g. http://www.lib.utk.edu /instruction/plagiarism/)

• Affiliation of author, if given (e.g. University of Tennessee)

The way in which the information is organised can vary, and there are some types of work (for example edited volumes and conference proceedings) where the required information is slightly different. Essentially, though, it is your responsibility to make it clear where you are citing references within your work and what the source is within your reference list. Failure to do so is an act of plagiarism.

3.5 Students may find the following examples2 of common plagiarism mistakes made by other

students useful when reflecting on their own work:

• “I thought it would be okay as long as I included the source in my bibliography” [without indicating a quotation had been used in the text]

• “I made lots of notes for my essay and couldn't remember where I found the information”

• “I thought it would be okay to use material that I had purchased online”

2 Extract from ‘Plagiarism at the University of Essex’ advice copyrighted and published by the Learning, Teaching and Quality Unit at the University of Essex (http://www.essex.ac.uk/plagiarism/pages/reasons.htm), reproduced with kind permission.


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• “I thought it would be okay to copy the text if I changed some of the words into my own”

• “I thought that plagiarism only applied to essays, I didn't know that it also applies to oral presentations/group projects etc”

• “I thought it would be okay just to use my tutor's notes” • “I didn't think that you needed to reference material found on the web” • “I left it too late and just didn't have time to reference my sources”

None of the above are acceptable reasons for failing to acknowledge the use of others’ work and thereby constitute plagiarism.

3.6 Students are encouraged to use a style of acknowledgement that is appropriate to their own

academic discipline and should seek advice from their mentor, programme leader or other appropriate member of academic staff. There are also many reference sources available in the University Library which will provide useful guidance on referencing styles.

4 Managing Plagiarism 4.1 Students, supervisors and institutions have a joint role in ensuring that plagiarism is avoided in

all areas of academic activity. Each role is outlined below as follows:

How you can ensure that you avoid plagiarism in your work:

• Take responsibility for applying the above principles of best practice and integrity within all of your work

• Be aware that your written work will be checked for plagiarism and that all incidents of plagiarism, if found, are likely to result in severe disciplinary action by the University. The standard penalty is to annul all assessments taken in the same diet of examinations (for details please refer to Regulation 50 at http://www.hw.ac.uk/ordinances/regulations.pdf and to the Guidelines for Staff and Students on Discipline at http://www.hw.ac.uk/registry/discipline.htm).

How your School/Institute will help you to avoid plagiarism: • Highlight written guidance on how you can avoid plagiarism and provide you with

supplementary, verbal guidance wherever appropriate • Regularly check student work to ensure that plagiarism has not taken place (this may

involve both manual and electronic methods of checking, an example of the latter being use of the Joint Information Standards Committee (JISC) “TurnitIn” plagiarism detection software).

• Alert you to the procedures that will apply should you be found to have committed or be suspected of having committed an act of plagiarism and explain how further action will be taken in accordance with University policy and procedures.

How the University will endeavour to reduce student plagiarism: • Provide clear written guidance on what constitutes plagiarism and how to avoid it directly to

your School/Institute and to you • Alert you and staff in your School/Institute to the penalties employed when dealing with

plagiarism cases • Take steps to ensure that a consistent approach is applied when dealing with cases of

suspected plagiarism across the institution • Take the issue of academic dishonesty very seriously and routinely investigate cases

where students have plagiarised and apply appropriate penalties in all proven cases.

For information on plagiarism-detection software used across the University, please refer to:

www.hw.ac.uk/registry/resources/plagiarismjiscnote.pdf


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APPENDIX B: Plan of the William Perkin Building

E X I T t o G a i t 2

B I O L O G I C A L S C I E N C E S

U 7 U 6

U 5

F i r e E s c a p e

F i r e E s c a p e

F i r e E s c a p e

G r o u n d F l o o r

E X I T t o G a i t 2

G 0 2

G 0 9 G 0 7

G 3 3 G 2 6

G 2 3 S t o r e

G 2 0

G 1 0 M a s s S p e c

G 1 9

G 2 1 G 2 2

G02 Office G03 Dr G M Rosair G04 Dr M J Paterson G05 Powder X-ray diffraction G06 Single-crystal X-ray diffraction G07 Single-crystal X-ray computing G08 Male toilet G09 Glassblowing (Mr P Allan) G10 Research lab (Dr N H Nahler) G16 Research lab G17 Research lab G19 Astrochemistry lab G20 400 MHz NMR lab (Dr D Ellis) G21 300 MHz NMR lab G22 N.N. G22 Physical chemistry research lab G23 Stores G25 Male toilet G26 Vacuum workshop G27A McKendrick/Costen group office G27B Office G28 McCoustra group office G29 Prof. M R S McCoustra G30 Dr S J Greaves G31 Dr M L Costen G32 N.N. G33 SPS room


34

L e v e l 1

P H Y S I C S


U 7 U 6

U 5

F i r e E s c a p e

F i r e E s c a p e

F i r e E s c a p e

O r g a n i c L a b o r a t o r y

1 0 7

1 0 8

1 0 9

1 1 0

1 1 1 1 1 5

1 1 8

1 0 2

1 0 5

1 0 4

102 Undergraduate computing 104 Esso teaching resources room 105 Staff room 107 Lecture room 108 Lecture room 109 Lecture room 110 Lecture room 111 Organic teaching laboratory 112 Organic spectroscopy room 115 Organic research laboratory 117 Female toilet 118 Organic research laboratory 119 Reference room 120 Inorganic research laboratory 121 Dr A-L Lee 122 Dr M W P Bebbington 123 Prof. D R Adams


35

L e v e l 2


U 7 U 6

U 5

F i r e E s c a p e

F i r e E s c a p e

F i r e E s c a p e

I n o r g a n i c / P h y s i c a l L a b o r a t o r y

2 0 2

2 3 5

2 2 5

2 2 3

2 1 0

2 4 2

2 1 2 2 3 2

f

202 Prof. A V Powell 203 Dr C Rickman 204 Dr S J Dalgarno 205 Dr J H Cameron 206 207 208 Dr N M Howarth (BSc Fourth Year Director of Studies) 209 Dr J-G Bos 210 Organic research laboratory 211 Male toilet 212 Inorganic research laboratory 214 215 Prof. K G McKendrick (MChem Director of Studies) 216 Prof. S A Macgregor 217 Departmental office (research) 218 Office 219 Office 223 Prof. A J Welch (First Year Director of Studies) 225 Inorganic/Physical teaching laboratory 227 Inorganic/Physical spectroscopy lab 231 Materials research laboratory 232 Computational chemistry research 233 Materials research laboratory 235 Computational chemistry research 236 Prof. M S Gutowski 237 Server room 238 Dr P Vaqueiro 239 240 Computational chemistry research 241 Dr A Kraft (Second Year Director of Studies) 242 Materials research laboratory


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S c h o o l o f L i f e S c i e n c e s

3 . 1 9

L e v e l 3 B I O L O G I C A L S C I E N C E S

U 7

F i r e E s c a p e

F i r e E s c a p e

S p i n e

U 6

U 5

3 2 6 3 3 2

3 2 4 3 . 2 3

3 . 2 1

F i r e E s c a p e

311 Female toilet 319 Furnace room 321 Materials group room 323 Research laboratory 324 Materials instrumentation 325 Female toilet 326 Materials research laboratory 327 Office 328 Dr V Arrighi (Third Year Director of Studies) 329 Office


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APPENDIX C: Campus Map


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APPENDIX D: Campus Building Abbreviations

Building Names / Codes

JM John Muir

EC Edwin Chadwick

JC John Coulson

WP William Perkin

WA William Arrol

GC Gibson Craig Wing

EM Earl Mountbatten

HP Henry Prais

MB Mary Burton

SR Scott Russell

JN James Naysmith

DB David Brewster

undergraduate programme handbook for chemistry (year 2...

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