12th December 2002

Email this Page |

A £120,000 electronic engineering laboratory is set to take the graduates of the UU's Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment to a new level of excellence.

Opened today by Mr Bill McGinnis, Chair of the Learning and Skills Advisory Board, Department for Employment and Learning, the Jordanstown-based facility has been designed to allow students to enjoy a more significant' hands on' practical approach to electronically based modules, which industry has identified as a vital element in the education of undergraduate students.

The advantage to industry is that students, once employed, have more experience using instrumentation that is utilised in the electronic, information technology and telecommunication industries.

Dr Robin Clarke. Head of the University's School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, said: "Students are now able to undertake computer mediated experiments, which contribute to student, led learning. This also benefits students during their undergraduate degree, before they enter a year of industrial placement by giving them the necessary skills to help them secure job interviews. Once employed these transferable skills will aid the operational aspects of their jobs."

Speaking at the event, Mr McGinnis said: " I am delighted to launch this Electronic Engineering Laboratory today which will allow students to raise their skills profile in the technology-based economy. By working together with our industry and education partners we will ensure the future of our economy in the global market place and keep Northern Ireland as a competitive location. "

The exciting new facility offers students sixteen workstations featuring over 300 experiment modules in a wide range of electrical and electronic engineering topics.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk