Open University

Mestrado em Ciência e Tecnologia Espaciais

The qualification provides opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, qualities, skills and other attributes in the following areas:

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this master's degree, you will have knowledge and understanding of:

• The space environment within the Solar System
• The design and operation of space-based instrumentation
• The aspects of space mission design and operation relevant to scientific applications
• Scientific debates within planetary and space sciences, based on current research findings

Cognitive skills

On completion of this master's degree, you will be able to:

• Critically evaluate methodologies of scientific measurement in the space environment
• Select and apply appropriate mathematical methods for modelling and analysing science and engineering data obtained in the space environment
• Critically evaluate current research in space and planetary sciences and associated areas
• Analyse and address complex technical situations through the application of appropriate scientific, engineering or computing techniques

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this master's degree, you will be able to:

• Plan and carry out a scientific investigation using data from space-based instrumentation
• Plan, manage and conduct a research project in space science or space technology
• Demonstrate a professional approach to practice (proficiency in skills relevant to employment or research in the space sector, e.g. teamwork, showing evidence of the use of initiative and personal responsibility)

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

Stage 1 (60 credits)

60 credits from:

• Space science (S818)

Stage 2 (60 credits)

30 credits from:

List A

• Making Strategy with Systems Thinking in Practice (TB871)
• Managing Change with Systems Thinking in Practice (TB872)
• Project Management (M815)
• Strategic Capabilities for Technological Innovation (T849)
• Technology Innovation Management (TB801)

Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued modules T848 and U810.

30 credits from:

List B

• Advanced Mathematical Methods (M833)
• Calculus of Variations and Advanced Calculus (M820)
• Coding Theory (M836)
• Data Management (M816)
• Digital Forensics (M812)
• Environmental Monitoring and Protection (T868)
• Finite Element Analysis: Principles and Applications (T808) NEW
• Information Security (M811)
• Manufacture Materials Design (T805)
• Network Security (T828)
• Software Development (M813)
• Software Engineering (M814)

Stage 3 (60 credits)

60 credits from:

• Masters level project in physical sciences (SXS841)

You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

You will learn through two interrelated methods. Firstly, using a range of specially written study materials, case studies, original texts, study guides and assignments, and through a range of multi-media material. Secondly, you are allocated a tutor who is your first and main point of contact.

Your tutor answers queries on study materials, grades and comments on your work, and, depending on which module you are studying, may arrange online tutorials. You are also encouraged to participate in online discussion forums for the module(s) you are studying. This gives you a chance to share and resolve issues with fellow students, as well as with tutors and the module team.

Formative assessment in the form of informal activities and self-assessed questions (SAQs) allows you to assess your own progress and understanding. Formal assessment of the knowledge and understanding components of the programme is achieved by a series of tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) – usually three for each 30-credit module.

These assignments are marked and assessed by your tutor. They are central to the teaching of the module since they allow you an opportunity to display your knowledge and understanding. This will enable tutors to identify any issues concerning either and provide appropriate feedback.

Although assignments are usually undertaken on an individual basis, some modules have group-based assignments that use online discussion forums. Modules may also include computer-marked assignments or examination papers. Currently, most modules within the technology management programme include an end-of-module assessment, in place of an examination.

As habilidades cognitivas no programa são desenvolvidas através de uma série de atividades dentro dos módulos do programa. Estudos de caso e outros relatos de como a tecnologia é gerenciada permitirão que você se envolva com os problemas relacionados ao gerenciamento de tecnologia e desenvolva habilidades adequadas de análise, avaliação e resolução de problemas. Os módulos descreverão formalmente uma série de métodos e técnicas usados no gerenciamento de tecnologia e você será incentivado a utilizá-los e refletir sobre seu uso.

Ao realizar o módulo final do mestrado (uma tese de mestrado baseada em um projeto de pesquisa de sua escolha), há um amplo escopo para o desenvolvimento de uma abordagem crítica à gestão de tecnologia.

A evidência dos níveis de competências também será evidente em todas as tarefas e os tutores comentarão as evidências das competências, bem como os níveis demonstrados de conhecimento e compreensão.

Ao ingressar no programa de gestão de tecnologia, espera-se que você tenha experiência em gestão de tecnologia, uma especialização técnica ou gestão geral e/ou administração onde tenha um interesse particular nas dimensões tecnológicas de organização e gestão. Como tal, você já deve ter adquirido muitas habilidades importantes. O programa permitirá então demonstrá-los e desenvolvê-los ainda mais.

Os materiais de estudo e o apoio do seu tutor ajudarão a desenvolver suas habilidades no gerenciamento de seu próprio aprendizado. Por exemplo, muitos dos módulos esperam que você trabalhe em grande parte sob sua própria direção e iniciativa. Espera-se que você reflita sobre seu desempenho, identifique suas necessidades de aprendizagem e então desenvolva estratégias de aprendizagem apropriadas.

Esta qualificação é diretamente relevante para carreiras científicas e técnicas no setor espacial. É particularmente relevante para funções que se preocupam com aquisição, manuseio e interpretação de dados obtidos por instrumentação baseada no espaço.