Year 11 Systems Engineering Units 1 and 2
Overview
*Systems Engineering is only available to school-based students.
Welcome to the exciting world of engineering fundamentals and mechanical systems! In this unit, we’ll dive into understanding the core concepts, principles, and components that make up mechanical systems.
In Systems Engineering unit 1 and 2 you will explore emerging technologies and how they shape the world of engineering and innovation. Engage in hands-on activities and projects to apply your knowledge in practical ways.
Have the chance to develop, refine, and showcase your skills in creating functional systems. Gain insights into the interconnectedness of mechanics and electronics in modern systems. Discover a range of exciting systems to study and build upon, providing real-world context.
What You’ll Learn:
- Explore the different types of mechanical components and how they are connected within systems.
- Understand the basics of physics that underpin mechanical systems and how they function.
- Focus on creating operational mechanical systems using the systems engineering process.
- Unleash your creativity by designing and innovating new mechanical systems.
- Investigate how energy is used or converted in various mechanical systems.
- Get introduced to mechanical engineering principles, including subsystems, motions, and basic physics.
- Use mathematical calculations to describe and explain the physical characteristics of mechanical systems.
Unit 2: Electrotechnological Systems
Welcome to the world of electrotechnology, where circuits, electronics, and innovation come together! In this unit, we’ll explore the principles behind electrotechnological systems, which include electrical and electronic components, circuits, and even microelectronics.
What You’ll Learn:
- Dive into the fundamental principles of electrotechnology and engineering.
- Discover the exciting realm of electrical and electronic circuitry. Create operational electrotechnological systems using the systems engineering process. Embrace your inner designer and innovator by developing creative electrotechnological solutions.
- Study applied electrical theory and how it applies to circuits.
- Learn about standard representations of electronic components and devices.
- Understand basic physics in electrical circuits and how it influences their behavior.
- Delve into mathematical processes that help define and explain electrical characteristics of circuits.
Who is it for?
VCE Systems Engineering,” is intended for students who are interested in learning about the design, production, operation, evaluation, and iteration of integrated systems. The subject focuses on various engineering aspects and aims to promote systems thinking and problem-solving skills through the application of the systems engineering process. VCE Systems Engineering also prepares students for careers in engineering, manufacturing, and design. It offers a pathway to further education in universities or technical and vocational education (TAFE) institutions, as well as employment, apprenticeships, and traineeships.
What do you do?
Students in this subject engage in the continuation of developing an integrated mechanical and electrotechnological systems from prior research and design work. They explore emerging technologies, apply open-source models, employ project and risk management methods, and critically evaluate both the production process and the system’s performance using a combination of hands-on activities, theoretical knowledge, and documentation practices.
What skills do you need?
There are no prerequisites for entry to Units 1-2. However, additional preparatory work would be advisable for students entering the Units 3 and 4 without completing Units 1 and 2. Students must undertake Unit 3 and Unit 4 as a sequence. Units 1 to 4 are designed to a standard equivalent to the final two years of secondary education. All VCE studies are benchmarked against comparable national and international curriculum
What skills do you develop?
This curriculum equips students to grasp the systems engineering process. They develop essential skills for effective design, production, analysis, and control of technological systems, while applying knowledge of mechanical, electrotechnological, and control systems to solve real-world problems. Additionally, students gain insights into the societal impacts of technology, enhance their proficiency in safe tool use, and acquire project management and problem-solving capabilities.
Requirements
A well-equipped metal or woodworking workshop is necessary for practical tasks in Systems Engineering. Moreover, electronics tools like soldering irons and multimeters, along with components such as batteries, resistors, LEDs, and printed circuit boards, are essential. Students need to be prepared to fund materials, equipment, and components that aren’t accessible in their school’s workshop.
Things to think about
Systems Engineering involves integrating theory and practical applications, requiring the simultaneous management of both elements. Furthermore, a solid grasp of fundamental mathematical principles is essential for comprehending the engineering concepts central to this field of study.
Things you can do now
Feel free to examine the study outline to determine whether you’ve already acquired certain knowledge and skills encompassed by Systems Engineering. You can access the study design here: https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Documents/vce/systemeng/2019SystemsEngineeringSD.pdf
Things to have a look at
Design and Technology Teachers Association
DATTA will give you access to exam webinars and other learning resources.
VCAA
https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/curriculum/vce/vce-study-designs/systemsengineering/Pages/Index.aspx
VCAA provides you with access to previous exams and study designs and other advice for assessment.
The Melbourne museum
Here you’ll find some great project examples and folio’s from previous years.