41175 Emerging Topics in Quantum Information Science
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Credit points: 6 cp
Subject level:
Undergraduate
Result type: Grade and marksRequisite(s): 41076 Methods in Quantum Computing AND 41173 Quantum Software and Programming
Description
This subject covers emerging topics in research and industrial quantum computing and information science by guest lectures and workshops. Students develop an advanced understanding of cutting-edge topics in quantum computing through investigating the key topics driving industry-leading research, new research breakthroughs, and consolidating advanced techniques in the quantum information sciences. Current trends and challenges in quantum computing are explored through studying professional practice and reviewing research literature. Students will learn to apply current best-practice in quantum computing analysis, modelling, and experimental methods via engaging in workshops and small-team discussions.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Critically examine contemporary quantum computing literature to delineate key research priorities and potential new research outcomes. (B.1) |
|---|---|
| 2. | Cultivate advanced analysis skills for problems in quantum and classical computing. (D.1) |
| 3. | Collaborate to communicate research synthesis alongside practical results. (E.1) |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):
- Socially Responsible: FEIT graduates identify, engage, interpret and analyse stakeholder needs and cultural perspectives, establish priorities and goals, and identify constraints, uncertainties and risks (social, ethical, cultural, legislative, environmental, economics etc.) to define the system requirements. (B.1)
- Technically Proficient: FEIT graduates apply abstraction, mathematics and discipline fundamentals, software, tools and techniques to evaluate, implement and operate systems. (D.1)
- Collaborative and Communicative: FEIT graduates work as an effective member or leader of diverse teams, communicating effectively and operating within cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural contexts in the workplace. (E.1)
Teaching and learning strategies
This subject uses active learning strategies which involve a combination of lectures, tutorials and workshops to support a research-inspired learning strategy. It also includes elements of guided self-study learning.
Students will be required to review online materials, pre-readings and research literature before taking the on-campus workshops. Within workshops, students collaboratively engage in intensive discussion and activities on selected topics or projects based on guest lectures. Students also independently present the current research and conduct practical projects in quantum information science.
Students will collaboratively present emerging topics in quantum information science during workshops and will also be assessed by two assignments. In these assignments they will first prepare an Expression of Interest for a potential new research project. They will then go on to develop either a Business Case or a Project Proposal after receiving feedback on their Expression of Interest.
Students will receive continuous feedback for their workshops and tutorial activities on a weekly basis. This will be provided by the tutor in the tutorial sessions where the in-depth discussions on the workshop and tutorial sessions will take place. Students must attend workshop sessions and tutorials to complete the required assessment tasks. Feedback for assessment tasks will be given to students once the marking is finalised within 2-3 weeks of submission.
Content (topics)
- Building quantum computers, what is the current best practice
- Quantum complexity theory
- Quantum communication
- Application development for near-term quantum computers
- Physics of quantum information
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Workshop presentation
| Intent: | The workshop presentation will demonstrate the application of concepts, strategies and techniques learned from guest lectures and self-initiated study. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1 and 3 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): B.1 and E.1 |
| Type: | Presentation |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 40% |
| Length: | The presentation length is subject to change according to different topic, but will be approximately 15 minutes. Each week will consist of an individual presentation and a group panel discussion. |
Assessment task 2: Expression of Interest for a research project
| Intent: | A project requiring the synthesis and analysis of a complex emerging topic in quantum information science. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2 and 3 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): B.1, D.1 and E.1 |
| Type: | Project |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 20% |
| Length: | 750 words |
Assessment task 3: Research proposal/business case
| Intent: | A project requiring the synthesis and analysis of a complex emerging topic in quantum information science. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2 and 3 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): B.1, D.1 and E.1 |
| Type: | Project |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 40% |
| Length: | 2500 words |
Minimum requirements
To pass this subject, students must achieve an overall mark of 50% or greater.