course-details-portlet

IELS1001

Engineering project - Introduction to ESI

Credits 7.5
Level Foundation courses, level I
Course start Autumn 2025
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction Norwegian
Location Trondheim
Examination arrangement Portfolio

About

About the course

Course content

This course introduces students to project- and problem-based learning (PBL) as a method to develop practical skills in electronic systems. Through a combination of foundational learning activities and an open-ended project, students gain an understanding of designing, connecting, and programming electronic systems. This includes an introductory platform for microcontroller programming, data visualization, and actuator control. The project work is divided into two parts and is conducted both individually and in groups, with an emphasis on collaboration, reflection, and planning of one’s own learning process.

Learning outcome

Upon completing the course, the candidate will have a fundamental understanding of a microcontroller-based electronic subsystem with connected sensors and actuators, as well as its role within a larger system. Additionally, the candidate will be able to work methodically both independently and in a project group to assemble and program such a subsystem, including visualizing data and results.

Knowledge

The candidate will understand:

• The basic principles of project- and problem-based learning (PBL).

• The fundamental structure and functionality of an electronic system comprising a central microcontroller with connected sensor and actuator circuits.

• The process of a programming project, from problem definition to a fully tested prototype.

Skills

The candidate will be able to:

• Design, build, and program a basic electronic system with sensors and actuators.

• Structure, plan, and execute self-directed learning tailored to the needs of the project.

• Work effectively in teams to develop prototypes and reflect on iterative development.

General Competence

The candidate will:

• Be able to explain the principles of PBL and adapt their learning to the varying demands of project work through reflection and planning.

• Contribute constructively in project groups by sharing knowledge, collaborating, and developing solutions collectively.

• Present technical solutions clearly and structured, both orally and in writing.

Learning methods and activities

Project work individually and in groups. Dialogue-based forms of learning in combination with lectures. Guest lectures and an excursion.

Compulsory assignments

  • Obligatory attendance
  • Assignments

Further on evaluation

Assessment in the course is based on submitted project reports and presentations of the project solutions. All elements in the portfolio must be evaluated at a level equivalent to a C or higher to achieve a passing final grade. The number of reports and deadlines will be specified at the start of the semester. Attendance is mandatory for this course. Additionally, there are a number of mandatory exercises, with the number and deadlines also announced at the beginning of the semester.

Specific conditions

Admission to a programme of study is required:
Electronic Systems Engineer - Engineering (BIELSYS)

Required previous knowledge

No requirements

Course materials

Will be communicated at the start of the semester

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From
IELET1002 5 sp Autumn 2023
This course has academic overlap with the course in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject areas

  • Computer and Information Science
  • Electronics
  • Technological subjects

Contact information

Course coordinator

Lecturers

Department with academic responsibility

Department of Electronic Systems

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Portfolio
Grade: Passed / Not Passed

Ordinary examination - Autumn 2025

Portfolio
Weighting 100/100