Engineering: Frameworks, Analysis, Production | Open University

England

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Accessibility statement

Qualification dates
Start	End
11 Apr 2026	Sept 2026

This module builds on the concepts and techniques in Engineering: origins, methods, context (T192). It begins by focusing on invention, innovation and the advisory or legislative frameworks that promote good practice and ensure safety. It examines examples of patents, standards and an energy case study, providing a basis for introducing key engineering and mathematics topics. Next, it takes you on a tour of modern manufacturing methods and explores how they relate to materials’ properties, product design, environmental sustainability and profitability. It also introduces and applies more advanced mathematical techniques, including basic calculus, in an engineering context.

Part 1: Engineering to rule*

You will explore the ideas of innovation and invention, and the advisory or legislative frameworks used to promote good practice and ensure safety. These include patents, standards, industry guidelines, and other official data sources, information and guidance. Examples will be chosen for closer examination that introduce key engineering topics. You will study aspects of the mechanical and electrical properties of materials, the behaviour of structures under load, and introductory chemistry. * Please note that Part 1 will be called Engineering to innovate from May 2027.

Part 2: Engineering for power*

In this part, you’ll explore the important topic of producing energy for human use. You will learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of fossil fuels and the growing need for low-carbon energy. A case study looks more closely at one alternative approach – producing electricity from sunlight using photovoltaic panels. Fundamental topics covered include chemical equations, electromagnetic radiation's nature and properties, and electronic materials' structure and properties. * Please note that Part 2 will be called Energy and power from May 2027.

Part 3: Manufacturing

Next, you will build on your growing understanding of materials' properties. You will learn about key manufacturing techniques and when and how they can be used to make products. The techniques covered include casting, forming, cutting, joining, surface engineering, and additive manufacturing.

Part 4: Materials and resources

The final part will present some case studies of using materials and resources, putting manufacturing into a broader context of environmental and economic considerations.

Mathematics is an essential component of engineering and is included throughout the module. You will have opportunities to revise and build on the mathematics covered in Engineering: origins, methods, context (T192), by applying it to new topics in engineering. New mathematical methods in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, graphical representation, statistics and calculus will be introduced and applied.

You will be helped to develop your information literacy skills through library searches and technical reading linked to patents and standards. The Open Engineering Studio provides an online space where you can share work with other students and work together on collaborative activities. You will use a learning log to record and reflect on your progress.

Throughout the module, interactive quizzes will allow you to practise maths questions to prepare for the interactive computer-marked assignments (iCMAs). Assignment questions will be based on activities in the module material.

This module provides ideal preparation for the third of our introductory engineering modules, Engineering: mathematics, modelling, applications (T194).

You must have passed or currently be studying one of the following modules:

You need knowledge of basic engineering and design concepts, and be able to solve problems using mathematics.

If you’ve passed T192, or if you’ve not received your result but achieved 40% on your assignments, you'll be adequately prepared.

If you've completed TM111 or TU100, you might benefit from revising some topics in this optional maths resource. before starting T193.

Are you ready for T193?

You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.

They’ll help by:

Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.

Course work includes:

The iCMAs don't count towards your final mark, but you must reach a set threshold on at least three.

You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:

Additionally, the website includes:

We also provide physical:

The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying T193 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.

To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.

Engineering: frameworks, analysis, production (T193) starts twice a year – in April and October.

It will next start in April 2026.

We expect it to start for the last time in October 2029.

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