VCE Systems Engineering is for students who are interested in innovative systems thinking and problem-solving skills through the application of the systems engineering process. VCE Systems Engineering integrates mechanical (systems that utilise all forms of mechanical components) and electrotechnological (systems that utilise electrical/electronic circuitry) engineered systems. Students will be provided with opportunities to learn and engage with systems from a practical and purposeful perspective. Students also gain knowledge and understanding about technological systems and their applications. There are five key concepts underpinning the four-unit VCE course: designing, planning, producing, testing, and evaluating in a project management process.
In this unit students will investigate the software and hardware principles that underline mechanical and electrotechnical systems. They will also learn about the technologies used to harness energy sources to provide power for engineered systems.
Students will begin work on a student-designed project following the systems engineering process, developing their understanding of how different components make up a system and creating a solution to a problem. Unit 3 will focus on the design and plan of the engineering system.
In this unit, will complete the creation of the mechatronic system they researched, designed, planned and commenced production of in Unit 3. They will also investigate new and emerging technologies, consider reasons for their development and analyse their impacts.
Projects may consist of Arduino or similar microcontrollers to meet software requirements and will be combined with mechanical components to create a functional mechatronic design. Designs will be tested and analysed to evaluate performance and recommend improvements.
School-assessed Task
The student’s level of achievement in Outcome 1 in Unit 3 and Outcome 1 in Unit 4 will be assessed through a School-assessed Task.
Assessment tasks may include:
research investigations
maintaining a workbook of practical and class-based activities
problem-solving tasks
production work to create an electrotechnological/mechanical system
preparation of reports and assignments
analyses of data
an oral presentation
External assessment
The level of achievement for Units 3 and 4 is also assessed by an end-of-year examination.
The examination will contribute 30 per cent to the study score.
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The textbook will be ordered from the booklist.