Methodologies

The course consists of 28 hours of theoretical lectures, 14 hours of problem-solving sessions, and three laboratory practice sessions.

The teaching and learning methodologies include theoretical classes, problem-solving, laboratory work in pairs, research paper writing, autonomous and self-assessment activities, as well as personalized tutoring upon request — a highly recommended educational resource — and are complemented by specific bibliography related to the course syllabus.

Tutoring

The teaching staff will be available to answer students’ questions. The use of this educational resource is strongly encouraged.

CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT

To qualify for continuous assessment, students must:

• Sit the two mandatory midterm exams, which together account for 80% of the final grade (first midterm 40% and second midterm 40%).
• Complete and submit the Chemistry laboratory report, which accounts for 10% of the final grade.
• Submit a short analytical report on the construction of knowledge in surface science based on a case study “from a letter to a patent”. This activity accounts for 10% of the final grade.

SINGLE ASSESSMENT

Students who have opted for the single assessment modality must:

• Complete the Chemistry laboratory sessions and submit the corresponding report up to 48 hours before the date scheduled for the second midterm in continuous assessment. This report accounts for 10% of the final grade.
• Submit an individual practical assignment on XPS. The corresponding report accounts for 5% of the final grade.
• Submit a short analytical report on the construction of knowledge in surface science based on a case study. This activity accounts for 5% of the final grade.
• Sit a final exam covering all the theoretical content and problem-solving aspects of the course. This exam will take place on the same day as the second midterm for continuous assessment students and will account for 80% of the final grade.

REQUIREMENTS TO PASS

To pass the course, whether through continuous or single assessment, students must:

• Obtain a minimum score of 5 in the average of the two midterms or in the final synthesis exam.
• Achieve an overall grade equal to or greater than 5.0 out of 10.

If these requirements are not met but the student obtains a grade equal to or greater than 3.5, they will be entitled to a resit exam. This final exam will allow the student to pass the course with a grade of 5.0 out of 10. In the case of students under continuous assessment, they may retain the grade of any midterm exam, provided it is equal to or greater than 5.0 out of 10.

PLAGIARISM OR FRAUDULENT CONDUCT

If a student commits any irregularity that could significantly affect the evaluation grade, the activity will be graded with a 0, regardless of any disciplinary action that may follow. If multiple irregularities are detected in the same course, the final grade will be 0.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies is allowed in this course as part of the development of assignments, provided that the final result reflects a significant contribution from the student in terms of analysis and personal reflection. The student must: (i) identify which parts were generated using AI; (ii) specify the tools used; and (iii) include a critical reflection on how these tools influenced the process and final outcome. Lack of transparency in the use of AI in this graded activity will be considered academic dishonesty and will result in a grade of 0, which cannot be recovered, or more severe sanctions in serious cases.