Fundamentals of Photonics Exam (5 ECTS)

Exam for the course Fundamentals of Photonics.

Objective

The oral exam aims to evaluate the student's ability to understand, analyze, and apply advanced concepts in photonics through a design study involving recent research papers on optical technologies. This assessment will focus on the student's capability to:

Design a research study.
Critically evaluate existing research.
Propose innovative solutions.

Structure

1. Selection of research papers

Task: The student selects 2-3 recent research papers related to a specific topic in optical technologies. Possible topics include photonic crystal fibers, optical communication systems, laser technology, integrated photonics, and quantum optics.
Duration: 1 week
Criteria: Papers should be from reputable journals or conferences and must be interrelated to form a coherent basis for the proposed study.

2. Design study proposal

Task: The student prepares a detailed design study proposal based on the selected papers.
Components:

Introduction: Overview of the topic and significance of the selected papers.
Literature review: Summary of key findings and methodologies from the selected papers.
Research gap identification: Identification of gaps or areas for further research.
Objectives: Clear statement of the design study's objectives.
Methodology: Detailed methodology including experimental setup, theoretical models, and analytical techniques.
Expected outcomes: Description of anticipated results and their potential impact.
Innovation and applications: Discussion on how the study could lead to innovative solutions or applications.

Duration: 2 weeks
Submission: The proposal must be submitted one week before the oral exam.

3. Oral presentation and examination

Duration: 10 minutes presentation + 10 minutes Q&A

Presentation (10 minutes):
- Summary of selected papers: Highlight the main contributions and methodologies.
- Design study proposal: Present the detailed proposal.
- Critical analysis: Provide a critical evaluation of the chosen papers.
Q&A session (10 minutes):
- Understanding of research papers: Questions on fundamental concepts and methodologies.
- Design study justification: Rationale and feasibility of the proposed study.
- Impact and innovation: Discussion on the potential impact and novelty of the study.
- Critical thinking: Responses to questions demonstrating critical analysis and synthesis of information.

Preparation guidelines

Selection of research papers
- Choose recent, high-impact papers from reputable sources.
- Ensure papers are related and provide a coherent basis for the study.
In-depth understanding
- Thoroughly read and understand each paper.
- Note methodologies, results, and implications.
Proposal development
- Identify a clear research gap based on the literature review.
- Develop a feasible and detailed research methodology.
- Consider practical applications and potential impact.
Presentation skills
- Prepare a clear and concise presentation.
- Practice delivery and anticipate potential questions.
Critical thinking
- Be ready to discuss and defend the proposed study.
- Show the ability to think critically about research and propose innovative solutions.

Evaluation criteria

Understanding of research papers (30%)
- Depth of understanding and ability to summarize key findings and methodologies.
Design study proposal (40%)
- Clarity, feasibility, and innovation of the proposed study.
- Thoroughness of methodology and expected outcomes.
Presentation skills (15%)
- Clarity, organization, and professionalism of the presentation.
- Effective communication of complex ideas.
Critical analysis and response (15%)
- Ability to critically analyze selected papers and identify research gaps.
- Quality of responses during the Q&A session.

Grading

The 7-point grading scale is used for the assessment.

The highest grade is 12, and corresponds to:
"an excellent performance displaying a high level of command of all aspects of the relevant material, with no or only a few minor weaknesses"
The minimum grade for passing the exam is 2, and corresponds to:
"a performance meeting only the minimum requirements for acceptance"