Module overview
This module introduces students to the principles of programming, and provides them with the programming skills necessary to continue the study of computer science. Python and C are used as the introductory languages.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Design, implement, debug and test simple programs in Python and C
- Analyse a problem in a systematic manner
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Basic programming constructs including sequence, selection and iteration, the use of identifiers, variables and expressions, and a range of data types
- Good programming style in Python and C
Syllabus
The Python programming language
• Writing and running programs
• Types, variables, values and scope
• Functions
• Computational thinking
• Loops, arrays and data structures
The C programming language
• Introduction to the language
• Pointers and pointer arithmetic
• Memory management
• Data structures and arrays
• Comparison with Python
Software Development
• Integrated Development Environments
• Testing and debugging
• Software design (What makes a good program)
• Programming style
• Designing applications (moving from problem to solution)
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The content of this module is delivered through lectures, the module website, directed reading and pre-recorded materials.
Students work on their understanding through a combination of independent study and preparation for timetabled activities, along with formative assessments in the form of coursework assignments.
Students work on their practical skills and technical understanding in technical laboratories and assessed laboratories.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 10 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Completion of assessment task | 38 |
| Revision | 8 |
| Lecture | 36 |
| Wider reading or practice | 20 |
| Specialist Laboratory | 20 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Assessment
Assessment strategy
This module is assessed by a combination of coursework, assessed laboratories and a final assessment in the form of a computer aided examination.Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Laboratory Exercises | 20% |
| Examination | 40% |
| Coursework | 40% |