Automated Code Generation | COMP6209 | University of Southampton

Module overview

This module aims to cover the topic of production of code via automated means. This topic incorporates the different approaches to metaprogramming that are available in mainstream languages and also touches on issues such as automated generation of testing code and software product lines. The course is practical in nature and reasonable programming skills in Java and possibly also C++ are required. The module is optional but at least one out of this module and Automated Software Verification must be taken by MSc Software Engineering students.

Aims and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

High-level concepts in code generation
Basic aspect-oriented programming concepts
Software Engineering practices for Software Product Lines

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Apply aspect-oriented programming techniques to your code base

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Use a range of generative programming techniques in your software development
Use code generation techniques to facilitate automated testing

Syllabus

Automated code generation concepts
Software product Lines
Programs as data structures
Template based metaprogramming
Quote based metaprogramming
Rewrite based code generation
Aspect oriented programming
Automated generation of testing code

Learning and Teaching

Study time
Type	Hours
Tutorial	12
Follow-up work	18
Lecture	36
Preparation for scheduled sessions	18
Completion of assessment task	16.5
Revision	10
Wider reading or practice	39.5
Total study time	150

Assessment

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Continuous Assessment	40%
Final Assessment	60%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Set Task	100%

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Set Task	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External