Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2007-2008 (archived)

Module COMP1011: INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING

Department: Computer Science

COMP1011: INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING

Type Open Level 1 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2007/08 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • None.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Programming and Data Structures (COMP1082).

Aims

  • To introduce the theory and practice of programming by means of the Java programming language, and to use this in the wider context of problem solving and software development.

Content

  • The Construction of simple programs.
  • The use of objects from the Java API.
  • Using control statements to loop and make decisions.
  • Using methods to structure the algorithmic aspects of programs.
  • Defining data types through class and interface declaration.
  • Building collections of data within a program.
  • Making programs robust through the use of exceptions and exception handling.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Know the java language to a detailed level, sufficient to realise working solutions to a range of problems.
  • Decribe the nature of imperative programming in the object-oriented style.
  • Recognise good programming practice (for example: reuse, documentation, style).
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Realise solutions to problems as working Java programs.
  • Work in the object-orient paradigm through the use of classes, interfaces and packages.
  • Apply reuse by exploiting predefined components such as those of the Java API.
  • Use software tools related to programming (programming environments, compilers, interpreters, documentation tools, etc.).
Key Skills:
  • Reasoning about problems for which an algorithmic solution is suitable.
  • Recognise and apply the principles of modelling.
  • Communicate technical information.
  • Confident use of general computing tools (editors, file management, printing, etc.).
  • Reflection on learning and performance through the maintenance of a learning log (or diary).

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures provide the students with a focus for what is to be learned which is then supported by practical classes where the applcation of the theory is enabled. Summative assignments encourage and guide further independent study to be conducted. Summative examinations test the knowledge acquired and the students' ability to use this knowledge to solve complex problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 36 2 per week 1 Hour 36
Practicals 18 Weekly 2 Hours 36
Preparation and Reading 128
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 66.66%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Examination 2 hours 100%
Component: Practical Component Weighting: 33.34%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Practical 100%

Formative Assessment:

Example exercises given through the course. In addition a collection paper is sat in January.


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University