Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2007-2008 (archived)

Module COMP1041: FOUNDATIONS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

Department: Computer Science

COMP1041: FOUNDATIONS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

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

Prerequisites

  • GCSE grade A or B in Maths or equivalent. NB Students are normally ineligible if they have a pass in A level Maths.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To introduce students without 'A' level mathematics to the basic concepts of mathematics in those areas most useful to computer scientists.

Content

  • Formal mathematical notation, Integers, Fundamental properties of integers, Congruence of integers.
  • Rational Numbers, Real Numbers, Logarithms.
  • Laws of Division, GCD & HCF.
  • Mathematical Induction and other Proof Techniques.
  • Permutations & Combinations.
  • Bases, Binary/Hexadecimal Numbers, Data Representation, Addressing, Instructions.
  • Algebraic Notation, Graphs.
  • Calculating Aids.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Have gained a basic knowledge of the nature and purpose of mathematical proofs.
  • Have explored the use of a formal mathematical notation.
  • Have gained an understanding of a wide variety of mathematical topics and their application to computer science.
Subject-specific Skills:
    Key Skills:

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

      • Lecturing demonstrates what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
      • Problem classes through practicals provide assessment (both formative and summative) to guide students in the correct development of their knowledge and skills.
      • The end of year examinations assess the knowledge acquired and the ability to use this knowledge to solve problems.

      Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

      Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
      Lectures 42 2 per week 1 Hour 42
      Practicals 18 Weekly 2 Hours 36
      Preparation and Reading 122
      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:

      Collection

      ■ 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