Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2007-2008 (archived)

Module COMP3332: ADVANCED SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS AND METHODS (40 CREDITS)

Department: Computer Science

COMP3332: ADVANCED SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS AND METHODS (40 CREDITS)

Type Open Level 3 Credits 40 Availability Available in 2007/08 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Computer Systems 2 (COMP2061), AND Software Applications (COMP2071).

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Advanced Software Applications and Methods (20 Credits) COMP3331.

Aims

  • To build-upon students' existing knowledge to give them a detailed understanding of advanced topics within computing relating to the design and development of software applications.

Content

  • Computer Graphics.
  • Real-time software.
  • Distributed systems.
  • Concurrency.
  • Program language design.
  • Compiling.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Have an in-depth understanding of four topic areas taught and know how they may be applied to solve significant and typical problems within computer science.
  • Know the research issues that relate to each of the four topics including current practices, recent developments and further areas for possible exploration.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Be able to critically evaluate how the four topics could be used within and industrial setting.
  • Be able to demonstrate that they have conducted significant self-study and research in each of the four topic areas.
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.
    • Homework problems identify areas where further independent research should 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 38 2 per week 2 hours 76
    Preparation and Reading 324
    Total 400

    Summative Assessment

    Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 30%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    coursework 100%
    Component: Examination Component Weighting: 70%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    three-hour examination 100%

    Formative Assessment:

    Example exercises given through the course.


    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