Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2008-2009 (archived)

Module COMP40615: ADVANCES IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

Department: Computer Science

COMP40615: ADVANCES IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

Type Open Level 4 Credits 15 Availability Available in 2008/09 Module Cap None.

Prerequisites

  • Students may not take this module if they have previously taken ADVANCED SOFTWARE ENGINEERING (COMP3152)

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To encourage students to think critically about the applicability of existing and emerging technologies and research in a commercial environment.

Content

  • Students will study a selection of the following topics:
  • Human Computer Interaction;
  • Software Process Improvement;
  • Software Maintenance;
  • Software Evolution;
  • Software Reuse;
  • Software Slicing;
  • Examination of Non-functional Requirements;
  • Agile Methods;
  • Software testing;
  • Assessment of Risk.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • have obtained an in-depth mastery of the topics and concepts of software engineering, with emphasis in a particular, specialized area.
  • understand how these topics and concepts aid in the production of software systems.
  • have an in-depth understanding of how the topics are applied in an industrial environment.
  • know the research issues that relate to current practice and research areas, and be aware of areas of possible exploration.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • be able to critically contrast and evaluate two research themes covered by the course and identify the benefits of each in a particular domain.
Key Skills:
  • be able to communicate complex information.
  • be able to manage time and organise work effectively.

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. Through their assessed coursework students will demonstrate the knowledge they have acquired and their ability to use this knowledge to solve complex problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 9 1 per week 2 hours 18
Tutorials 2 1 hour 2
Preparation and Reading 130
Total 150

Summative Assessment

Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
comparative review 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