Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2010-2011 (archived)

Module ENGI42015: Communications Networks

Department: Engineering

ENGI42015: Communications Networks

Type Tied Level 4 Credits 15 Availability Available in 2010/11 Module Cap None.
Tied to H1K709

Prerequisites

  • Communicational Fundamentals (ENGI30215) or equivalent

Corequisites

  • Radio and Design Communications (ENGI41915) ; Engineering Design (ENGI41030); Research and Development Project (ENGI41060)

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • The course develops an understanding of the fundamental principles and main types of computer Communication networks.

Content

  • Network services and layered architectures; packet and circuit switched networks; network control, flow control, routing; ethernet, wireless ethernet, token ring, ATM; Internet protocols.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Understand how network protocols and technologies have evolved to meet service requirements
  • Achieve an in-depth understanding of technologies currently in use in broadband and wide area networks, their differing characteristics and relative strengths and weaknesses
  • Be aware of the challenges faced by today's networks and the approaches being used to meet these.
Subject-specific Skills:
Key Skills:

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

  • Teaching by lectures and tutorials which are supported by a laboratory programme.
  • Written examinations are appropriate because of the wide range of in-depth, analytical material that is covered.
  • Theoretical and laboratory-based coursework contribute a formative element to the module and aid the acquisition of subject-specific and key skills.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 20 1 per week 1 hour 20
Tutorials 20 1 per week 1 hour 20
Practical's 3 1 per week for 3 weeks 3 hours 9
Preparation and Reading 101
Total 150

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 80%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written Examination (May/June 2 hours) 2 hours 100%
Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 20%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Coursework 100%

Formative Assessment:

One piece of coursework which will be assessed but not included in the final average.


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