This is an archived handbook for a previous year. The current undergraduate and postgraduate handbooks can be viewed using the links above.
Undergraduate Handbook 2010-2011 (archived)
Module COMP1071: COMPUTER SYSTEMS
Department: Computer Science
COMP1071: COMPUTER SYSTEMS
| Type | Level | Credits | Availability | Module Cap | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open | 1 | 20 | Available in 2010/2011 | None. | Durham |
Pre-requisites
- None.
Corequisites
- None
Excluded Combinations
- None.
Aims
- This module aims to give students an appreciation and understanding of the way in which modern computer systems (i.e. hardware and software) can effectively represent, transport and manipulate data.
Content
- Introduction to digital computers, binary arithmetic, and logic gates.
- Propositional calculus for logic design.
- Data Representation.
- Simple CPU architecture.
- Machine-code instructions for a simplified CPU.
- Introduction to the theory and design of operating systems.
- Operating system components purpose, algorithms and design issues.
- Volatile and Non-volatile memory/storage issues.
- Introduction to Network technologies, protocols and architectures.
- Introduction to database development and Database Management Systems.
- Basic set theory and relational algebra to support database modelling methods.
- Entity Relational modelling, Normalisation, and Query design (using SQL).
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge
- Understand a computer systems underlying machine architecture.
- Understand the theory and design of operating systems.
- Understand the fundamental principles of network technologies and architectures.
- Understand and apply the principles of good database construction.
Subject-specific Skills
- Demonstrate the ability to apply core concepts in the design, construction and maintenance of complex computer systems.
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 | Attendance Monitored |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 40 | 2 per week | 1 Hour | 40 | |
| Practicals | 20 | 1 per week | 2 Hours | 40 | Yes |
| Preparation and Reading | 120 | ||||
| Total | 200 |
Summative Assessment
| Component | Component Weighting | Element | Length/Duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Examination | 66% | Examination | 2 hours | 100% | Yes |
| Coursework | 34% | Practical work | 100% | Yes |
Formative Assessment
Example exercises given through the course. In addition a collection paper for the module is sat during a student's first practical class of the 2nd term. Additional revison lectures may be arranged in the modules lecture slots in the 3rd term.
Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods
and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative
assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress
procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be
required to leave the University.