Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2012-2013 (archived)

Module COMP2161: COMPUTER SYSTEMS II

Department: Computer Science

COMP2161: COMPUTER SYSTEMS II

Type Open Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2012/13 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Computer Systems (COMP1071) AND Introduction to Programming (COMP1011).

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To extend students understanding of the principles and major influences of the overall functions and performance of large scale computer systems.

Content

  • Distributed systems.
  • Real-time systems.
  • Advanced databases.
  • Software and system architectures.
  • Networks.
  • Concurrency.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • To obtain an intuitive understanding of the programming principles and applications used to solve typical computing problems such as concurrency and real time application.
  • To gain a detailed understanding of the difficulties encountered with setting up, and technologies used to support large computer networks.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • To gain a thorough understanding of the difficulties encountered with and the technologies used in setting up, supporting and using various computer networks and systems.
  • To obtain an understanding of the programming principles and applications used to solve fundamental computing problems concerning various computer networks and systems.
  • To be able to implement and work with different types of computer systems.
  • To be able to apply the core principles and use specific software tools related to network communication and concurrent and distributed programming.
Key Skills:
  • To be able to reason about applications involving a variety of types of computer system.
  • To be able to communicate technical information in a scientific fashion.
  • To be able to confidently use tools relating to computer systems and networks.

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.
  • Tutorials provide active engagement and feedback to the learning process.
  • 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 40 2 per week 1 Hour 40
Tutorials 2 1 hour 2
Practicals 40 1 per week 2 hours 40
Preparation and Reading 118
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 34%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Practical work 100% Yes
Component: Examination Component Weighting: 66%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Examination 2 hours 100% Yes

Formative Assessment:

Example exercises given through the course. Additional revison lectures may be arranged in the modules lecture slots in the 3rd term.


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