Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024 (archived)

Module COMP52215: Advanced Algorithms and Discrete Systems

Department: Computer Science

COMP52215: Advanced Algorithms and Discrete Systems

Type Tied Level 5 Credits 15 Availability Available in 2023/24 Module Cap None.
Tied to G5T109
Tied to G5T209
Tied to G5T309
Tied to G5T409

Prerequisites

  • PHYS52015 Introduction to Scientific and High Performance Computing

Corequisites

  • n/a

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • n/a

Aims

  • Provide advanced knowledge and critical understanding of paradigms, fundamental ideas, algorithms and methods behind the modelling and simulation of discrete systems
  • Provide advanced knowledge and critical understanding of paradigms, fundamental ideas and methods behind advanced algorithms

Content

  • Advanced Algorithms
  • Discrete Systems

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Understanding and critical reflection of advanced ideas, numerical techniques and algorithms used to study discrete models
  • Understanding and critical reflection of advanced engineering algorithms in high-performance computing and data analysis
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Basic familiarity with state-of-the-art algorithms to solve large-scale and data intense challenges
  • Competence to translate discrete problem descriptions into algorithmic formulations; competent and educated selection of appropriate solution algorithms
Key Skills:
  • Familiarity with advanced paradigms and modern algorithms underlying scientific computing for discrete systems, and their analysis

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

  • Teaching will be by lectures and workshops.
  • The lectures provide the means to give a concise, focused presentation of the subject matter of the module.
  • When appropriate, the lectures will also be supported by the distribution of written material, or by information and relevant links on Ultra.
  • Regular problem exercises and workshops will give students the chance to develop their theoretical understanding and problem solving skills.
  • Students will be able to obtain further help in their studies by approaching their lecturers, either after lectures or at other mutually convenient times.
  • Student performance will be summatively assessed through coursework.
  • The formative coursework provides opportunities for feedback, for students to gauge their progress and for staff to monitor progress throughout the duration of the module.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures for Advanced Algorithms 12 3 per week 60 minutes 12
Practical Classes for Advanced Algorithms 4 1 per week 60 minutes 4
Lectures for Discrete Systems 12 3 per week 60 minutes 12
Practical Classes for Discrete Systems 4 1 per week 60 minutes 4
Self Study 118
Total 150

Summative Assessment

Component: Summative Coursework Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Advanced Algorithms Coursework 1 week 50% Yes
Discrete Systems Coursework 1 week 50% Yes

Formative Assessment:

n/a


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