Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024 (archived)
Module PHYS52015: Core Ib: Introduction to Scientific and High-Performance Computing
Department: Physics
PHYS52015: Core Ib: Introduction to Scientific and High-Performance Computing
| Type | Tied | Level | 5 | Credits | 15 | Availability | Available in 2023/24 | Module Cap | None. |
|---|
| Tied to | G5K609 |
|---|
Prerequisites
- A UK first or upper second class honours degree (BSc) or equivalent in Physics or a subject with basic physics courses OR in Computer Science OR in Mathematics OR in any natural sciences with a strong quantitative element. Programming knowledge in at least one programming language and commitment to learning C and Python independently if not known before.
Corequisites
- PHYSPGNEW02
Excluded Combination of Modules
- None
Aims
- Provide basic knowledge and critical understanding of paradigms, fundamental ideas and trends in High Performance Computing (HPC)
- Provide basic knowledge and critical understanding of paradigms, fundamental ideas, algorithms and methods of numerical simulation.
Content
- Introduction to High-Performance Computing
- Introduction to numerical methods, scientific computing and simulation
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- understanding and critical reflection of fundamental ideas and techniques in the application of HPC techniques
- understanding and critical reflection of fundamental ideas and techniques in the application of numerical methods
Subject-specific Skills:
- Competent and educated selection and application of programming languages, algorithms and computing tools for specific problems.
Key Skills:
- familiarity with basic paradigms and modern concepts underlying scientific computing
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 DUO.
- 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 in Introduction to Scientific Computing | 8 | 2 per week | 1 hour | 8 | |
| Practical Classes in Introduction to Scientific Computing | 8 | 2 per week | 1 hour | 8 | |
| Lectures in Introduction to HPC | 8 | 2 per week | 1 hour | 8 | |
| Practical Classes in Introduction to HPC | 8 | 2 per week | 1 hour | 8 | |
| Self-study | 118 | ||||
| Total | 150 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: Coursework | Component Weighting: 100% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| Scientific Computing Coursework | 50% | ||
| HPC Coursework | 50% | ||
Formative Assessment:
Feedback on coursework
■ 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