Module ENGI47015: Communications Networks

Department: Engineering

ENGI47015: Communications Networks

Prerequisites

• <If other modules, please enter module code using 'Right Click, Insert module_code' or enter module title>

Corequisites

• As specified in programme regulations.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• As specified in programme regulations.

Aims

• This module is designed solely for students studying Department of Engineering degree programmes.
• To provide an overview and explain some of the challenges facing designers of communications networks.
• To provide students with advanced knowledge and understanding of key networking technologies used in modern communication networks.
• To understand the principles underpinning the design of communications networks.
• To provide a firm foundation for a broad range of careers in communications networks.

Content

• Layered architectures
• Data link layer protocols
• Local area networks (LANs) and personal area networks (PANs)
• Network layer protocols
• Transport layer protocols
• Network Security

Learning Outcomes

• An understanding of the fundamentals of communications networks.
• An appreciation and understanding of the operation of current widely used communications technologies and protocols.
• An understanding of the importance of security in communications networks.

• An awareness of current technology, analysis methods and industrial practises along with the ability to apply those methods in novel situations.
• An in-depth knowledge and understanding of specialised and advanced technical and professional skills, an ability to perform critical assessment and review and an ability to communicate the results of their own work effectively.
• An ability to understand the design of complex engineering systems.

• Capacity for independent self-learning within the bounds of professional practice.
• Specialised numerical skills appropriate to an engineer.
• Mathematics relevant to the application of advanced engineering concepts.
• Problem solving skills.

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

• The module content is delivered in lectures and is reinforced by self-learning sessions and formative problem sheets, equipping students with the required problem-solving capability.
• Students can make use of staff "office hours" to discuss any aspect of the module with teaching staff on a one-to-one basis. These are sign-up sessions available for one hour per week per lecture course.
• Students will be required to submit formative problem sheets throughout the academic year into the virtual learning environment to check their understanding as the course progresses.
• Students will be formed into study groups and will attend timetabled self-learning sessions (up to a maximum of two) during the Michalemas and Epiphany terms.
• A benchmark test will take place at the start of the academic year. This will be used to guage students understanding and direct them to further study as appropriate.
• A mock exam will take place in the Epiphany term. This will be used to provide students with an exam type experience in a formative setting and allow them to discuss their performance with a member of academic staff.
• Written timed examinations are appropriate because of the wide range of analytical, in-depth material covered in this module and allow students to demonstrate the ability to solve advanced problems independently.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment is provided by means of formative problem sheets, benchmark test and mock examinations.

■ 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