| CODE | IFS0419 | ||||||||||||||||
| TITLE | Fundamentals of Computing and Programming | ||||||||||||||||
| UM LEVEL | 00 - Mod Pre-Tert, Foundation, Proficiency & DegreePlus | ||||||||||||||||
| MQF LEVEL | 3 | ||||||||||||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 5 | ||||||||||||||||
| DEPARTMENT | International School for Foundation Studies | ||||||||||||||||
| DESCRIPTION | This study-unit delivers the core concepts of computing and programming to candidates who do not have prior experience and knowledge in the field of computing. The study-unit touches upon several key topics as follows: 1. Applications of Computing; 2. The Architecture of a Computer System; 3. Computer Systems; 4. Data Representation; 5. The Role of Information and Communications Technology in Society; 6. Introduction to Word Processing, Spreadsheet and Presentation Software; 7. Algorithmic Problem Solving; 8. Introduction to Programming. Study-Unit Aims: This study-unit aims to deliver the basic concepts of computing and introduce potential candidates to the science of programming. Furthermore, IFS0419 also introduces the student to word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software. Collectively, this gives the student the core concepts required to successfully follow more advanced study-units in computing and programming taken at foundation level. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Identify the uses of computing in personal, commercial and industrial applications; - Describe the processes of inputting, processing, storing, retrieving, outputting, sending and receiving of data; - Identify the main components of a computer system; - Describe the role of the CPU; - Explain the basic features of an operating system; - List examples of input and output devices, and how these evolve with time to meet the needs of the users; - Discuss the notion of dedicated computer systems; - Differentiate between different logic gates; - Categorise different programming packages; - Identify the different roles found in an IT buisness; - Describe briefly the process of Systems Analysis and Design; - Identify and work out conversions between different numbering systems; - Highlight the need for data privacy and security; - Using flowcharts to explain simple algorithms; - Develop algorithms to simple problems; - Code simple programs in C language; - Distinguish between different types of errors that occur in coded programs; - Distinguish between assemblers, interpreters and compilers. 2. Skills: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Highlight the widespread use of computer systems in today's society and identify the advantages and responsibilities that this brings about; - Appreciate the structure of a computer system and the interface of components; - Tackle introductory questions related to numbering systems and logic circuits; - Describe briefly the process of Systems Analysis and Design; - Be efficient in using word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software; - Use flowcharts to suggest algorithmic solutions to practical problems; - Code simple programs in C language. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: - Complete Computer Science for Cambridge IGCSE and O Level (2016) by Alison Page and David Waters. ISBN: 9780198367215. - C Programming by Tutorials Point (E book). Lecture Notes |
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| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture, Independent Study & Tutorial | ||||||||||||||||
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2024/5. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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