CT7008 - Cloud Technology (2026/27)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2026/27 | ||||||||||||
| Module title | Cloud Technology | ||||||||||||
| Module level | Masters (07) | ||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 20 | ||||||||||||
| School | School of Computing and Digital Media | ||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 200 | ||||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2026/27(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
The Cloud Technology module offers students a thorough understanding of cloud computing, including its concepts, architectures, platforms, and services. Combining theoretical lectures, practical labs, and real-world case studies, the module equips students with the skills to design, deploy, and manage cloud-based solutions efficiently. Key topics include cloud infrastructure, security, advanced cloud technologies, and emerging trends in the field.
Prior learning requirements
Available for Study Abroad? No
Syllabus
1. Introduction to Cloud Computing [LO1]
- Definition and evolution of cloud computing.
- Characteristics of cloud computing.
- Cloud service models and deployment models.
2. Cloud Infrastructure and Platforms [LO2]
- Virtualisation and containerization technologies.
- Cloud provider ecosystems (AWS, Azure, GCP, etc.).
- Infrastructure as a Service(IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS) principles and tools.
3. Cloud Security and Compliance [LO3, LO4]
- Security challenges in the cloud.
- Identity and access management (IAM).
- Data security, encryption, and compliance standards.
4. Managing Cloud Resources [LO2, LO4]
- Deploying virtual machines, containers, and serverless functions.
- Monitoring and optimising cloud resource utilisation.
- Cost management and optimisation strategies.
5. Advanced Cloud Technologies [LO3, LO4]
- Microservices architecture and container orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes).
- Big data analytics and machine learning on the cloud.
- Serverless computing and Function-as-a-Service (FaaS).
6. Emerging Trends and Challenges [LO3]
- Edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT).
- Quantum computing and its potential impact on cloud technology.
- Ethical and legal considerations in cloud computing.
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
The module is delivered once a week in a three-hour session, typically consisting of a one-hour lecture followed by two hours of laboratory work. Students are provided access to an online curriculum and are encouraged to review the material before attending lecture sessions. Upon completing lectures on specific topics, students take regular in-class tests, receiving automated and/or in-person feedback.
The lectures are strongly supported by hands-on laboratory work, which is directly relevant to the topics covered. Students are encouraged to maintain a logbook to record summaries of their practical work, promoting reflective learning. Additionally, students are required to complete advanced laboratory exercises regularly to assess and deepen their understanding of the material.
Module Delivery:
- Duration: One semester (12 weeks)
- Delivery Mode: Blended learning (combination of face-to-face sessions and online resources)
- Location: Holloway Road Campus
Teaching and Learning Methods:
- Lectures
- Hands-on Labs
- Case Studies
- Guest Lectures from Industry Experts
- Group Discussions and Presentations
Module Evaluation:
- Student feedback surveys
- Assessment of learning outcomes
- Continuous improvement based on feedback and industry trends
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
LO1: Critically analyse cloud computing concepts by defining key characteristics, benefits, and limitations. Evaluate and compare cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and deployment models (public, private, hybrid), considering business, societal, and environmental impacts.
LO2: Design, deploy, and optimise cloud-based architectures to meet scalability, availability, performance, and security requirements. Apply computational techniques, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), and automation tools to manage cloud infrastructure, while evaluating their efficiency, environmental sustainability, and lifecycle costs.
LO3: Investigate and implement advanced cloud technologies, such as microservices, container orchestration, big data analytics, edge computing, and quantum computing. Solve complex cloud-based problems by reflecting on emerging trends and assessing their commercial, environmental, and societal implications.
LO4: Collaborate effectively to deliver innovative cloud-based solutions, working in diverse teams to address complex challenges. Critically evaluate team performance, applying industry standards and reflecting on diversity, inclusion, and leadership practices to enhance future collaboration.
Bibliography
CT7008 Cloud Technologies | London Metropolitan University
Recommended Textbooks:
1. "Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology & Architecture" by Thomas Erl, Ricardo Puttini, and Zaigham Mahmood.
2. "Architecting the Cloud: Design Decisions for Cloud Computing Service Models" by Michael J. Kavis.
3. "Mastering AWS Development" by Uchit Vyas.
References:
- Documentation and tutorials from major cloud providers (AWS, Azure, GCP).
- Research papers and articles from academic journals and industry publications.
- Online resources and forums (e.g., Stack Overflow, Reddit) for cloud-related discussions.