module specification

The module introduces students to theoretical concepts underpinning computer software design; and to programming using a high-level language concentrating on sequence, selection, iteration (loops) and list processing. It is assessed by three individual online tests (30%, 30%, and 40% weighting).

It aims to enable the student to use a programming language in a familiar and confident way in a variety of practical situations, and to use an integrated programming development environment competently.
It also enables the student to design and write simple programs during workshop time, using the programming language constructs described in the syllabus below.

• Program development using a PC editor and an interpreter/compiler and other elements of an integrated development environment such as help screens.
• Introduction to input and output by displaying messages, displaying prompts and accepting input.
• Writing simple programs using the correct syntax and layout, use of comment lines. Understanding error messages, debugging programs.
• Variables: types of values including strings, integers, floats and characters.
• The use of functions; assignment statements; arithmetic operators +, -, *, /, modulus and integer division.
• Conditional execution. Repetition using loops.
• In built data types including lists and list processing.
• Taking a problem and breaking it down into manageable chunks using stepwise refinement.
• Use of pseudo code and/or structure charts, and translating a problem solution into a program structure.

Learning Outcomes LO1 - LO4

A  combination of:
• Lectures for defining theoretical concepts and to provide support for the workshop practical sessions
• Workshops for demonstrating and using software tools to acquire hands-on experience and build solutions. Open learning materials will encourage the students to work at their own speed and develop their self-learning skills.
• Progress tests, both formative and summative, will take place throughout this year long module to enable feedback for learning.  Students are expected to spend time on directed reading and additional exercises to prepare for the progress tests and to attend all tests and face to face feedback sessions.
• Blended learning through the use of a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) for providing open learning study materials, setting problem scenarios, providing prepared solutions.  Students will be encouraged to use the VLE to manage their own learning.
• Demonstration of software solutions for evaluation and reflection of individual learning.

LO1: Describe and use the main elements of computer systems and be able to use these systems and present information in an ethical and professional manner.
LO2: Appreciate the need and relevance of I/O, data types, including arrays, numbering systems, functions, algorithms, loops, etc.
LO3: Use a high level programming language together with its integrated development environment and develop tests to find faults and improve software robustness and correctness based on the workshop tasks.
LO4: Analyse a problem and produce an algorithm and then a structured program to solve the problem using a top down technique such as stepwise refinement of pseudo-code.

The module will be assessed in aggregation through progress online tests, pass mark for the module is 40%:

Diagnostic Tests, or exercises (formative): in class, in weeks 3 and 4 to test the students understanding of lecture and practical material respectively with feedback for learning given in class. Students failing these tests will be encouraged to seek additional support.

Progress tests (summative, each weighted at 30%): questions testing the students understanding of the lecture and workshop material plus a programming exercise held in the computer laboratories, in weeks 10 and 16, will assess the knowledge and practical abilities of the students. (This will assess LO2-LO4).

Exam (online multiple choice): weighting 40%. (This will assess LO1-LO4).

Consistent with University policy, formative and summative feedback will be provided at various points throughout the teaching year.

Core (URLs):
• Lee, Kent D, 2015, Python Programming Fundamentals, Springer-Verlag
ISBN 978-1-4471-6641-2
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Programming-Fundamentals-Undergraduate-   Computer-Science/dp/1447166418
• Module website on WebLearn https://bblearn.londonmet.ac.uk/webapps/blackboard/content/listContentEditable.jsp?content_id=_2817827_1&course_id=_42712_1

Additional (URLs)
• W3Schools: https://www.w3schools.in/python-tutorial
• https://www.lynda.com/Python-tutorials/Advance-your-career-Python/2244047/2249811-4.html
• https://www.lynda.com/Python-tutorials/Learning-Python/661773-2.html