Introduction to Computer Systems Development

This module provides a basic introduction to functional and non functional requirements capture and Use Case modelling. It also highlights the stages in the development of, and typical deployment architectures for, computer systems. On completion of this module, students should be able to: explain the need, when undertaking computer systems development, to capture and document both functional and non-functional requirements and the purpose of Use Case modelling; describe the process of software development and the disciplines involved such as analysis, design and test; define the key hardware and software architectures used to provide computer system functionality.

Introduction to Software Development

This module provides a basic introduction to the principles and practice of object oriented programming, including simple data types and programming structures. It will also introduce the development process of software design, coding and testing using an appropriate high level language. It will enable students to develop, implement and test, the software algorithm for a simple set of program requirements. On completion of this module, students should be able to: understand the basic principles of object-oriented programming, including the concept of inheritance; understand how programming relates to other software development activities; demonstrate the ability to write some simple object-oriented code.

Introduction to Web Development

This module provides an introduction to the architecture of the web and the development of web pages with XHTML and CSS. On completion of this module, students should be able to: describe the client server/ Web architecture; interpret and apply current XHTML mark-up; apply the Cascading Style Sheet (CSS) language to style web pages; develop simple, multi-page web sites utilising XHTML.

Information Systems and Computer Technologies

This module provides coverage of the basic concepts and technologies related to the operation of computers systems (e.g. hardware elements of a computer system, operating system fundamentals and commonly available utilities) and computer networks (e.g. network devices, device addressing and their role in providing connectivity between systems). Students will gain practical experience in the configuration of these technologies through a programme of lab work. On completion of this module, students should be able to: describe the structure and principles of operation of hardware elements in a computer system; explain the structure and principles of operation of a generic operating system; explain the basic operation of a simple local area network; implement a simple local area network and achieve connectivity between hosts.

 

Introduction to Database Development

This module provides an introduction to database technologies. These technologies include basic Relational Data Modelling concepts and practice, and simple data querying. Students will develop and query a simple database which provides a specific functional element of an information system. On completion of this module, students should be able to: describe the basic principles of the relational database model; define and create tables for a simple database; create forms for entering data into the database; define queries and reports to retrieve information from the database.