Recommended Study Sequence

This unit introduces a broad range of topics which make up the study of computer science. The four broad areas to be examined are Machine Architecture (data storage and manipulation), Software (operating systems, networks, programming languages), Data Organisation (data structures, file structures, database structures) and Algorithmic Machines (Theory of Computation). The treatment is intended to prepare students for later in-depth treatment of these topics.

Analysing and modeling requirements using the object-oriented (OO) approach is the core strength of this unit. The Unified Modifying Language (version 2.0) is used as a modeling standard for creating OO models in the problem space. This unit consolidates and extends the knowledge gained by students in Introduction to Analysis and Design unit and applies it to practical OO analysis work through a case study.

Computers have become ubiquitous in human society. Humans are now required in interact with computers and computing technology in almost all parts of their lives, particularly in developed countries. In this context software becomes a medium through which people can be provided with a virtual environment where they can satisfy goals related to work and play. This unit explores the theory and practice of design of the interface between this virtual environment and the people who interact with it.

This unit provides students with an in-depth understanding of the applications of computer networks and the concept of internetworking through the TCP/IP suite of protocols. Some of the network security threats along with their appropriate counter measures are also discussed. The main focus of the unit is on communication and network devices.

This unit introduces students to fundamental data structures and algorithms used in computing. The material covered forms the basis for further studies in programming and software engineering in later units. The unit focuses on the ideas of data abstraction, object-oriented programming, and software reuse. Issues relating to computational complexity of algorithms are addressed throughout the session. Topics covered include: the fundamental abstract data types (lists, stacks, queues, trees, hash tables, graphs); recursion; complexity of algorithms; internal and external sorting and searching algorithms; file structures; and B trees.

This unit builds on the knowledge of object oriented modelling acquired in the unit Object Oriented Analysis. Systems design is an important activity that takes place when developing new computer-based information systems or when maintaining existing computer-based systems. The object oriented systems design concepts and skills together with a practical knowledge of UML students will develop in this unit are essential for anyone designing contemporary information systems.

The main purpose of this unit is to provide students with an opportunity to gain a basic knowledge of database design and development including data modeling methods and techniques and database implementation using a database management system

This unit introduces students to the design, implementation and operation of internet and intranet web sites. It includes the design, development and implementations of server-side applications, the use of multi-media and human interaction on the browser side, the management and operation of internet/intranet systems and the interaction of these information systems with society and the corporate world. Security, access rights, financial transactions and legal issues are also covered. A major component of this unit is working with server/browser applications in ASP or similar programming environment and the development of web based information systems and methodologies. This unit is heavily orientated to practical experience in developing the theoretical concepts.