WM9A4-15 Digital Development with Python
Introductory description
This module introduces computer programming and digital development to those with little or no programming experience. It covers essential concepts common to most computer languages and helps participants practically understand and apply them.
The module specifically targets web programming and using frameworks to create professional web apps. It covers important aspects of web apps, such as databases, HTML/CSS, and basic web server/cloud functions.
Module aims
Through pre-work, lectures, demonstrations, workshops and independant learning, participants improve their programming skills and learn about programming challenges. The module ends with students creating and hosting their own application in a cloud environment, using up-to-date, cloud-native methods and the latest technologies.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
Introduction to Programming
- Types of programming language
- Programming constructs
- Programming best practice
Introduction to Python
- Python fundamentals
- Python constructs
- Python best practices
- Flask
Web Application Development
- Databases
- HTML/CSS/Tempaltes
- Interactivity and JavaScript
- Functionality
Software development
- The SDLC
- Cloud environments
- Cloud native computing
- Web servers
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Analyse business needs and collaboratively design and pitch an innovative web application proposal, demonstrating project management and communication skills.
- Critically assess and combine various programming languages to develop interactive and professional web applications.
- Critically evaluate software development lifecycle methodologies and develop both theoretical and practical workflow models.
- Critically evaluate the impact of programming in business to develop innovative solutions for business challenges.
- Critically examine various issues and design structured applications in a suitable programming language to address them.
Indicative reading list
- Matthes, E. 2023, Python crash course: a hands-on, project-based introduction to programming, 3rd edn, No Starch Press, San Francisco, CA.
- Duckett, J. 2011, HTML & CSS: design and build websites, Wiley, Indianapolis, IN.
- Mayer, C. 2022, The art of clean code: best practices to eliminate complexity and simplify your life, No Starch Press, San Francisco.
Interdisciplinary
A mixture of technology/computing topics and business topics
International
Topics are of high international demand
Subject specific skills
Programming, databases, website development, application development, software, development life cycle, cloud computing, IT architecture
Transferable skills
Programming, data analysis, problem solving, project management, communication skills, team work, critical analysis, IT architecture
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 20 sessions of 1 hour (13%) |
| Seminars | 10 sessions of 1 hour (7%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 60 sessions of 1 hour (40%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
No private study requirements defined for this module.
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You do not need to pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A2
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group Assessment | 30% | 18 hours | No |
|
In this group assessment, students collaborate to craft and pitch comprehensive proposals for web applications, addressing hypothetical business scenarios. Through detailed research, planning, and strategic design, groups outline their proposed solutions, covering technology stacks, functionalities, and deployment strategies. This project evaluates students on creativity, analytical skills, teamwork, and their ability to present a compelling case for their innovative web solutions, without the necessity for actual coding. |
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| Assignment | 70% | 42 hours | Yes (extension) |
|
In this assessment, students design an application and write code examples to solve a problem, showcasing their ability to use different programming languages and manage data effectively. They must write a report that explains how they will build the application, focusing on problem-solving, programming best practices, and the use of software development lifecycle methodologies. |
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Feedback on assessment
Verbal feedback for group assessment. Written feedback for individual assignment.
There is currently no information about the courses for which this module is core or optional.