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 textbooks/tutor created materials provided at the start of the year, lectures, demonstrations, workshops and independant learning, participants improve their programming skills and learn about programming challenges. The module ends with students creating their own application and an understanding of how to host their web 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 best practices
- Python Flask framework
Web Application Development
- Databases
- HTML/CSS/Templates
- 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 a design brief and develop a functional web-based component or application within a limited timeframe.
- Create a functional web application that addresses a business need, applying core programming principles and best practice.
- Explain and justify key programming decisions in relation to functionality, structure, and user needs.
- Reflect critically on the development process, identifying challenges and evaluating how they were addressed.
Indicative reading list
- Connolly, R. and Hoar, R. (2021) Fundamentals of web development. 3rd edn. Harlow: Pearson.
- 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.
- Grinberg, M. (2018) Flask web development: developing web applications with Python. 2nd edn. Sebastopol, CA: O’Reilly Media.
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 | 10 sessions of 1 hour (7%) |
| Seminars | 20 sessions of 1 hour (13%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 20 sessions of 1 hour (13%) |
| Private study | 40 hours (27%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Private study will include preparing for lectures and seminars, reviewing lecture notes, and engaging with required readings and multimedia resources.
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A3
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
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| Timed Web Development Activity | 30% | 18 hours | No |
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This is an individual, time-limited practical assessment. Students will be given a design brief for a small web-based feature or application and will be required to implement a working solution within a fixed timeframe. The assessment focuses on interpreting requirements, making appropriate development decisions, and applying core programming skills under timed conditions. No prior knowledge of the specific brief is required, but students are expected to demonstrate their understanding of programming fundamentals and the ability to work independently. |
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Reassessment component |
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| Individiual Assessment | Yes (extension) | ||
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Students will complete an individual reflective report based on a provided design brief. The report will focus on how they would approach implementing a solution to meet the brief, including the key design and technical decisions they would make, how they would manage the task under time constraints, and reflections on their development as a programmer. |
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Assessment component |
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| Individual Web Application Development and Reflective Report | 70% | 42 hours | Yes (extension) |
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Students will design and develop a small web application that addresses a defined business need. The written submission will support the application by explaining key programming decisions, demonstrating how best practices were applied, and reflecting on the development process. Students are expected to show a clear understanding of programming principles, explain their problem-solving approach, and critically reflect on any challenges encountered and how they were addressed. |
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Reassessment component is the same |
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Feedback on assessment
Written feedback will be provided for both assessments.
Courses
This module is Optional for:
- Year 1 of TWMS-H1S4 Postgraduate Taught e-Business Management (Full-time)