Introductory description

The aim of the module is to make students more competent programmers and to expose students to different fundamental data structures and algorithmic techniques, to illustrate how choices of data structures and algorithms can impact performance and memory requirements.

Module aims

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.

Foundations of Python programming language

Performance and asymptotic runtime/complexity

Data structures such as stacks and queues, trees, hash maps

Algorithmic techniques such as recursion, divide and conquer and dynamic programming

Parallelisation

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Systematic understanding of algorithms, and a critical awareness of time complexities.
• Comprehensive understanding of typical algorithmic techniques and data structures.
• Conceptual understanding enabling critical assessments of advantages and disadvantages of algorithmic solutions for new problems.
• Knowledge of Python programming at a high standard

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Research element

Coursework will contain a research element.

Subject specific skills

Ability to program in Python

Ability to apply suitable computing algorithms and data structures to a variety of real-world applications

Ability to design and analyse efficient computing algorithms

Ability to design software solutions for complex problems

Transferable skills

Being able to apply knowledge about developing computer programs and understanding of specialist theoretical and methodological approaches, suggesting and incorporating interrelationships with other relevant disciplines in abstract and unpredictably complex contexts.

Students will obtain the cognitive skills to critically contribute to existing discourses and methodologies in the development of algorithms and computer code, suggesting new ideas, and designing systematic investigations based on critical analysis and evaluation.

Students will obtain practical skills in organising and communicating information, improving Interpersonal, team
and networking skills through engaging in classes and computer laboratories. Formative assesssment will allow students to strategically enhance their own learning.

Developing computer programs for processing data is an area with immediate relevance for increasing ethical awareness and its practical application. For example, privacy considerations should be built into code from the ground up, not added as an afterthought. The associated values will help understanding the importance of personal responsibility and ethical leadership.