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COMP1003J

Academic Year 2024/2025

Introduction to Software Engineering (COMP1003J)

Subject:
Computer Science
College:
Science
School:
Computer Science
Level:
1 (Introductory)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Professor Catherine Mooney
Trimester:
Spring
Mode of Delivery:
Blended
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Letter grades
Campus of Delivery:
BDIC(UCD) Beijing

Curricular information is subject to change.

This module serves as an introduction to the Software Engineering degree program, providing students with an overview of the fundamental concepts, principles, and practices that will be covered in more depth in later modules. The primary objective is to contextualize the program and familiarize students with the topics and challenges they will encounter throughout their degree.

The module introduces students to a wide variety of diverse topics including many of the challenges facing software engineers today, such as ethics, data protection, sustainability, etc. and emerging technologies such as AI and machine learning.

In addition, the module will focus on developing students' personal and professional skills, equipping them with the competencies needed to succeed in the software engineering profession. These skills include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking, as well as effective learning strategies to optimize their learning experience throughout the degree program.

Overall, this module serves as a foundation for students embarking on their Software Engineering degree program, providing them with a solid understanding of the field and the skills needed to succeed in their studies and future careers.

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

1. Explain the challenges facing software engineers today, including ethical considerations, data protection, sustainability, and emerging technologies such as AI and machine learning.
2. Analyze and evaluate the impact of software engineering on society, including the ethical and professional responsibilities of software engineers in software design and use.
3. Develop personal and professional skills needed to succeed in the software engineering profession, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
4. Demonstrate effective learning strategies to optimize their learning experience throughout the degree program, including time management, study skills, and self-reflection.
5. Collaborate with peers to complete group projects and assignments, demonstrating effective teamwork and communication skills.
6. Reflect on their learning experiences and identify areas for improvement and growth.

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

23

Specified Learning Activities

30

Autonomous Student Learning

60

Total

113


Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
The key teaching and learning approaches used in the module include: active/task-based learning; peer and group work; lectures; critical writing; student presentations.

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Additional Information:
This module is delivered overseas and is not available to students based at the UCD Belfield or UCD Blackrock campuses


 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Group Work Assignment: Each week, students write a short reflection with their groups which is added to their portfolio. The complete portfolio is submitted at the end of the semester. Week 2, Week 3, Week 4, Week 5, Week 6, Week 7, Week 9, Week 10, Week 11, Week 12 Standard conversion grade scale 40% No
60
No
Group Work Assignment: Group presentations Week 8, Week 14, Week 15 Standard conversion grade scale 40% No
20
No
Quizzes/Short Exercises: Short in-class quiz Week 10, Week 11, Week 12 Standard conversion grade scale 40% No
20
No

Carry forward of passed components
No
 

Resit In Terminal Exam
Summer No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, on an activity or draft prior to summative assessment
• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Peer review activities
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Varies throughout the Trimester

Name Role
Professor Catherine Mooney Lecturer / Co-Lecturer