COMP47340 Computational Thinking (Conversion)

Academic Year 2021/2022

This is a core module on the MSc. Computer Science (Conversion) and Higher Diploma in Computer Science programmes. The principles of computational thinking are presented through a combination of lectures, discussion sessions and workshops. Focus is on communicating concepts fundamental to modern Computer Science (e.g. algorithmic thinking, knowledge representation, logic and statistics, computability and complexity) by drawing on some “Big Ideas” and a variety of topical examples from everyday, real-world applications. You will complete a research report documenting your reflections and further research on how the elements discussed relate to computational thinking. You will research several of the topics in groups and present the results of this research at the workshops.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

This module will enable you to:

1. Appreciate the principles and technologies that underpin Apps and Websites we use everyday.
2. Explain the role of computational thinking in a number of different areas whcih underpin modern Computer Science.
3. Recognise and reflect on the power and limitations of computational processes.
4. Research and synthesise a range of "Big Ideas" in Computer Science and critically reflect on how they relate to current applications and state-of-the-art research within and beyond the field.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

10

Small Group

10

Specified Learning Activities

4

Autonomous Student Learning

76

Total

100

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
This module will be a combination of lectures, guest talks, discussion sessions with peer and group work and workshops with active task-based learning. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Essay: Independent research report on select topics of the module Coursework (End of Trimester) n/a Graded No

70

Presentation: Active participation in workshops and group presentation on selected topics Varies over the Trimester n/a Graded No

10

Continuous Assessment: Outcome report of discussion sessions Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

20


Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Detailed written feedback will be provided post-assessment for the research report at the time the provisional results are released. Oral group/class feedback will provided on the discussion session reports and the presentations.