This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
Introduction to the concept of programming languages.
Introduction to practical programming, including the use of variables, constants, arrays and the different data types; iteration (loops) and conditional branching (if statements).
Modular design: subroutines and functions, the intrinsic functions.
Simple input/output, such as the use of format statements for reading and writing, File handling, including the open and close statements, practical read/write of data files. The handling of character variables.
Programming to solve physical/chemistry problems.
Total contact hours: 40
Private study hours: 110
Total study hours: 150
This is not available as a wild module.
Assignment 1 (3 hours, 10%)
Assignment 2 (3 hours, 10%)
Assignment 3 (3 hours, 10%)
Assignment 4 (3 hours, 10%)
Assignment 5 (3 hours,10%)
Assignment 6 (3 hours,10%)
Assignment 7 (3 hours,10%)
Assignment 8 (3 hours,10%)
Assignment 9 (6 hours, 20%)
The Python language reference manual: For Python version 3.2; Guido Van Rossum (2011), ISBN: 9781906966140. Copy in library and content available online.
The Python language reference; Python Software Foundation (2019); docs.python.org
Learn Python 3 the Hard Way: A Very Simple Introduction to the Terrifyingly Beautiful World of Computers and Code; Zed Shaw (2014); ISBN: 0134692888
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Have:
A systematic understanding of how computers work according to human's instructions.
Knowledge and understanding of computing languages and principles, and their application to diverse areas of applications.
An ability to solve problems in physics/mathematics/chemistry using appropriate mathematical tools. Ability to use computational methods for the practical application of theory and to use information technology and data-processing skills to search for, assess and interpret chemical information and data.
An ability to use mathematical techniques and analysis to model physical behaviour using computer programming.
Competent use of appropriate C&IT packages/systems for the analysis of data and the retrieval of appropriate information.
An ability to present and interpret information graphically using a computer.
An ability to make use of appropriate texts, research-based materials or other learning resources as part of managing their own learning, and develop simple algorithms.
Ability to recognise and analyse problems and plan strategies for their solution by the evaluation, interpretation and synthesis of scientific information and data. Ability to adapt and apply methodology above to solve advanced and unfamiliar problems found in computer programming.
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Have:
Programming skills, in the context of both problems with well-defined solutions and open-ended problems. Numeracy is subsumed within this area.
Analytical skills – associated with the need to pay attention to detail and to develop an ability to manipulate precise and intricate ideas, to construct logical arguments and to use technical language correctly.
Personal and interpersonal skills – the ability to work independently, to use initiative, to organise oneself to meet deadlines and to interact constructively with other people within a professional environment. Including the ability to communicate and interact with professionals from other disciplines.
Problem-solving skills, relating to qualitative and quantitative information, extending to situations where evaluations have to be made on the basis of limited information .Including the demonstration of self-direction and originality.
Information-retrieval skills, in relation to primary and secondary information sources, including information retrieval through on-line computer searches.
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