Overview
Introduction to the concept of programming languages, and to Fortran 90 in particular.
Introduction to the UNIX operating system: including text editors, the directory system, basic utilities, the edit-compile-run cycle.
Introduction to Fortran 90, including the use of variables, constants, arrays and the different Fortran data types; iteration (do-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 Fortran open and close statements, practical read/write of data files. The handling of character variables.
Programming to solve physical/chemistry problems.
Details
Contact hours
Workshops (34 hours).
Total study time 150 hrs (including private study time).
Availability
This is not available as a wild module.
Method of assessment
Coursework 100% including class tests and homework
Indicative reading
Introduction to Programming with Fortran: With Coverage of Fortran 90, 95, 2003, 2008, 77; Chivers, Ian & Sleightholme, Jane, (2012) ISBN 9780857292322. Copies in library and online.
Programming in Fortran 90: A First Course for Engineers and Scientists; Smith, I., (1995) ISBN 0471941859
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
Learning outcomes
A systematic understanding of how computers work according to human's instructions.
Knowledge and understanding of computing programme F90 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.
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.
Notes
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- ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
- The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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