Aims and Fit of Module

This module paves the foundation for undergraduate students in the computer science or computer systems streams with a comprehensive understanding of computer systems including computer organization and operating systems. It also aims to equip them with the knowledge and skills to design and write assembly programs for simple problems solving. This module prepares students for their further study in the later years of computer science and computer systems.

Learning outcomes

A. Identify and explain the core components of computer systems, including their functions and how they interact.
B. Distinguish between the key architectural levels of computer systems and explain how their functions and interactions differ.
C. Apply the knowledge learnt about computer systems to design and implement simple algorithms in assembly language to solve basic problems.
D. Describe the core functions of a modern operating system, including its management of hardware resources and interactions with user processes.

Method of teaching and learning

Students will be expected to attend between two and three hours of formal lectures as well as to participate in up to one hour of supervised practicals in a computer lab in a typical week. Lectures will introduce students to the academic content and practical skills which are the subject of the module, while computer practicals will allow students to practice those skills.In addition, students will be expected to devote roughly two hours of unsupervised time to solving continuous assessment tasks and private study per week. Private study will provide time for reflection and consideration of lecture material and background reading.Continuous assessment will be used to test how far practical skills have been learnt. A written examination at the end of the module will assess the academic achievement of students.