Aims and Fit of Module

Despite the popularity of newer languages such as C++ and Java the C language remains a core skill in the software business ranking in the top ten desired skills.
C is one of the most popular languages for programming embedded systems that are found in automobiles, cameras, DVD players and many other modern appliances.
This module aims to enable students to:
Learn and use the C programming language
Use the C language to solve real engineering problems
Acquire fundamental software development skills covering program design, coding and testing

Learning outcomes

A. Understand and apply the basic principles of the C programming language; B. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the software development process; C. Apply C programming language to design, code, debug, test and document computer programs to solve practical problems; D. Understand and apply the top-down function-oriented approach to design modular programs; E. Analyse, evaluate and modify existing code written in C programming language;

Method of teaching and learning

This module is delivered as a two hour lecture and two hour practical session in the computer laboratory, each week.
The concepts introduced during the lecture are illustrated using step-by-step analysis of example code, complete case studies and live programming tutorials.
Each week the students have to solve a set of exercises during the laboratory classes and submit the completed work electronically.
The students are assisted during the practical laboratory classes by demonstrators.