A quick tour of the modules
Note: The teaching period for Semester 2 runs from Monday 28th January to Friday 19th April 2019 Semester 2 exams begin on Monday 13th May 2019.
Tutor: Dr Cathryn Peoples
This module examines issues of hardware and software performance, quality of service, resilience and robustness should be taken into account specific to the class of application and service. This module investigates the issues surrounding the provision of scalable services across differing network topologies, architectures and protocols and the operation of high-performance networks with particular consideration of the problems faced in combatting the growing threat to computer and network security. Engineering and security challenges linked to the growing deployment of Cloud Computing, Virtualisation, Internet of things, Machine-to-Machine communcations and Big Data will also be highlighted.
Credit value: 20 points
Coursework: 25%
Examination: 75%
Preparation tip: COM505 examines current and future developments in Computer Networks - including the potential (and the problems) of extending the network into deep space. Both hardware and software issues will be investigated. A keen interest in advances in computing technology would be a distinct advantage - but please contact me for suggested directed reading.
Tutor: Dr Darryl Charles
This module aims to provide students with an opportunity to learn about the algorithms which are used for game graphics, AI, or physics, and how they are used in combination to create fun and immersive game experiences. The essential theory of the algorithms will be explained and students will be able to put this theory into practice using commercial quality software tools and hardware. Practical implementation issues will be discussed and state-of-the art topics will be addressed.
Credit value: 20 points
Coursework: 50%
Examination: 50%
Preparation tip: COM525 deals with the three main aspects of game development: physics, AI, and graphics. Usually, the lecturer focuses on one area more than the others and this year he will concentrate on AI. AI algorithms are very interesting to study for game character development but knowledge of State Machines, Neural Networks, Genetic Algorithms, Reinforcement Learning and other AI and machine learning technologies are also beneficial to computer programming in general.
Tutors: Prof Philip Morrow and Prof Bryan Scotney
This module explores the Internet of Things (IoT) - the term given to the billions of interconnected devices, sensors and relays that will make possible the intelligent systems of the future. In particular, we present the hardware and networking infrastructure that enables the field, and examine three main current areas of IoT activity - connected devices, smart environments and big data.
Credit value: 20 points
Coursework: 25%
Examination: 75%
Preparation tip: Internet of Things is a module that combines a study of the hardware framework with an examination of the vast quantities of data generated. It does not build on any previous module in particular and can be taken without any previous modules in maths, hardware or networks - any concepts required will be coverred in the module. The best preparation would be a general awareness of Internet of Things, including concepts such as Smart Cities, Smart Clothing and Big Data. Contact us for suggested background reading!
Tutor: Dr Adrian Moore
This module provides an opportunity to explore the current trend for single-stack development of web and mobile applications. This is accomplished by introducing the MEAN development stack and associated packages; providing students with the tools to enter the professional web and mobile app development industry, either as an independent start-up developer, or as a team member in one of the many global organisations that have adopted this technology for their online application provision.
Credit value: 20 points
Coursework: 100%
Preparation tip: The MEAN development stack consists of MongoDB, Express, AngularJS and Node.JS - which combine to provide a Javascript framework for web applications. It is quickly gaining traction in industry as a key development platform and there are many opportunities for developers fluent in this new methodology. The best preparation for the module would be to revise JavaScript material from Year 2 - or to brush up using one of the many excellent on-line courses. Contact me for further details