What will I learn on this module?
Thinking like a computer scientist means more than being able to program a computer. It requires solving problems at multiple levels of abstraction. Before any programming begins the solution to the problem must be understood. Using real world case studies, in this module you will develop skills to decode client’s problems developing skills of abstraction and systems design to specify solutions. A key skill employers seek is the ability to solve problems, in this module you will develop computational thinking to achieve this. Computational thinking is a range of mental tools such as algorithms, modelling, logic, generalisation, decomposition, abstraction, pattern recognition and others that reflect the full breadth of Computer Science. Computational thinking is about solving problems, designing systems and understanding human behaviour. This module will teach you to reformulate seemingly difficult problems into solvable ones by using processes such as reduction, embedding, transformation or simulation.
Computational thinking can be applied to a wide variety of subject areas beyond computing, to the sciences, the arts and business. Whether developing a start-up for the latest sustainable product or fighting for social justice you will learn to be able to apply computational thinking’s vocabulary (for example algorithm, precondition, non-determinism, etc.) to many non-digital problems. In this module you will learn not to program but to conceptualize. You will learn not by rote skill, but instead by leveraging fundamental principles, by engaging with ideas not artefacts, and by embedding learning and exploration in your experience. Computational thinking has implications for everyone, everywhere and it will be integral to your future in both digital and real-life endeavours.
During ‘Computational thinking’ you will work through a series of exercises, making use of Northumbria’s state-of-the-art computer labs and digital security lab. You will also critically engage with research outputs as part of your research-rich learning. The principal elements of assessment will be directed exercises in which you try to answer questions correctly, and a project in which you will explore and decompose a problem before trying to identify a solution.
How will I learn on this module?
Supported by a number of lectures and workshops, you will learn primarily through the process of solving a collection of structured problems. Lectures will support you by articulating a number of approaches and strategies. These, in combination with your independent learning, personal style and approach, will be developed in hands-on sessions in the fully equipped computing labs.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Successful academic achievement requires a system of robust support and guidance to help you focus on your learning needs.
Lectures and seminars will be delivered by the module team and will focus on key concepts introduced within the main topics and subject areas of the module. The tutors involved in delivering this module will provide guidance and academic direction to ensure that you are able to confidently engage with the academic rigour of this module. Extensive support is also accessible online as part of the University’s commitment to technology enhanced learning. This employs the use of the e-learning portal (Blackboard) and social networking and collaborative tools. The Library offers support for all students the range of books and other electronic resources. A central feature of the academic support available to you is the service provided by the University Library. This 24/7 service caters for all your learning needs, has extensive access to electronic texts and has tutorials that will directly support the development of academic skills aimed at improving your critical thinking and study skills.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
ML01 – Understand stakeholder needs and software quality issues across the software lifecycle
ML02 – Develop ability for problem decomposition and abstraction, and an appreciation for continuous refinement and improvement
ML03 – Develop knowledge of and, practical approaches to, algorithmic thinking.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
ML04 – Demonstrate ability to solve problems using a structured approach.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
ML05 – Demonstrate professional and reflective practitioner attributes, including the ability to plan and record self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning and continuing professional development.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment will take the form of exercises to help you apply the concepts covered in the lectures and to check your understanding. Your tutors will provide you with feedback on your work.
There are two summative assessments each worth 50% of your overall mark. This will bring together each of your new skills and techniques. This will be comprised of a series of practical tasks. Part one of the assessment will be a directed exercise in which you will engage in algorithmic thinking to solve a problem (this will address MLO1, MLO3 and MLO4). Part two of the assessment will be a project in which you will decompose a problem and present a solution or approach (this will address MLO1, MLO2, MLO4, and MLO5). Each part will be limited to 1,500 words of equivalent.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Thinking like a computer scientist means more than being able to program a computer. It requires solving problems at multiple levels of abstraction. Before any programming begins the solution to the problem must be understood. Using real world case studies in this module you will develop skills to decode client’s problems developing skills of abstraction and systems design to specify solutions. A key skill employers seek is the ability to solve problems. In this module you will develop computational thinking to achieve this. Computational thinking is a range of mental tools such as algorithms, modelling, logic, generalisation, decomposition, abstraction, pattern recognition and others that reflect the full breadth of Computer Science. Computational thinking is about solving problems, designing systems and understanding human behaviour. This module will teach you to reformulate seemingly difficult problem into solvable ones by using processes such as reduction, embedding, transformation or simulation.
Course info
UCAS Code G411
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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