What will I learn on this module?
This module will provide you with knowledge and understanding of physical computing systems, their existing applications within society and their potential impact. You will be encouraged to explore potential applications of physical computing systems to existing problems. By applying programming skills to systems using microcontrollers you will demonstrate your response to a variety of real-world challenges.
This will be underpinned by acquiring academic and intellectual skills and competencies needed as a computing professionals.
How will I learn on this module?
You will be introduced to concepts, principles, and critical considerations of physical computing systems in lectures. This will be complemented by practical workshop sessions that will offer opportunities to put these concepts into practice through a range of exercises and guided learning activities.
You will be encouraged to develop independent learning skills to explore potential solutions to real-world challenges.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
This module will combine a range of methods to support your learning. Advice and feedback will be given on the exercises and activities in workshops.
The module team will guide and support you throughout the lectures and workshop sessions.
You will be encouraged to support each other through peer learning and feedback.
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. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
MLO1: Demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles of physical computing and its applications.
MLO2: Understand the role of data in physical computing systems.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
MLO3: Demonstrate how to apply basic programming skills to microcontrollers.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
MLO4: Demonstrate an awareness of the application and impact of physical computing systems in wider society.
How will I be assessed?
The summative assessment will consist of two assessments.
The first assignment is a video demonstration of your final physical computing system. This is worth 50% of the marks for the module and assesses MLOs 2, and 3.
The second assignment is an individual log of your design and development journey and assesses MLOs 1 and 4.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
As computing becomes ubiquitous, we see the use of physical Internet of Things devices in homes, businesses and wider society become the norm. As these devices become embedded into people’s lives it is important to understand how they are designed, developed, and deployed.
This module will help you to consolidate and extend your existing programming skills by applying the concepts you have already learned to physical computing systems. You will learn how to programme microcontrollers and use them to create systems that respond to real-world challenges.
Course info
UCAS Code I200
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time followed by a further 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025 or September 2026
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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