PE7070 - Object Oriented Programming

What will I learn on this module?

This module is designed to develop your knowledge; understanding and skills in object oriented programming and program design concepts, using an object first approach. Specifically, you will learn how to design, implement, test and document programs and will gain practical programming experience by solving small scale problems. In addition, you will cover the need for standards and the principles of quality. In particular, the syllabus of the module will cover topics such as:

• Programming: simple data types and calculations; classes, objects, inheritance, interfaces, polymorphism; methods, constructors; parameter passing; arrays and strings; simple collection classes; statements for selection and iteration; exception handling; file and stream handling; APIs
• GUI programming : event driven programming, GUI components
• Tools: use of a compiler and associated Integrated Development Environment (IDE). Documentation tools.
• Program testing: purpose of testing, black box and white box testing. Use of tool support.

Since the module is intended for graduates from disciplines other than Computing, no previous programming experience is assumed.

How will I learn on this module?

Each module session follows a similar structure of Learn, Explore Further and Apply. All learning materials and resources are accessible via our virtual learning environment. Indeed, through the e-learning portal you will be provided with resources in the form of scanned articles, links of books/articles/journals, PowerPoint lectures, word document, video lectures etc. relevant to your module. You will be given an online reading list, but will also be required to create your individual reading resource as well. You will be using a discussion board to share your work and create a knowledge base for your peers. You will be also using Wiki (a learning tool on e-learning portal) to form focus groups on module submission and assessment criteria.

A range of approaches will be used to aid your learning. You will be introduced to the main elements and principles of programming in the object oriented paradigm subject via recorded lectures. They will be reinforced and developed through on-line practical workshop classes, where you will develop skills in applying relevant principles and knowledge. You will be provided with guided reading tasks that you are expected to do as independent learning to help extend your background knowledge.
You will also conduct independent study, as it forms an important element of the module. Independent learning will centre upon identification and pursuit of areas of interest, by providing deeper/broader knowledge and understanding of the subject through a range of learning activities that might include extended reading, reflection, research etc.
You will access virtual classrooms (available on the e-learning portal) for live discussions and virtual taught sessions, which will be recorded and stored on the e-learning portal. These online sessions are timetabled at key points in your module and will deliver relevant knowledge, information and direction for you to fulfil the learning outcomes.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

A range of approaches are adopted to accelerate your learning in this module.

During the first week of this module, you will receive information about the module and Teaching & Learning Plan. The teaching and learning plan (TLP) sets out
• Learning outcomes and overall module and programme aims
• Teaching, learning and assessment strategy
• Teaching schedule
• Directed reading references (text and journals) and core texts for the module

During this module your module tutor will provide academic support including:
• Delivering on—line materials
• Providing guidance in relation to assignments
• Development of key resources, made available through the VLE
• Assessing assignments and assess or review any other agreed summative or formative outputs as appropriate

You will also have opportunities to receive formative feedback from your tutor in response to opinions you express and issues you raise during workshop sessions and face-to-face or online tutorials. These formative feedback sessions are formally scheduled at key points throughout the module.

Where appropriate, students may also be directed to engage with Study Skills +, or other resources offered through the University Student Support Services such as Dyslexia Support.

The Library is open 24 hours a day and E-Learning Portal houses all your module documents including your timetable. These services can be accessed on a range of devices

The module will also have an e-reading list which directs learners to specific reading for each session. This includes direct access to repositories, journal articles and other academic sources. You will also be provided with access to a significant set academic research sources via the Northumbria University library portal.

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:
1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the principles, knowledge and skills required to design, implement, test and document programs written in an object oriented language
2. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the essential principles and practices relating to object oriented programming, including the need for standards, principles of quality, and appropriate software support
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Critically evaluate the methods and conceptual tools used in developing solutions to programming problems.
4. Analyse, specify, design, implement and test a high-level solution to a programming problem using object oriented and general imperative programming language constructs, using appropriate documentation standards and software tools.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Effectively communicate development of a solution to a programming problem, including critical evaluation

How will I be assessed?

A single 3000 word assessment (plus codes) will involve analysing, specifying, designing, implementing, testing and documenting a solution to a programming problem using object oriented methods. This will include a critical evaluation of appropriate methods and tools.

The assignment will provide you with an opportunity to apply a broad range of programming features and to demonstrate both your mastery of the subject and the level of your independent learning. It assesses all of the MLOs for the module. You will be provided with written feedback on the assignment.

Formative assessment will take the form of practical workshop activities designed to help you and your tutors assess your understanding and progress. You will be provided with verbal feedback on your work

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module is designed to develop your knowledge; understanding and skills in object oriented programming and program design concepts, using an object first approach. Specifically, you will learn how to design, implement, test and document programs and will gain practical programming experience by solving small scale problems. In addition, you will cover the need for standards and the principles of quality.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 2 years Distance Learning

Department Computer and Information Sciences

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start Upcoming Intakes: July 2024, October 2024

Fee Information

Module Information

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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