Module Code: H6PSPC
Long Title Problem Solving & Programming Concepts
Title Problem Solving & Programming Concepts
Module Level: LEVEL 6
EQF Level: 5
EHEA Level: Short Cycle
Credits: 5
Module Coordinator: FRANCES SHERIDAN
Module Author: FRANCES SHERIDAN
Departments: School of Computing
Specifications of the qualifications and experience required of staff


Master’s degree in computing or cognate discipline.

 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Solve a range of classic puzzles.
LO2 Develop problem solving capabilities.
LO3 Express algorithmic solutions to defined problems using accepted documentation methods.
LO4 Use the basic constructs of programming when solving well- defined problems.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is required before enrolment on this module. While the prior learning is expressed as named NCI module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Entry requirements

See section 4.2 Entry procedures and criteria for the programme including procedures recognition of prior learning
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
Strategies for Problem Solving
Types of problems.. Using computers to solve problems.. Steps in analysing a problem and designing an appropriate solution. . Classic Puzzles e.g. Crossing a River, The Tower of Hanoi.
Algorithmic Problem Solving
Understanding the purpose of an algorithm.. Identifying standard documentation techniques such as flowcharts or pseudocode.
Algorithmic Problem Solving
Identifying standard documentation techniques such as flowcharts or pseudocode.
Beginning Problem Solving Concepts for the Computer
An introduction to programming structure. . Constants & variables
Beginning Problem Solving Concepts for the Computer
Data types. . How the computer stores data.
Beginning Problem Solving Concepts for the Computer
Functions, Operators, Expressions & Equations.
Problem Solving & Control Statements
Understanding when to use a control statement.
Problem Solving & Control Statements
Problem solving with Decision.
Problem Solving & Control Statements
Problem solving with Case Logic Structure.
Problem Solving & Control Statements
Problem solving with Loops.
Evaluating Algorithmic Solutions
Apply test plans to algorithmic solutions.
Evaluating Algorithmic Solutions
Understanding algorithm efficiency.
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Full Time

Coursework
Assessment Type: Other % of total: Non-Marked
Assessment Date: n/a Outcome addressed: 1,2
Non-Marked: Yes
Assessment Description:
Ongoing independent and group problem solving activities and feedback
Assessment Type: Project % of total: 40
Assessment Date: n/a Outcome addressed: 2,3
Non-Marked: No
Assessment Description:
Team project requiring learners to apply problem solving skills to the resolution of a real life problem. The problem should be documented using widely accepted methods such as flow-charts, pseudocode etc.
Assessment Type: Project % of total: 40
Assessment Date: n/a Outcome addressed: 2,3,4
Non-Marked: No
Assessment Description:
Individual project requiring the learner to document and solve a programming problem using a syntax-free programming language such as Snap.
Assessment Type: Continuous Assessment % of total: 20
Assessment Date: n/a Outcome addressed: 1,2,3,4
Non-Marked: No
Assessment Description:
Short weekly quizzes spanning the semester assessing learners knowledge and understanding of new topics addressed that week.
No End of Module Assessment
No Workplace Assessment
Reassessment Requirement
Repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.
Reassessment Description
Learners who fail this module will be required to sit a repeat module assessment where all learning outcomes will be examined.

NCIRL reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Module Target Workload Hours 0 Hours
Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Description Hours Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture Classroom & Demonstrations (hours) 24 Per Semester 2.00
Tutorial Other hours (Practical/Tutorial) 12 Per Semester 1.00
Independent Learning Independent learning (hours) 89 Per Semester 7.42
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
 

Module Resources

Recommended Book Resources
  • Savitch, W. & Mock, K.. (2012), Java: An Introduction to Problem Solving and Programming (7th ed), Addison-Wesley, New Jersey.
  • Backhouse, R.. (2011), Algorithmic Problem Solving, Wiley.
  • Sprankle, M. & Hubbard, J.. (2011), Problem Solving & Programming Concepts (9th ed), Pearson Education.
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
Discussion Note: