Introduction to Software Development
Aims
The main aim of this module is to allow students who hold a first degree in a subject other than computing to gain understanding of solving computational problems and of the software development process, which are fundamental to the study of information systems and informatics. The module covers the principles of designing, implementing and testing programs, with a specific focus on object-oriented design. The module explains the fundamental aspects of these techniques utilising a series of practical lab sessions. Students will be able to apply this knowledge in learning new programming languages, developing software systems, and managing software development projects within given time constraints.
Syllabus
- The software development process.
- Principles of programming and programming languages
- Solving computational problems (problem decomposition, abstraction, sequencing, branching, iteration).
- Classes, objects, variables, values, types, arithmetic operations, control expressions, methods, string manipulation, exceptions, arrays, collections, I/O, GUIs, documentation.
- Designing, implementing and testing programs.
Assessment
- 50% exam
- 50% coursework
Recommended Reading
- Python for Everyone by Cay S. Horstmann and Rance D. Necaise, John Wiley & Sons; 2014, ISBN: 978-1-118-73522-0 (Course text)
- Practical Programming: An Introduction to Computer Science Using Python 3 by Paul Gries, Jennifer Campbell, and Jason Montojo, Pragmatic Bookshelf; 2013, ISBN: 978-1937785451
- Python Programming for Beginners by Jason Cannon, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 2014, ISBN: 978-1501000867
- Python for Kids: A Playful Introduction to Programming by Jason R. Briggs, No Starch Press; 2012, ISBN: 978-1593274078
- Think Python by Allen B.
Downey, O'Reilly Media; 2012, ISBN: 978-1449330729
- Learning Python by Mark Lutz, O'Reilly Media; 2013, ISBN: 978-1449355739
The course text can be found at:
http://eu.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-EHEP002658.html
We recommend the e-book version
WEEKS 1 + 2
Topics
- Introduction to the module
- Introduction to computing
- Introductory Python including the software setup
- Our first programs
just in case the instructions at python.org aren't that clear to you…
Includes a video showing how to use command line
version of Python and also IDLE.
Pre-reading for the first class File 815.3KB
PDF document
If you have time please read Chapter One of "Think Python - How to Think Like a Computer Scientist" by Allen Downey, as preparation for our first meeting.
WEEK 3 + 4