100% in course assessment.

Assignment weighted at 70%. (Learning outcomes 2, 3 and 4). In course assessment, 3000 words written computer systems architecture document for a business systems problem scenario.

A portfolio weighted at 30% (learning outcomes 1, 3 and 4). A variety of tasks will be undertaken which can be built up into an on-line portfolio. Short tests administered through Blackboard will be used where appropriate.

The module covers the basic knowledge of computer systems (individual and networked) regarded as a structured collection of hardware and software components which are engineered to provide the execution platform and environment for application programs.
In particular it will cover:
- representation and storage of data
- computer hardware and organisation, from logic gates to board level
- structure and function of fundamental systems software, e.g. operating systems and language processors, illustrated by reference to systems accessible to the student (e.g. UNIX, Windows, Java Virtual Machine)
- introduction to computer networks: data transmission, protocols (e.g. Ethernet, TCP/IP stack and Internet protocols), the Internet, local area networks, wide area networks
- network and software standards as appropriate
Illustrative material throughout the course will be drawn from machines and systems currently in use by students, e.g. appropriate systems programming languages, typical operating systems.

On-line materials will exemplify topical issues and best practice case studies.
The practical nature of the module is emphasised by the provision of practical portfolio tasks and an assignment which reflects all the elements of the module.
Appropriate software applications for computer systems will be used.
On-line, telephone and email support will be provided as necessary.
Within this module you will be introduced to and/or be able to develop your:
- Intellectual skills
- Problem solving
- Personal skills for Lifelong Learning

Access to the online library, journals and web-based resources.
Module website via Blackboard VLE
Access to Internet
Java Development Toolkit
Home PC running a modern operating system, with a suitable language platform for system programming and network access e.g. Java

Structured Computer Organisation (5th Edition), Andrew Tanenbaum, Pearson Education; 5 edition (27 Feb 2009), ISBN 0135094054

Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach (Internation edition), James F Kurose and A.Ross, Pearson Education; 5 edition (27 Mar 2009), ISBN 9780131365483

How Computers Work (9th Edition), Ron White and Timothy Downs, Publisher: Que, ISBN 0789736136, 2007

For other texts refer to module website.

1) DEVELOP A SYSTEMATIC UNDERSTANDING OF COMPONENTS AND WORKING OF A TYPICAL COMPUTER SYSTEM, INCLUDING THE RELATIONSHIP OF HARDWARE AND SYSTEM SOFTWARE. (Knowledge and Understanding, Learning).
2) PREPARE AND USE SYSTEMS PROGRAMMING IN AN APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE. (Analysis, Practical Artefact Development).
3) PREPARE AND USE SYSTEMS PROGRAMMING IN AN APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE. (Knowledge and Understanding).
4) UNDERSTAND AND CRITICALLY EVALUATE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTER NETWORKS. (Knowledge and Understanding).