Coursework – C Programming

A 2000-word individual report on problem-solving using C programming requiring the development and evaluation of programming solutions alongside reflection on personal skill development and professional practice, weighted at 50%, meeting Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 4. Assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes C1, C2, C3, C5, C18.

Group Report - Python Engineering Project

A 2500-word group report on a Python engineering project, with students contributing through project planning, coding, data analysis, and report writing, ensuring shared responsibility, weighted at 50%, meeting Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 3. Assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C16, C17.

Formative assessment will include a range of problem-solving tasks using C and Python.

This module delivers C and Python programming, combining theoretical coding with hands-on engineering projects to build practical skills.

The module will cover the following topics:
- C Language Fundamentals: Core syntax, variables, data types, operators, and input/output functions.
- Control structures: Sequential execution, conditional statements, and loop structures.
- Arrays, functions, pointers, and structures for data encapsulation.
- Python for Engineering: Basic syntax, variables, data types, string manipulation, and exception handling.
- Control flow: Conditional expressions, loop iterations, and list comprehensions.
- Library usage: Introduction to NumPy and Matplotlib for engineering tasks.
- Engineering Practice & Tools: Programming standards, Code readability, documentation (comments, docstrings), and version control basics (Git).
- Debugging techniques: Using IDE tools for breakpoint debugging and error analysis.
- Case studies: Analysis of engineering problems.
- Team collaboration: Group-based project management, task allocation, and peer code review.

1. Apply your knowledge of the core syntax of C and Python to analyse and model Electronic and Information Engineering problems. (AHEP 4: C1, C2)

Programme Learning Outcome: Application & problem-solving

2. Design and write structured Engineering programs in C and Python to solve typical problems in Electronic and Information Engineering, and optimise functionality through debugging, both individually and collaboratively. (AHEP 4: C3, C5)

Programme Learning Outcome: Critical reasoning & collaboration, Digital literacy

3. Communicate technical information and Engineering solutions effectively, drawing on research and literature review about programming-based applications. (AHEP 4: C4, C16, C17)

Programme Learning Outcome: Communication, Research skills

4. Recognise personal development needs and demonstrate initiative in developing programming and problem-solving skills relevant to Engineering industry practice. (AHEP 4: C18)

Programme Learning Outcome: Personal development and entrepreneurship

Whole group lectures will be used to deliver new material and to consolidate previous material. Small-group tutorials, with activities designed to enhance the understanding of the material delivered in the lectures, will be used to apply the skills and knowledge learned. A mixture of classroom based, and practical activities will take place supported by staff.

Suitable Compilers/IDE for C and Python programming, such as PyCharm, Jupyter Notebook etc.

Chapman, S.J. (2021) Programming for Engineers: An Introduction to C and Python. New York: McGraw-Hill Education.

Sudarshan, S.D. (2020) Engineering Applications with Python. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Blum, E.K. (2019) Introduction to Programming for Engineers. Harlow: Pearson.

This module introduces core programming skills in C and Python, tailored for electronic and information engineering students. It bridges theoretical coding with engineering applications through projects and simulations. The module will enable learners to build a foundation in programming logic and interdisciplinary problem-solving.