2025/26 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

COMP0101 Introduction to Computer Science

20 Credits Class Size: 30

Module manager: Dr Samson Fabiyi
Email: s.d.fabiyi@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2025/26

Module replaces

COMP0012 – Introduction to web technologies COMP0013 – Introduction to programming

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science essential for progressing to a Computer Science degree program. It covers a wide range of topics including computer systems and architecture; programming; data representation; and software development. Students will learn about network topologies; memory and storage types; logic circuits and programming paradigms. The module also includes practical skills in pseudocode, data structures, and database management using SQL. By the end of the module, students will have a solid understanding of computer science principles and be well-prepared for further studies in the field.

Objectives

The module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental computer science concepts and practical skills. It prepares students for a Computer Science degree program by covering key areas such as computer systems, networking technologies, programming, database management, and software development.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:

1. Explain the features, purpose, and benefits of communication and networking technologies.

2. Describe the various components of computer systems, including operating systems, language translators and assembly language.

3. Construct truth tables, logic circuits and expressions, and explain the functions of different logic gates.

4. Demonstrate the knowledge of pseudocode writing; functions; data types and structure; and in programming, and explain different programming paradigms

5. Apply computational thinking and the knowledge of programming design, testing and maintenance techniques and tools in software development

6. Describe and use data management, data integrity and data security principles and methods, explaining the need for data integrity and data security

Syllabus

Communication and internet technologies

Networks including the internet

Protocols

Circuit switching, packet switching

Hardware

Computers and their components

Logic Gates and Logic Circuits

Processor Fundamentals

Central Processing Unit (CPU) Architecture

Assembly Language

Bit manipulation

System Software

Operating Systems

Language Translators

Security, privacy and data integrity

Data Security

Data Integrity

Encryption, Encryption Protocols and Digital Certificates

Information representation

Data Representation

Databases

Database Concepts

Database Management Systems (DBMS)

Data Definition Language (DDL) and Data Manipulation Language (DML)

Algorithm Design and Problem-solving

Computational Thinking Skills

Algorithms

Data Types and Structures

Data Types and Records

Arrays

Files

Introduction to Abstract Data Types (ADT)

Programming

Programming Basics

Constructs

Structured Programming

Software Development

Program Development Life cycle

Program Design

Program Testing and Maintenance

Further Programming

Programming Paradigms

File Processing and Exception Handling

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 44 1 44
Practical 20 2 40
Private study hours 116
Total Contact hours 84
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Private study

116 hours.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Students will work on formative exercises that complement the lectures and prepare them for the coursework and exam. Students will have opportunities to receive feedback on the formative exercises during weekly lab sessions. Additionally, students will receive immediate feedback on in-class formative tasks conducted during lectures.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Assignment Coursework 30
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 30

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Exams
Exam type Exam duration % of formal assessment
Unseen Practical exam (Semester 2) 2.0 Hrs Mins 70
Total percentage (Assessment Exams) 70

In-person closed-book exam

Reading List

Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list

Last updated: 04/04/2025

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team