Smart Systems
School of Computing and Mathematics
Faculty of Natural Sciences
Last Updated 20 September 2013

Principal Course Timetable Blocks 1


Smart Systems Dual Honours - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CSC-10024 Programming I - Programming Fundamentals C C 7.5 15
This module introduces the fundamental concepts underlying computer programming together with techniques for applying these using a contemporary programming language. The module will have a strong practical element. This module will develop the following graduate attributes (numbered as in the DKC web pages): 1. an open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity, independence of thought and the ability to appreciate a range of perspectives on the natural and social worlds 2. an appreciation of the development and value of your chosen subjects of study, awareness of their contexts, the links between them, and awareness of the provisional and dynamic nature of knowledge 4. the ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques, and to determine which techniques are appropriate for the issue at hand 7. the knowledge, skills, self-confidence and self-awareness actively to pursue your future goals 10. the flexibility to thrive in rapidly changing and uncertain external environments and to update skills and knowledge as circumstances require.
CSC-10029 Fundamentals of Computing C M 7.5 15
This module will provide students with an overview of the core concepts of the discipline, and act as a foundation for other modules covering these topics in more detail. It will enable students to understand the links between individual modules on their course, and to understand them properly in context.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CSC-10030 Programming II - Data Structures and Algorithms C M 7.5 15
In this course students learn about the important properties of some data structures and algorithms that are of foundational importance to modern computer science and IT. As they do so, there is ample opportunity to develop and practice their general purpose computer programming skills so that in the future they are able to develop their own software solutions to straightforward problems. The module develops the following Keele Graduate attributes: 1. an open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity and independence of thought 4. the ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques; 6. the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written forms; 7. The knowledge, skills, self-confidence and self-awareness actively to pursue your future goals; 9. develop a professional and reflective approach; 10. the flexibility to thrive in uncertain environments and to update skills and knowledge as circumstances require.
~ CSC-10032 Information Systems and Interaction C M 7.5 15
This module provides students with an introduction to Information Systems and an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge and understanding they gain to a practical task. It also explores the human-computer interface and introduces concepts, techniques and tools that support the analysis of needs for, and design of, system interfaces. The main focus will be on web interfaces. The module develops the following Keele Graduate attributes: 1. An open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity, independence of thought and the ability to appreciate a range of perspectives on the natural and social worlds. 2. An appreciation of the development and value of your chosen subjects of study, awareness of their contexts, the links between them, and awareness of the provisional and dynamic nature of knowledge. 4. The ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques, and to determine which techniques are appropriate for the issue at hand. 5. An appreciation of the social, environmental and global implications of your studies and other activities, including recognition of any ethical implications. 6. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and verbal forms for different purposes and to a variety of audiences.

Smart Systems Dual Honours - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CSC-20020 Requirements, Evaluation and Professionalism C M 7.5 15
This module will develop skills in the design and execution of empirical studies to gather evidence about software systems, methods and processes. It will also cover requirements engineering and will enable students to recognize the professional, economic, social, environmental and ethical issues involved in the development and use of computer technologies.
~ CSC-20023 Computational Intelligence I C M 7.5 15
This module will provide students with an introduction to the core computational intelligence topics of evolutionary algorithms and neural networks, their use in vision systems and robotics, and some of the similarities and differences between natural and synthetic intelligent systems.
CSC-20033 Smart Systems - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CSC-20034 Smart Systems - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CSC-20004 Advanced Programming Practices O M 7.5 15
This module provides an understanding of object-oriented programming and its concepts, with particular emphasis on advanced features of Java and their applications.
~ CSC-20004 Advanced Programming Practices EP M 7.5 15
This module provides an understanding of object-oriented programming and its concepts, with particular emphasis on advanced features of Java and their applications.
~ CSC-20022 System Lifecycles and Design C C 7.5 15
This module will provide students with knowledge of the techniques and processes to undertake the design of a system once the requirements and analysis activities have been completed.
~ CSC-20024 Virtual Worlds O C 7.5 15
This module introduces students to three dimensional computer modelling, animation and programming and their use within the creative digital sector of the economy.
~ CSC-20024 Virtual Worlds EP C 7.5 15
This module introduces students to three dimensional computer modelling, animation and programming and their use within the creative digital sector of the economy.
CSC-20035 Smart Systems - Study Abroad III EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CSC-20036 Smart Systems - Study Abroad IV EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.

Smart Systems Dual Honours - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CSC-30016 Software Engineering Project Management O M 7.5 15
Technical expertise allows students to understand problem situations and undertake developments in these technical areas, however to actually deliver a solution requires effective management of the software engineering activities. At the early stages of a project there is little basis for the estimation of time, budget and risk or for the creation of feasible plans to complete the project. During the running of project the need to assess progress becomes important so that we can ensure the project reaches its goals. This already difficult situation is made worse by the changes to software engineering methods and process that occur and which our software engineering project management has to adjust to. This module provides students with the basis for undertaking software engineering project management and an awareness of leading edge topics in software engineering that our management needs to encompass.
~ CSC-30016 Software Engineering Project Management EP M 7.5 15
Technical expertise allows students to understand problem situations and undertake developments in these technical areas, however to actually deliver a solution requires effective management of the software engineering activities. At the early stages of a project there is little basis for the estimation of time, budget and risk or for the creation of feasible plans to complete the project. During the running of project the need to assess progress becomes important so that we can ensure the project reaches its goals. This already difficult situation is made worse by the changes to software engineering methods and process that occur and which our software engineering project management has to adjust to. This module provides students with the basis for undertaking software engineering project management and an awareness of leading edge topics in software engineering that our management needs to encompass.
~ CSC-30019 Games Computing O M 7.5 15
This module delivers comprehensive knowledge of 3D games development and the theory and practice of computer game design, and explores the human factors involved in game design and interactive media environments. Students are taught to write computer game programs using a physics engine and a 3D graphics rendering engine. The module includes an introduction to C++, as the primary programming language used in the industry with these engines.
~ CSC-30019 Games Computing EP M 7.5 15
This module delivers comprehensive knowledge of 3D games development and the theory and practice of computer game design, and explores the human factors involved in game design and interactive media environments. Students are taught to write computer game programs using a physics engine and a 3D graphics rendering engine. The module includes an introduction to C++, as the primary programming language used in the industry with these engines.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CSC-30014 Third Year Double Project - ISP C C 15 30
This module enables students to integrate and apply theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills to a relatively large or complex programming, research or business problem within the discipline.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CSC-30012 Communications and Networks O M 7.5 15
This module extends students’ knowledge of principles and practice in communications, computer network and security technologies and their deployment. Specifically it develops the following Keele Graduate attributes: 1. An open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity, independence of thought and the ability to appreciate a range of perspectives on the natural and social worlds. 2. An appreciation of the development and value of the chosen subjects of study, awareness of their contexts, the links between them, and awareness of the provisional and dynamic nature of knowledge. 3. Information literacy: the ability to locate, evaluate and synthesise large amounts of frequently conflicting information, ideas and data. 4. The ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques, and to determine which techniques are appropriate for the issue at hand. 5. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and verbal forms for different purposes and to a variety of audiences. 7. The knowledge, skills, self-confidence and self-awareness actively to pursue your future goals. 8. The flexibility to thrive in rapidly changing and uncertain external environments and to update skills and knowledge as circumstances require.
CSC-30012 Communications and Networks EP M 7.5 15
This module extends students’ knowledge of principles and practice in communications, computer network and security technologies and their deployment. Specifically it develops the following Keele Graduate attributes: 1. An open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity, independence of thought and the ability to appreciate a range of perspectives on the natural and social worlds. 2. An appreciation of the development and value of the chosen subjects of study, awareness of their contexts, the links between them, and awareness of the provisional and dynamic nature of knowledge. 3. Information literacy: the ability to locate, evaluate and synthesise large amounts of frequently conflicting information, ideas and data. 4. The ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques, and to determine which techniques are appropriate for the issue at hand. 5. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and verbal forms for different purposes and to a variety of audiences. 7. The knowledge, skills, self-confidence and self-awareness actively to pursue your future goals. 8. The flexibility to thrive in rapidly changing and uncertain external environments and to update skills and knowledge as circumstances require.
~ CSC-30018 IT Architectures O M 7.5 15
This module delivers the concepts, methods and tools involved in the IT architecture discipline, and examines the role of IT architects and software architecture within development projects. The module also outlines current architectural developments, such as service-oriented architectures. Students gain practical experience by undertaking a case study.
~ CSC-30018 IT Architectures EP M 7.5 15
This module delivers the concepts, methods and tools involved in the IT architecture discipline, and examines the role of IT architects and software architecture within development projects. The module also outlines current architectural developments, such as service-oriented architectures. Students gain practical experience by undertaking a case study.
~ CSC-30020 Computational Intelligence II C M 7.5 15
This module will expand on the range of computational intelligence (CI) themes introduced earlier in the degree. Importantly, the module will allow students to explore in greater depth, selected research-led topics at the forefront of current thinking in the rapidly evolving CI field. Upon completion of this module good students will be well placed to pursue further research in industry or in education (e.g. as an MSc or PhD student).

Smart Systems Minor - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
CSC-10024 Programming I - Programming Fundamentals C C 7.5 15
This module introduces the fundamental concepts underlying computer programming together with techniques for applying these using a contemporary programming language. The module will have a strong practical element. This module will develop the following graduate attributes (numbered as in the DKC web pages): 1. an open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity, independence of thought and the ability to appreciate a range of perspectives on the natural and social worlds 2. an appreciation of the development and value of your chosen subjects of study, awareness of their contexts, the links between them, and awareness of the provisional and dynamic nature of knowledge 4. the ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques, and to determine which techniques are appropriate for the issue at hand 7. the knowledge, skills, self-confidence and self-awareness actively to pursue your future goals 10. the flexibility to thrive in rapidly changing and uncertain external environments and to update skills and knowledge as circumstances require.
CSC-10029 Fundamentals of Computing C M 7.5 15
This module will provide students with an overview of the core concepts of the discipline, and act as a foundation for other modules covering these topics in more detail. It will enable students to understand the links between individual modules on their course, and to understand them properly in context.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CSC-10030 Programming II - Data Structures and Algorithms C M 7.5 15
In this course students learn about the important properties of some data structures and algorithms that are of foundational importance to modern computer science and IT. As they do so, there is ample opportunity to develop and practice their general purpose computer programming skills so that in the future they are able to develop their own software solutions to straightforward problems. The module develops the following Keele Graduate attributes: 1. an open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity and independence of thought 4. the ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques; 6. the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written forms; 7. The knowledge, skills, self-confidence and self-awareness actively to pursue your future goals; 9. develop a professional and reflective approach; 10. the flexibility to thrive in uncertain environments and to update skills and knowledge as circumstances require.
~ CSC-10032 Information Systems and Interaction C M 7.5 15
This module provides students with an introduction to Information Systems and an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge and understanding they gain to a practical task. It also explores the human-computer interface and introduces concepts, techniques and tools that support the analysis of needs for, and design of, system interfaces. The main focus will be on web interfaces. The module develops the following Keele Graduate attributes: 1. An open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity, independence of thought and the ability to appreciate a range of perspectives on the natural and social worlds. 2. An appreciation of the development and value of your chosen subjects of study, awareness of their contexts, the links between them, and awareness of the provisional and dynamic nature of knowledge. 4. The ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques, and to determine which techniques are appropriate for the issue at hand. 5. An appreciation of the social, environmental and global implications of your studies and other activities, including recognition of any ethical implications. 6. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and verbal forms for different purposes and to a variety of audiences.

Smart Systems Minor - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CSC-20020 Requirements, Evaluation and Professionalism C M 7.5 15
This module will develop skills in the design and execution of empirical studies to gather evidence about software systems, methods and processes. It will also cover requirements engineering and will enable students to recognize the professional, economic, social, environmental and ethical issues involved in the development and use of computer technologies.
~ CSC-20023 Computational Intelligence I C M 7.5 15
This module will provide students with an introduction to the core computational intelligence topics of evolutionary algorithms and neural networks, their use in vision systems and robotics, and some of the similarities and differences between natural and synthetic intelligent systems.
CSC-20033 Smart Systems - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CSC-20034 Smart Systems - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CSC-20004 Advanced Programming Practices O M 7.5 15
This module provides an understanding of object-oriented programming and its concepts, with particular emphasis on advanced features of Java and their applications.
~ CSC-20004 Advanced Programming Practices EP M 7.5 15
This module provides an understanding of object-oriented programming and its concepts, with particular emphasis on advanced features of Java and their applications.
~ CSC-20022 System Lifecycles and Design C C 7.5 15
This module will provide students with knowledge of the techniques and processes to undertake the design of a system once the requirements and analysis activities have been completed.
~ CSC-20024 Virtual Worlds O C 7.5 15
This module introduces students to three dimensional computer modelling, animation and programming and their use within the creative digital sector of the economy.
~ CSC-20024 Virtual Worlds EP C 7.5 15
This module introduces students to three dimensional computer modelling, animation and programming and their use within the creative digital sector of the economy.
CSC-20035 Smart Systems - Study Abroad III EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
CSC-20036 Smart Systems - Study Abroad IV EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.

Smart Systems Minor - Level 3 Modules

Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ CSC-30020 Computational Intelligence II EP M 7.5 15
This module will expand on the range of computational intelligence (CI) themes introduced earlier in the degree. Importantly, the module will allow students to explore in greater depth, selected research-led topics at the forefront of current thinking in the rapidly evolving CI field. Upon completion of this module good students will be well placed to pursue further research in industry or in education (e.g. as an MSc or PhD student).
C Compulsory Core Module
O Optional Core Module
EP Programme Elective Module
EA Approved Elective Module
EF Free-Standing Elective Module
M Mixed Assessment e.g. a mixture of essay(s) and examination, with the latter's weighting below 90%.
E Examination, providing 90% or more of the mark.
C Continuous Assessment e.g. essay(s) or practical work (as appropriate).
+ Available to qualified non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students but there may be a restriction on the number of places available
~ Specific pre-requisite(s) needed by non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students wishing to take these modules
# Not normally available to Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students (except by prior negotiation with Departmental Tutor)
Note: Modules not marked with a # are available to suitably qualified Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students.