Module Tutor Photo
School of Physical and Geographical Sciences  
 
 
ESC-40002 Programming Skills for Earth Scientists  
Co-ordinator: Dr Ian Stimpson    Room: WSF01, Tel:33182  
Teaching Team: Mr David  Emley, Mrs Stephanie  Everill, Mrs Emma  Harvey, Mrs Karen  Babb, Ms Clare  Sillitto  
Lecture Time: See Timetable...  
Level: 4 Credits: 15 Study Hours: 150  
School Office:
 
 
 
Programme/Approved Electives for

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for this module.

Barred Combinations

None

Description

This module covers computer programming concepts using the the object-oriented programming paradigm and the industry-standard Java programming language. The course follows a 'workshop' format with concepts introduced and then practised immediately in order to allow as much 'hands-on' computer programming experience as possible. The course covers object-orientated programming in Java, the design and implementation of Java applications and applets, Graphical User Interface design and implementation, graphics-orientated Java programming and programme documentation. Programming exercises cover the development of small routines that illustrate the use of the main aspects of Java programming and culminate with the development of an independent graphical Java application.

Aims

To give a high level of programming expertise to Earth Scientists
To provide Earth Science graduates with the computing vocabulary, skills, knowledge and technical expertise either to enter industrial careers as Computing Earth Scientists or to continue on to Ph.D. degrees requiring computing experience.
To develop critical, analytical and problem based learning skills.
To provide students familiarity with geological computing software applications.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Define, analyse, design, implement and document graphically-oriented Java computer programmes for earth science applications. 1
Describe and critically assess the object-oriented programming paradigm and techniques in graphically-orientated Java programming and documentation. 2
Demonstrate problem solving in the design and implementation of computer algorithms and programmes. 2
Demonstrate the technical expertise, skills and vocabulary required to enter a career as a earth science computer programmer. 1,2

Study hours

8 4-hours workshop
2 4-hours formal practical work
78 assignment work
30 hours private study
2 hours unseen examination

Description of Module Assessment

1: Computer Task weighted 50%
PROGRAMMING PROJECTS, INCLUDING DOCUMENTATION
A series of computer programmes written as part of workshop exercises and a independent computer programme with on-line documentation.

2: 2 Hour Unseen Exam weighted 50%
UNSEEN EXAM - 2 HOURS
Four essay style answers required from a choice of six questions.


Version: (1.06B) Updated: 03/Mar/2013

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.