STW120CT: Computer Architecture and Networks

Module size Single

Assessment / CATS Credits 20
ECTS Credits 10
Total student study hours 200
Pre-requisites and co-requisites None
Excluded Combinations None

Aims and Summary

This Module will provide students with a broad overview of computer architecture, such that
they will be able to explain the origin, structure and use of fundamental components of a
computer. Students will be guided in investigating operating systems from a historical
perspective, reviewing the development of the operating system over time as computers
became more complex and diverse. This will lead them into exploring practical and theoretical
aspects of computer hardware and software as well as fundamental concepts of networking
and the internet.

Intended Module Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the development of the computer and its major components.
2. Explain the main components of a computer, and the function and operation of each.

3. Demonstrate a basic understanding of Processor Pipelines and Instruction Level Parallelism.

4. Describe the purpose and basic features of an operating system and its role within a variety of computing
systems and with a variety of input-output techniques, peripherals and storage devices.

5. Demonstrate an understanding of network protocols and hardware, networked operating systems and
cloud computing.

Indicative Content

Fundamentals of computer architecture.

Hardware, Processors, Storage, Drives, Virtual Memory, Number systems, Assembly
language Overview.

Operating systems:
History, Classes of operating system, Real-time, Multi and single user, Multi-tasking,
Distributed, Cloud based, and Embedded Operating Systems.

Computer Networking:
OSI Model, TCP/IP Model, Protocols, Hardware, Ports, Interrupts, Internet history, design
and protocols, mobile computing and smartphones.

Special Features

Part of the Coursework Assessment consists is an Activity Led Learning project

carried out in course groups. Students are set a project related to their chosen course
which requires skills and knowledge presented in both this and other modules studied
in the semester

Teaching and Learning

 Learning will be facilitated through a variety of methods which may include lectures, lab, online
activities and group work.

Students are expected to engage in both class and online activities and discussions. This module also
requires students to participate in additional guided reading and self-directed study to reinforce the
learning gained from timetabled sessions. Formative assessment will be used to prepare students for
summative assessment and give students an early indication of their progress towards the course
intended learning outcomes.

Method of Delivery

Note that the hours below may include a contribution to Activity Led Learning projects.

Activity Type Hour

s
Laboratory 44
Lecture 22
Practice
Self guided 134
Seminar
Studio
Tutorial
Workshop
Project Supervision
Demonstration
Fieldwork
External Visits
Work Based
Learning
Placement
Year Abroad
Guided
Other
Total 200

Method of Assessment (normally assessed as follows)

Learning Outcomes
Assessment Weight 1 2 3 4 5
Coursework 1 - 35 minute Phase Test 1 10% ü ü
Coursework 1 - 35 minute Phase Test 2 15% ü ü ü
Coursework 2 –Group Project 25% ü ü ü ü ü
2 hour Exam 50% ü ü ü ü ü

Re-assessment is by new coursework and/or examination.

Assessment
Composition of module mark: 50% Coursework and 50% Exam
Pass requirements: Module Mark must be at least 40%

Essential Reading

Stallings, W. (2003) Computer Organization and Architecture: Designing for Performance. Pearson
Education India

Recommended Reading

Patterson, D.A. and Hennessy, J.L. (2013) Computer Organization and Design Mips Edition: The
Hardware/Software Interface. Newnes

Harris, D. and Harris, S. (2010) Digital Design and Computer Architecture. Morgan Kaufmann

Required Equipment

None