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Introduction to Computer Programming

Unit Description

This is an introductory computer science unit that provides a practical introduction to basic computing and programming concepts. Students gain an understanding of and practical experience in computer programming; practical experience in implementing informal prose descriptions of problem solutions using an imperative language; an understanding of and practical experience in designing, coding, testing, and debugging simple algorithms; and an understanding of the principle of incremental development.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

• Apply problem-solving skills to develop algorithms that solve small to medium-sized computational problems.
• Design and write code to implement a program description in an imperative programming language.
• Use standard software engineering practices to document, debug, and test their programs.
• Understand and apply appropriately the concepts of variables, loops, functions, conditionals, and compound data in the implementation of programmed systems.
• Identify and describe ethical issues in an academic environment and demonstrate active engagement in the learning process.
• Communicate disciplinary knowledge using appropriate academic discourses.

Assessment Tasks

The following assessment tasks are included in this unit:

• Programming Skills Exercise (25%): Students will implement a portion of programs and attempt programming tasks in class, applying core concepts such as variables, conditions, and loops.
• Practical Exam (45%): Students will take an in-class assessment, applying problem-solving skills to develop algorithms, write code, and debug programs.
• Project Presentation (30%): Students will work on a programming project throughout the term and present it in class.

Delivery and Resources

• Term Dates & Calendar: Details of key dates during the term can be found on the Important Dates calendar.
• Enrolment and Timetables: General enrolment and timetable information is available via the Macquarie University College enrolment dates and instructions page.
• Technology Used and Required: Access to the internet, AppStream, iLearn, and the Waranara Library catalogue (MultiSearch) are required.
• Using Your Own Device: Macquarie University students are entitled to free access to the Microsoft Office Suite, which can be accessed through the university's website.

Unit Schedule

The unit comprises six modules:

1. Foundations of Programming (FP)
2. Variables and Conditionals (VC)
3. Loops (L)
4. Functions (F)
5. Compound Data (CD)
6. Program Design and Problem Solving (PDPS)

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular:

• Academic Appeals Policy
• Academic Integrity Policy
• Academic Progression Policy
• Assessment Policy
• Fitness to Practice Procedure
• Assessment Procedure
• Complaints Resolution Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
• Special Consideration Policy

Academic Integrity

At Macquarie, academic integrity honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness, and courage is at the core of learning, teaching, and research. Using the work or ideas of another person, whether intentionally or not, and presenting them as your own without clear acknowledgement of the source is called plagiarism.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students, including:

• Academic Success: Resources to develop English language proficiency, academic writing, and communication skills.
• Library: Online and face-to-face support to help find and use relevant information resources.
• Student Services and Support: IT support, accessibility and disability support, mental health support, safety support, and social support.

Unit Contact Hours

Weekly contact for this unit will be 10 hours (60 hours per term), with 5 x 2-hour lessons per week, including theory and practical components.

Unit Specific Texts and Materials

The prescribed text for this unit is:

• Daniel Shiffman, Morgan Kaufmann, Learning Processing: A Beginner's Guide to Programming Images, Animation, and Interaction, 2nd Edition, 2015, ISBN-10: ISBN-13: Other recommended resources include:
• The website Software Technology (provides teaching material, including examples, videos, and exercises)
• The website (provides supplementary material, including tutorials and examples on Processing)