Unit 1: Programming


Unit code: D/615/1618

Unit type: Core

Unit level: QCF Level 4/ NFQ Level 6

Credit value: 15


Introduction  

Programming  involves  describing processes and procedures which are derived from algorithms. The ability to program  is what sets apart a developer and an end user. Typically the role  of the developer  is to instruct a device (such as a computer)  to carry out instructions;  the instructions are known as source code and is written in a language that is  converted into something  the device can understand.  The device executes the instructions  it is given.

This unit introduces  students to the core concepts of programming with an introduction to algorithms  and the characteristics of programming paradigms. Among   the  topics  included  in  this  unit  are:  introduction  to  algorithms,  procedural,  object-orientated & event-driven programming, security considerations, the integrated  development  environment  and  the  debugging  process. 

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to design and implement  algorithms  in  a chosen language  within  a suitable Integrated Development Environment   (IDE).  This  IDE  will  be  used  to  develop and help track any issues with the code.

As a result they will  develop  skills  such as communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning  and  interpretation  which  are  crucial  for  gaining  employment  and  developing academic competence.

 

Learning Outcome

By the end of this unit students will be able to:

LO1. Define basic algorithms to carry out an operation and outline the process ofprogramming an application.

LO2. Explain the characteristics of procedural, object-orientated and event-driven programming, conduct an analysis of a suitable Integrated Development

Environment (IDE).

LO3. Implement basic algorithms in code using an IDE.

LO4. Determine the debugging process and explain the importance of a coding standard