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Software 2: Object Oriented Data Structures & Algorithms - COM00016C

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  • Department: Computer Science
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Lilian Blot
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2021-22

Module summary

Object Oriented Data Structures and Algorithms

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Spring Term 2021-22 to Summer Term 2021-22

Module aims

Students begin to program key data structures such as stacks, queues, trees and graphs. They are introduced to the idea of complexity of an algorithm, and how to characterise time and space through formal notations and proof techniques. Students are taught using an object oriented language like Java, and learn the basics of test driven development for testing their code and demonstrating its successful running. Students are also introduced to several algorithm design paradigms such as greedy algorithms.

Module learning outcomes

S201

Implement an object oriented design. This includes organizing program code into modules using methods following the software engineering principles of modularity and abstraction, and assembling data and methods into classes at an introductory level following the software engineering principles of encapsulation and data hiding.

S202

Write and test code that conforms to specific interfaces. Identify and correct bugs which prevent the program from functioning as intended.

S203

Integrate standard library code with their own programs using appropriate software tools. Store and retrieve data from simple text files (sufficient to save and restore state for simple programs). understand and apply object serialization.

S204

Organize and document program code following the principles of software engineering. Generate documentation, manually and programmatically, to explain the design and implementation of their own code, or example code which is supplied to them.

S205

Analyze problems in order to confidently design algorithms to solve simple problems,and be able to explain how algorithms and Processing programs work. Develop small programs that implement basic algorithmic designs.

S206

Analyze worst-case running times of algorithms using asymptotic analysis and apply the knowledge to sorting and searching algorithms, categorising efficiency in time and memory use.

S207

Compare between different abstract data structures from linked lists to graphs in order to be able to choose an appropriate data structure for a design situation. This includes the major search, sort, and graph algorithms and their analyses.

S208

Apply algorithmic design paradigms such as greedy and dynamic programming paradigms. Present an argumentation for the choice of a paradigm for a given problem.

S209

Describe what an approximation algorithm is, the benefit of using approximation algorithms, and analyse the approximation factor for such an algorithm.

S210

Argue the correctness of algorithms using inductive proofs and invariants.

S211

Discuss the practice of code reuse and how it interacts with personal copyright, trademarks, license and intellectual property rights.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Software 2: Object Oriented Data Structures & Algorithms (SOF2 Lab)		 8 hours 50
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Software 2: Object Oriented Data Structures & Algorithms (SOF2 Theory)		 8 hours 50

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Software 2: Object Oriented Data Structures & Algorithms (SOF2 Lab)		 8 hours 50
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Software 2: Object Oriented Data Structures & Algorithms (SOF2 Theory)		 8 hours 50

Module feedback

Feedback is provided through work in practical sessions, formative assessments, and after the final assessment as per normal University guidelines.

Indicative reading

Steven S. Skiena - The algorithm design manual - 2nd ed., (2010), Springer

Michael T. Goodrich, Roberto Tamassia, Michael H. Goldwasser - Data Structures and Algorithms in Java (2014), Wiley Etextbooks

Mitsunori Ogihara - Fundamentals of Java programming (2018), Springer


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.