Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should understand basic hardware and system software concepts; operate a range of computer systems effectively; be able to explain how data is represented and manipulated in computers; have an understanding of Boolean algebra and propositional logic.
Synopsis Binary, decimal, and hexadecimal representations; the ASCII and EBCDIC codes; truth tables and Boolean algebra; the CPU, memory, and peripheral devices; role of the operating system; multiprogramming, timesharing, and multiprocessing; machine language, assembly language, and third and fourth-generation languages; compilers and interpreters; DOS structure, DOS commands; UNIX structure, C shell commands; file organisation and storage; data communications protocols and networks; applications and the role of computer technology today. Access to the university's computer systems via modem is compulsory for distance education students.
Assessment Written (2000 words): 20% +Examination (3 hours): 60% + Other assessment modes: 20%