Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Programming Fundamentals for Scientists
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
COSC2676 |
City Campus |
Undergraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2018, Sem 2 2019, Sem 1 2020, Sem 2 2020, Sem 1 2021 |
COSC2676 |
City Campus |
Undergraduate |
175H Computing Technologies |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2023, Sem 1 2024, Sem 1 2025 |
Course Coordinator: Ziqi Xu
Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925
Course Coordinator Email: ziqi.xu@rmit.edu.au
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
Assumed Knowledge:
Capable of using the basic functions of an operating system such as Windows / Mac OS X / Linux / UNIX.
Course Description
Programming is acknowledged as a vital skill that enables problem solving through the use of computers across a range of varied disciplines. This course introduces you to basic concepts, syntax and control structures in programming. You will learn how to program in a step-wise problem solving fashion.
You are expected to bring a laptop to the lectorials and practicals of this hands-on course.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
Program Learning Outcomes
This course contributes to the program learning outcomes for the following program(s):
BH101PH - Bachelor of Science (Dean's Scholar, Physics) (Honours)
BP330 Bachelor of Space Science
PLO-1.1 Understanding science and engineering - You will demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method and engineering fundamentals and an ability to apply them in practice.
PLO-2.2 Knowledge capability - You will have knowledge in at least one discipline other than your primary discipline and some understanding of interdisciplinary linkages.
PLO-3.3 Inquiry and Problem Solving - You will be able to choose appropriate tools and methods to solve scientific problems within your area of specialisation.
PLO-3.4 Inquiry and Problem Solving - You will demonstrate well-developed problem solving skills, applying your knowledge and using your ability to think analytically and creatively.
PLO-4.2 Communication - You will be able to communicate the solution to a problem or the results of a scientific investigation using appropriate methods for different audiences.
PLO-5.1 Personal and professional responsibility - You will develop a capacity for independent and self-directed work.
PLO-5.2 Personal and professional responsibility - You will work responsibly, safely, legally and ethically.
BP330P23 - Bachelor of Space Science
PLO1 Apply a broad and coherent knowledge of scientific theories, principles, concepts and practices, relevant to the field of space science and technology with multi-disciplinary collaboration
PLO3 Analyse and apply principles of scientific inquiry and critical evaluation to address real-world scientific challenges and inform evidence- based decision making.
PLO5 Work independently, with agility, safety, and accountability for one’s own learning and professional future.
PLO6 Collaborate and contribute within diverse, multi-disciplinary teams, with commitment to diversity, equity and globally inclusive perspectives and practices, including First Nations knowledges and input.
For more information on the program learning outcomes for your program, please see the program guide.
Upon successful completion of this course, you should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of basic concepts, syntax and control structures in programming.
- Devise solutions to simple computing problems under specific requirements.
- Encode the devised solutions into computer programs and test the programs on a computer.
- Demonstrate understanding of standard coding conventions and ethical considerations in programming.
Overview of Learning Activities
Teaching staff inputs: Learning resources will be presented, explained and illustrated with demonstrations, examples and problems during lectorials, tutorials, laboratories, consultation sessions, and online using the Canvas LMS. Problem solving exercises, assignments and laboratory discussions are designed to develop your analytical and communication skills, drawing on knowledge and frameworks covered in lectorials. Your inputs as learners: Your active and constructive participation in lectorials and tutorial/laboratory discussions is expected in addition to weekly private study, completion of tutorial and laboratory exercises and careful planning and completion of assessment tasks. While a minimum attendance standard is not compulsory, non-attendance is correlated with lack of success in this course. Where visa conditions apply, attendance is compulsory.
Overview of Learning Resources
You should make extensive use of computer laboratories and relevant software provided by the School. You should be able to access course information and learning materials through Canvas and may be provided with copies of additional materials in class or via email. Lists of relevant reference texts, resources in the library and freely accessible Internet sites will be provided.
Overview of Assessment
The assessment for this course comprises practical work involving the development and analysis of programs in Python. Across all assessment tasks, you will be required to demonstrate your critical analysis and problem-solving skills.
This course has no hurdle requirements.
Assessment Tasks
Assessment Task 1: Fortnightly Quizzes
Weight: 15%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3 & 4
Assessment Task 2: Coding Task
Weight: 25%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3 & 4
Assessment Task 3: Coding Task
Weight: 30%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3 & 4
Assessment Task 4: End-of-semester Timed and Timetabled Task
Weight: 30%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3 & 4
This assessment is a timed and timetabled assessment that students must attend on campus except for international students who are outside Australia.
If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.