COM5003 - Further Software Development

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to: Demonstrate capacity to code effectively in an object-oriented language such as Java;
Understand the difference between native apps and app wrappers as well as the principles of domain-driven design;
Select and implement appropriate data structures and algorithms for a specified task;
Manage issues of app performance and security effectively;
Test and evaluate the efficiency of an implementation relative to a specified application.

Content:

This module builds proficiency in computer programming and mobile app development, setting the technical skills within realistic commercial contexts. It draws upon foundational knowledge and understanding in COM4012 Introduction to Software Development, developing the higher-level programming skills and mathematical understanding required to design and implement large scale object-oriented programs across diverse platforms.

The module seeks to further students' knowledge of the fundamental principles and processes of programming in higher-level computer languages, such as: the use of an IDE and standard libraries, fundamental data structures, abstract data types and algorithms, higher order functions and object-oriented design.

The module also provides an overview of cross platform mobile app development (on platforms such as Android and iOS): native apps and app wrappers, patterns and terminologies of Domain Driven Design (DDD), scalability (database optimisation and load balancing), and mobile app security.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Students are expected to rehearse the development processes provided in COM4012 Introduction to Software Development. Interactive workshops introduce and support enhanced considerations: Java programming, computational complexity and run-time efficiency, cross platform development and security considerations. There is also support for developing design specifications to the right level and scope, and for establishing a comprehensive and realistic project schedule.

Workshops
Hours: 60
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 240

Further details relating to assessment
Case study 1: students design and justify a solution for a business problem. Case study 2: this is an evaluation of brand resilience, potential for scaling and focusing the artefact, and evaluation against competitor products. This is submitted before the completion of the project so that feedback can be used formatively in the project.

Artefact: The assessment comprises the following:
1) Development and implementation of the software artefact;
2) A test;
3) A reflective evaluation of the software artefact, its design and workability.

The marking reflects excellence in the awareness of the key issues, rather than whether 'everything' is executed in the app.

Assessment:

001 Case Study 1; 1500 word equiiv; mid semester 1 20%
002 Case Study 2; 1500 word equiv; end semester 1 20%
003 Project; Artefact; mid semester 2 60%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Xin Lu
Level - 5
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 5YL

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