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COM3013 - Web Technologies

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

1 - Design and evaluate appropriate user interfaces for front end web applications
2 - Develop an understanding of front and back end interactive web applications using modern development environments
3 - Demonstrate an awareness of current industry standards such as those related to accessibility, security and user experience.

Content:

The ubiquity of the Web and the Internet has become integral to contemporary living, serving as a vast information reservoir and fostering innovative, interactive approaches to computing activities that cross platforms from desktop and mobile to the Internet of Things (smart; homes, car, cities) for both personal and collaborative experiences.

The ways in which we design for, develop and deploy these applications constantly evolves, due to the increasing changing needs of users, society and enterprise. With this in mind, developers need to evolve the way that they design for future platforms.

The module provides students with a firm grounding in web technologies within the context of a range of platforms from mobile to smart devices. This is combined with a more theoretical understanding of important web technology issues surrounding design and security which are then enhanced through applied examples. The student first learns to design and develop for the web using modern, industry aligned approaches, refining their skills creating web-based applications.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The learning and teaching approach employed in this module revolves around a sequence of predominantly hands-on, guided activities anchored in theoretical foundations. Aligned with the University's teaching and learning strategy, the instructional process unfolds in three distinct stages: preparation, delivery, and practice (pre-live-post). To maximise the learning experience, students are tasked with a set of recommended activities prior to each session. These activities encompass a spectrum of tasks, ranging from reading designated textbook pages and exploring online resources to downloading data and installing relevant software. This proactive preparation lays the groundwork for informed participation during the sessions. During the actual sessions, the focus shifts to theoretical introductions followed by interactive activities designed to advance the students through various phases of learning and skill development. Following the sessions, students are prompted to undertake additional activities independently or in small groups. These post-session tasks serve a dual purpose: reinforcing peer-to-peer learning and cultivating the students' ability to become self-reliant learners. By engaging in these follow-up activities, students not only solidify their understanding of the material but also develop the autonomy to navigate and apply their knowledge beyond the confines of the classroom.

Workshops
Contact Hours: 60
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 240

Further details relating to assessment

Web Application: The general specifications of the website that is to be constructed, including the requirements for its functionality and design, will be supplied through a brief. The mark attributed reflects the nature and quality of the coding and functionality of the website.

Web Commentary: This assessment accompanies the application, explaining the process through which it was designed and constructed. The assessment may take the form of a code walk-through, student demo or description of problem-solving either via oral presentation or written report. The student should reflect on lessons learned, strengths and weaknesses and potential for further development.

In computer science classes, formative assessment serves to bolster the skills essential for module success. This includes engaging in practical labs, undertaking design and modelling tasks, delivering case study presentations, completing short quizzes and conducting specific investigation tasks. The provision of formative feedback is integrated seamlessly into class sessions, ensuring an ongoing and iterative process to enhance learning outcomes.

Full details are available in the Module Handbook.

Assessment:

001 Artefact; web page; end of semester 1 50%
002 Negotiated assessment; 2,000 word equiv.; end of semester 2 50%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Aliyu Lawal Aliyu
Level - 0
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 3S2