Introduction to Programming

Unit code: VIT1102 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Nicholson
VU Brisbane
VU Sydney
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
Enquire

Overview

This unit introduces students to modern computer programming language, problem solving and algorithm development. Students will be exposed to multiple design strategies, including top-down design and recursive design with functions, object-based programming, and object-oriented design.



Content includes: Data Types and Expressions, Control Statements, Strings and Text Files, Design with Functions, Design with Classes, Graphical User Interfaces, Simple Graphics and Image Processing.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate skills in using a programming language;
  2. Apply suitable design strategies to develop a solution;
  3. Develop algorithms using basic programming language; and
  4. Apply basic object-oriented software principles in problem solving.
  5. Participate in an academic community through reflective and critical engagement in academic texts and understanding of principles of academic integrity.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Laboratory Work
|
Grade: 30%
Weekly Laboratory Practical Tasks
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
2 x Practical Tasks (20% each)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
Final Test
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 0%
Evidence of completion of the Academic Integrity Modules (Hurdle)

Other locations

For students studying at Henan University
Assessment type: Laboratory Work
|
Grade: 30%
4 x Laboratory Practical Tasks
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
2 x Practical Tests (20% each)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
Final Written Test
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 0%
Evidence of completion of the Academic Integrity Modules (Hurdle)

This unit is delivered in a blended delivery model via six hours of weekly face to face sessions with the Instructor along with online resources available through the Learning Management System. This model allows the students to take responsibility for their learning by accessing resources and completing activities in an online environment prior to attending a facilitated face-to-face session that progresses and applies the learning. Teaching and learning strategies used include: self-paced delivery; practical computer-based labs delivery utilising leading IT vendor materials; project or group work; reflection and participation in on-line forums. Delivery strategies will address the learning outcomes and meet the needs of the learner. Additional 15hrs outside the time specified is required to complete all assessments.

Formative assessments (Post-Class Quizzes, Lab Tasks) are systematically used throughout the unit to build knowledge and scaffold skill development.

For students studying at VU Sydney
Assessment type: Laboratory Work
|
Grade: 30%
Weekly Laboratory Practical Tasks
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
2 x Practical Tasks
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
Final Test
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 0%
Evidence of completion of the Academic Integrity Modules (Hurdle)

The delivery model of this unit allows students to take responsibility for their learning by accessing resources and completing activities in an online environment prior to attending either in person or online facilitated sessions that progresses and applies the learning. Teaching and learning strategies used include: practical computer-based labs delivery; individual and group work using problem-driven exercises designed to develop and apply their knowledge and skills to solve programming problems; accessing help available on on-line industry-lead forums such as www.stackoverflow.com.
Delivery strategies will address the learning outcomes and meet the needs of the learner. The unit is designed for the majority of learners to achieve the learning outcomes within the time specified.

Academic support is available for students who require additional support.

Formative assessments (Post-Class Quizzes, Lab Tasks) are systematically used throughout the unit to build knowledge and scaffold skill development.

Required reading

There are no required textbooks for this unit. A comprehensive set of Unit Notes in electronic format will be available via the Learning Management System (VU Collaborate).

The following texts are recommended only: Lambert, KA & Osborne, M 2019, Fundamentals of Python?: first programs, 2nd ed., Cengage Learning, Boston, MA. Sweigart, A 2017, Invent your own computer games with Python, 4th ed., No Starch Press, San Francisco, CA.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Diploma of Cyber Security
VDCS | Diploma | Duration: 1 year
Diploma of Information Technology
VDIT | Diploma | Duration: 1 year
Undergraduate Certificate in Web Development and Programming
VUWD | Undergraduate certificate | Duration: 0.5 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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