This class is a possible elective for students on Maths-based degrees, as it does not conflict with compulsory Mathematics/STAMS classes.
Details are given in good faith, but this class and its code or timetable may be subject to change or cancellation.
For further information on this class please contact The Department of Computer and Information Sciences (external link)
Core Details
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Credits | 10 |
General Aims
To provide students with an appreciation of the significance of computer applications and ensure the development of core skills in the use of current Internet communication technologies and information services.
Description
Introduction : the chronological development of computers and their key software components.
Computer applications : the history of key applications - word processors, spreadsheets, databases and communication facilities. The rise and importance of computers-mediated communication. Appreciating the nature and operation of electronic mail. Internet client-server applications, Internet addressing, DNS, and the role of communication protocols. Commercial Internet applications, secure electronic mail, private and public key encryption.
The World-Wide-Web : accessing, downloading and installing software from the Web. Understanding Uniform Resource Locators, application protocols and the Hypertext Markup Language. designing and building Web pages with "raw" HTML. The scope and use of HTML editing tools.
An overview of human-computer interaction: hardware and software ergonomics, styles of interaction.
The legal status of software: freeware, shareware and licensing issues. The social and organisational impact of information technology in general and Internet application in particular. The role of "Conditions of Use" in the workplace. The legal status of electronic mail.