Networks and Platform Technologies Course Descriptor

Course Overview

This course is a two-week, face-to-face, intensive bootcamp, introducing the fundamentals of computer networks. The course content includes fundamental computer networking concepts:, structure, cloud architecture, components, quality of service, network architectures, network topologies, network protocols, layering concepts (for example, ISO/OSI, TCP/IP reference models), communication paradigms (point-to-point vs. multicast/broadcast, connectionless vs. connection oriented), and networking APIs (sockets). Also covers the construction of distributed programs, with an emphasis on high-level protocols and distributed state sharing. Topics include design patterns, transactions, performance trade-offs, security implications and common methodologies,  reliability and sustainability issues such as green computing. Uses examples from real networks (TCP/IP, Ethernet, 802.11) and distributed systems (Web, BitTorrent, DNS) to reinforce concepts.  This intensive course will provide learners with the opportunity to apply their knowledge of networks and platform technologies using industry-standard cloud-based technology.

This course encompasses the fundamentals of computer networks and platform technologies. It considers the design principles underpinning distributed systems that harness network capabilities, while considering elements of common security architectures, sustainable development principles, and green computing practices. Additionally, the course covers the architecture, algorithms, and protocols of the Internet. The course facilitates hands-on learning, enabling participants to build and understand Internet applications.

Course Aims

• Train learners with the fundamentals of computer networks and platform technologies.
• Train learner with the design principles behind distributed systems that leverage the network.
• Train learners on the architecture, algorithms, and protocols of the Internet.
• Allow learners to engage in hands-on projects to learn how to build and understand Internet applications.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the course, learners will be able to:

Knowledge and Understanding

Subject Specific Skills

Transferable and Professional Skills

Teaching and Learning

This is a face-to-face bootcamp, of two weeks duration, taught once every year.

This course can be offered as a standalone short course.

Teaching and learning strategies for this course will include: 

• Lectures
• Informal discussion groups
• Practical sessions
• Assessment

Course information and supplementary materials will be available on the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

Learners are required to attend and participate in all the formal and timetabled sessions for this course. Learners are also expected to manage their self-directed learning and independent study in support of the course.

The course learning and teaching hours will be structured as follows:

• Off-the-job learning and teaching (12 days x 7 hours) = 84 hours
• On-the-job learning (10 days x 7 hours) = 70 hours

Apprentices will complete workplace activities before and after the bootcamp, as part of their on-the-job learning. Preliminary activities include reading and workplace research and Post-bootcamp activities will include completion of the assignments (see below).

Assessment

Formative

Learners will be formatively assessed during the course by means of set assignments. These will not count towards the final degree but will provide learners with developmental feedback. 

Summative

Assessment will be in two forms:

Feedback

Learners will receive formal feedback in a variety of ways: written (via email or VLE correspondence) and indirectly through online discussion groups. Learners will also attend a formal meeting with their Academic Mentor (and for apprentices, including their Line Manager). These bi- or tri-partite reviews will monitor and evaluate the learner’s progress.

Feedback is provided on summatively assessed assignments and through generic internal examiners’ reports, both of which are posted on the VLE.

Indicative Reading

Note: Comprehensive and current reading lists for courses are produced annually in the Course Syllabus or other documentation provided to learners; the indicative reading list provided below is used as part of the approval/modification process only.

Books 

• Peterson, L. and Davue, B., (2012), Computer Networks: A Systems Approach, Amsterdam; London: Morgan Kaufmann
• Kurose. J. and Ross, K., (2005), Computer Networking: a top-down approach featuring the Internet, Addison-Wesley
• Tanenbaum, A. S., (2002), Computer Networks, Prentice Hall

Journals

Learners are encouraged to consult relevant journals on computer networks and platform technologies. 

Electronic Resources

Learners are encouraged to consult relevant electronic resources on computer networks and platform technologies. 

Indicative Topics

• Networks
• Distributed Systems
• Platform Technologies

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