Programming Logic

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 3
• Convenor: Gordon McIntyre
• Assessment: an online quiz (30%) and problem-solving worksheets (70%)

This module provides a first step into the world of computer programming. You will have the opportunity to deconstruct common everyday machine operations, processes and problems into their constituent parts. In addition, you will be able to express problems and provide solutions in a clear and logical format using a standard notation.

A major part of the module is aimed at developing the logical thinking and problem-solving skills associated with computer programming and computer programmers.

Indicative syllabus

• Computers and programming
• Programming logic
• Pseudo code and flowcharts
• Variables
• Input, processing and output
• Input validation
• Data storage and files
• Modules and functions

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• define software
• enumerate the different kinds of software currently in use
• understand the mechanisms of how computer programs work
• define the terms input, output and processing
• understand how computers use and store data
• understand the structure of a basic computer program
• define and use variables in simple algorithms
• define logical and mathematical operators and use them in simple algorithms
• solve a range of level 3 appropriate logical problems
• use a standard notation to express solutions.