Unit outline for Java Programming (CITS1200).

6 points / Semester 1, Semester 2
Location: UWA (Crawley)

Handbook description

This unit covers the most fundamental portions of the Java programming language, focusing strongly on the language structures and techniques needed to write well-structured programs in the object-oriented paradigm. In particular, the process of developing appropriate classes, objects and methods to solve simple computational problems underlies the entire unit. Core computer programming topics such as the use of variables, primitive and reference data types, expressions, control structures involving selection and repetition, method decomposition and parameter passing are all covered in this context. Algorithmic techniques such as iteration, recursion and sorting, along with programming practices such as error-handling, testing, debugging and documentation are introduced. A strong focus is placed on the practical application of these concepts and techniques to produce working programs in computer laboratories. The rationale for using the object-oriented paradigm, and in particular the language Java, is covered in detail. No prior knowledge of computing or programming is assumed.

Prerequisites: TEE Discrete Mathematics or TEE Applicable Mathematics or TEE Calculus

Unit aims

Students learn to design and implement object-oriented programs in Java to solve simple computational problems; are introduced to the foundational concepts underlying modern object-oriented programming, in particular, objects, classes and methods; and gain an appreciation of the role of object-oriented programming in modern software engineering.

Teaching staff

Unit Co-ordinator: Dr. Lyndon While

Textbook

Recommended reading

David Barnes, Object Oriented Programming with Java.

David Barnes and Michael Kolling, Objects First.

Contact hours

71 (lectures: 26 hrs; labs: 33 hrs; workshop: 12 hrs)

Assessment

This comprises a number of small laboratory exercises, a programming project, a mid-semester test and a final examination. The laboratory exercises and the programming project develop the ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution, the ability to apply fundamental knowledge and in-depth technical competence. The project is undertaken in small teams and requires the programming work to be clearly documented. This develops and enhances both teamwork and communication skills. The mid-semester test consists of a number of multiple-choice questions and provides students with early feedback on their progress in the unit. The final examination tests the student's knowledge of the theory of programming via multiple-choice questions, and its practice by requiring students to write a number of small programs. Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit except in the case of a bachelor's pass degree student who has obtained a mark of 45 to 49 and is currently enrolled in this unit, and it is the only remaining unit that the student must pass in order to complete the course.

Unsatisfactory progress

Any student who does not demonstrate satisfactory progress in this unit, as defined in the Faculty's policies on assessment practices and procedures, may be refused admission to the final examinations. The final deadline for notification of unsatisfactory progress is the last day of Week 10.

Penalties

The School of Computer Science and Software Engineering has adopted a policy on minimum penalties for late items of assessment. This is the default policy of all units unless indicated otherwise, in writing, by the specific unit coordinator.

This policy shall apply to all items of continuous assessment, whether submitted either physically or electronically. Immediately after the submission deadline for an item of continuous assessment, a penalty of 20 percent will be applied PER DAY or PART THEREOF. The minimum mark possible for late submission is zero. The percentage is based on the item´s total contribution to the unit´s assessment. For example, a project contributing 40% to the unit´s assessment will incur a penalty of 8 marks for each day late until it is submitted or a mark of zero results.

A more detailed description is given in this School´s policy on late submission. The Faculty does have an appeals procedure, the details of which can found at the policy for appeals.

Special consideration

Applications for consideration, deferral of tests or exams or extensions of time for assignments on medical, personal or other grounds must be lodged with the faculty office no later than three working days after the due date for the assessment in question. This rule will apply to all students, except in exceptional circumstances.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is broadly defined to be when any portion of the work presented for assessment, can be attributed to another party. The student making the submission should acknowledge what aspects of the presented work is not directly derived by them. For the purposes of plagiarism it is irrelevant that you have been given permission by someone to copy their work and present it as your own.

You are directed to the Faculty's policy on plagiarism.

Academic misconduct

The University of Western Australia strongly supports teaching and learning that promotes academic literacy and ethical scholarship for all students. As part of this commitment, UWA has recently developed new guidelines relating to Academic Misconduct (including plagiarism). It is also developing a range of resources for students and staff to further strengthen academic literacy and ethical scholarship at UWA. Further information is available on the Teaching and Learning website.

Academic Conduct Essentials (ACE)

All students who have not previously been enrolled at UWA are required to complete a short compulsory online module called Academic Conduct Essentials (ACE) within the first 10 weeks of semester. ACE introduces students to essential knowledge regarding ethical scholarship, helps prepare them for the expectations of their university career and informs them of correct academic conduct.

The unit can be accessed via WebCT. The final unit quiz must be completed with a mark of 80% or greater. Students may attempt the quiz as many times as they wish to gain the required pass mark. Completion of the unit will be recorded as an Ungraded Pass (UP) on students’ academic records. Non-completion (NC) within the required timeframe will also be documented on formal academic records.

Faculty Marks Adjustment Policy

Final assessment is subject to the Faculty's scaling policy.

Supplementary Examinations

Supplementary examinations will be awarded in accordance with the Faculty policy on supplementary assessment.

Student rights

Consult the University's Charter of Student Rights and Responsibilities.