Teaching and assessment in Computing

Teaching Methods

Most modules comprise 20-22 hour of lectures (usually given at two lectures per week). They may be supplemented by supporting classes but you are also expected to allocate at least one hour of study time for every lecture. In a practical discipline, it is no surprise that practical work is important. These activities are typically supported by tutorials, help-desks and problem classes. Throughout your studies you are encouraged to develop transferable skills through activities such as group work and an individual final year project. You will be assigned in small groups to a personal tutor who acts as an adviser throughout your degree programme.

Wherever possible, we involve research and industrial contacts in teaching; some lectures may be given over to guest speakers and research staff, and your final year project may be arranged in connection with an outside company or organisation.

Our approach to teaching means that our students become well-rounded graduates, technically literate, able to communicate and with a clear understanding of the needs of the outside world, and their own rôle in meeting those needs.

Examinations and Assessment

Examinations take place at the end of each semester in each year of the degree programme. In taught modules the final grade is based solely upon examination performance but courseworks and mock exams will allow you to get important feedback on your progress. You are expected to hand in all courseworks and take part in all assessment activities.

A satisfactory performance is required at the end of each year in order for you to proceed to the next year of the degree programme, and the final degree classification takes into account performance in the second year as well as in the final-year examinations.