Prior Knowledge: Java and OOP
This module requires you to write Java code almost every week, starting from the very first week. While we introduce some bit of Java programming in this module, it is by no means exhaustive. The module expects that you learn much of Java programming by yourself.
In particular, you may want to have a look at the new Java 8 features such as streams, lambdas, Optionals. These are used in the codebase given to you.
Workload
Given 60% of this module is based on CA, it can appear to be heavy. However, it is not expected that you will spend more time on this module than its peer modules (e.g., if this module is core for you, it should not take more time than other level 2 core modules in your program).
- Note that the module contains more things than a typical students can do, in order to provide enough things for even the strongest students to learn as much as they wish to.
- This means it is perfectly OK if you don't have time to learn everything the module offers. Control your workload based on time you spend for the module in a week e.g., 1-1.5 days per week.
- We have provided a star rating system to guide you when prioritizing which things to do.
Star rating system
Start with things that are rated one-star and progress to things with more stars. Things rated four stars are optional.
Star ratings for Learning Outcomes (and textbook sections):
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One-star topics : The topics you need to learn just to keep up with the module. We recommend you to learn these topics if you want to pass the module (i.e. up to a C grade).
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Two-stars topics : Can get you up to a B+.
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Three-stars topics : Can get you up to an A.
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Four-stars topics : Can be useful for getting an A+, tutors positions, and getting into downstream SE modules that have competitive entry requirements (e.g., CS3281&2, CS3217, CS3216). Four-star topics are not examinable. Omitting them will not affect your CAP (as A+ has the same CAP as an A grade)
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Topics marked with two icons e.g., : , : , : , : are relevant topoics you are expected have learned in prerequisite modules. They are given for reference, but are examinable. The number of stars indicate the progression of topics, similar to the star rating system above i.e., one-star prerequisite topics are the most basic and the most important. Four-star pre-requisite topics can be ignored without affecting CAP.
Star ratings for other things e.g., admin info sections:
- The module uses a similar star rating system to indicate the importance of other info in this website. i.e., information rated as one-star are the most essential. Info rated four stars are non-essential and can be ignored without affecting your ability to follow the module.