| Unit name | Computer Networks and the Internet |
|---|---|
| Unit code | EEMEM0011 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | M/7 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. George Oikonomou |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Units you must take before you take this one (pre-requisite units) |
None |
| Units you must take alongside this one (co-requisite units) |
None |
| Units you may not take alongside this one |
None |
| School/department | School of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering |
| Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
Why is this unit important?
Have you ever wondered how large internet file downloads always complete without errors? How does your computer know where to download a file from, and how does the file find its way through the internet to your device? You can browse the internet, stream a show, and have a video conversation with a friend, all at the same time. How do the different data streams not get mixed up with each other? The unit will give you the answers to those questions, and more. It will help you prepare for a career in industry as a network administrator, network solution engineer, or developer of networked applications. It will help prepare you for doctoral studies on any networking-related research area. It will give you the foundations required to develop a networked product or application as part of your own business venture.
How does this unit fit into your programme of study
This unit is mandatory for the relevant PGT programmes of study and optional on some undergraduate programmes. This unit will give you a holistic picture of all the fundamental knowledge of computer networking required by an electronic engineering graduate, or by a holder of an MSc degree in a networks-related discipline. Depending on what programme of studies you are enrolled on, this unit may also prepare you for the more advanced networks-related content explored by other units.
An overview of content
The unit will introduce and build your skills on computer networking. The unit starts with a discussion of the benefits of breaking the design of a network down into basic building blocks, called “Layers”, and introduces fundamental concepts such as “Protocol” and “Service”. Using real as well as imaginary example protocols, techniques, and design patterns, the unit takes students to a guided journey towards understanding how signals representing bits on physical links between devices can be combined together in complex, heterogenous topologies to ultimately create today’s networks such as the internet.
How will students, personally, be different as a result of the unit
You will gain in-depth understanding of algorithms, protocols and technologies underpinning contemporary computer networks and today’s internet. You will understand that different applications have different requirements, and that there is rarely (if ever) a single best solution when it comes to network design. You will be able to understand the trade-offs between performance, reliability, and other service quality metrics. You will be able to analyse networked application requirements and to design protocols and solutions that meet those requirements.
Learning Outcomes
Having completed this unit, you will be able to:
The unit will incorporate a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities, including lectures, worked example classes, self-directed exercises, and independent reading on the topics covered within the unit. The unit incorporates optional, “Try this at Home” practical, guided exercises that will help you translate theory into professional practice.
Tasks which help you learn and prepare you for summative tasks (formative):
During the course of the unit, you will have the opportunity to attempt online, instant-feedback quizzes. You will be able to attempt the quizzes when you wish, and as many times as you wish. You will receive instant feedback upon submission of these quizzes for reflective self-improvement. You will be able to attend regular worked example synchronous on-campus sessions. Those activities will directly contribute to your preparation for the unit’s summative assessment.
Tasks which count towards your unit mark (summative):
The unit will be assessed by a single exam. The exam will assess all Learning Outcomes.
When assessment does not go to plan
Re-assessment takes the same form as the original summative assessment.
If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.
If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. EEMEM0011).
How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours
of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks,
independent learning and assessment activity.
See the University Workload statement relating to this unit for more information.
Assessment
The assessment methods listed in this unit specification are designed to enable students to demonstrate the named learning outcomes (LOs). Where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, schools will make reasonable adjustments to support a student to demonstrate the LO by an alternative method or with additional resources.
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit.
The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. For appropriate assessments, if you have self-certificated your absence, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (for assessments at the end of TB1 and TB2 this is usually in the next re-assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any exceptional circumstances and operates
within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.
