School of Computer Science BCS accreditation 2021 - 2026

Computer Science (Human Computer Interaction) wIE MEng (Hons) - COMP25212 System Architecture

2.1.1 Knowledge and understanding of facts, concepts, principles & theories

The aims of this course are to introduce the most important system architecture approaches, and to give a wider understanding of how real systems operate and, from that understanding, the ability to optimise their use. Fundamental concepts are taught through lectures, example classes and labs

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

2.1.2 Use of such knowledge in modelling and design

Most exercises require high-level modelling of the systems. The lectures cover many aspects of computer design. The labs require modelling a few memory systems and understanding their tradeoffs.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

2.1.3 Problem solving strategies

Lectures include a broad variety of exercises which promote development of problem-solving skills.

Assesement : Examination

2.1.4 Analyse if/how a system meets current and future requirements

The course includes coverage of current and future trends in systems architecture

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

2.1.5 Deploy theory in design, implementation and evaluation of systems

Students develop and use several tools and benchmarks to evaluate computer systems.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

2.1.7 Knowledge and understanding of commercial and economic issues

The last lectures cover current and future trends in systems architecture, part of this is discussed in a business context

Assesement : Examination

2.1.9 Knowledge of information security issues

Security and privacy concerns are explored during the virtualisation part of the course.

Assesement : Examination

2.2.1 Specify, design or construct computer-based systems

The main aim of the course is computer architecture, so system design is an important part thereof.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

2.2.2 Evaluate systems in terms of quality and trade-offs

Most exercises require high-level modelling of computer systems. The lectures cover many aspects of computer design. The labs require modelling a several memory systems and understanding their tradeoffs.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

2.2.3 Recognise risk/safety for safe operation of computing equipment

Security and privacy concerns are explored during the virtualisation part of the course.

Assesement : Examination

2.3.2 Development of general transferable skills

Problem solving, numeracy and technical reporting are important part of the course.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

3.1.3 Knowledge of systems architecture

This is the main focus of the course.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

3.1.4 Knowledge and understanding of mathematical and/or statistical principles

Theoretical analysis and statistics is fundamental to the course.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

3.2.3 System Design

The course covers system design and has a great emphasis on co-design

Assesement : Examination

4.1.1 Knowledge and understanding of scientific and engineering principles

Computer architecture feeds on computer engineering so many of its principles still apply here.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

4.1.2 Knowledge and understanding of mathematical principles

Mathematics and statistics are fundamental to the course.

Assesement : Examination, Lab work

4.1.3 Knowledge and understanding of computational modelling

System modelling is covered in the labs

Assesement : Lab work