PROG1000 Introduction to Programming Course description

This course focuses on the development of basic programming techniques, analytical thinking, comprehension of code, and problem-solving skills achieved through a programming-based approach. It aims to develop basic programming skills relevant for professional use within the realm of business and administration. It provides theoretical and practical exposure to different programming technologies and programming concepts such as object-oriented programming, web programming, etc.

To understand some of the concepts presented in this course, a knowledge of mathematics at high school algebra level is a definite advantage but not a requirement.

No additional requirements to the general requirements for entry to the programme.

After completing this course, the student should have the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

On successful completion of this course the student has:

• basic understanding of the operation and capabilities of software
• an understanding of what an algorithm is and the ability to use algorithmic problem-solving to address real-life problems in business and administration
• basic knowledge of the methods used to debug software
• basic knowledge of how processes within the realm of business and administration can be automated using software
• insight in how software are written, and an understanding of various types of programming languages and their function in various areas of business and administration.

Skills

On successful completion of this course the student has acquired an ability to:

• format and write basic code
• explain how problem-solving principles are used in programming
• understand how to frame and elicit unstructured business and/or administration problems in order to solve them through programming,
• understand the steps required to make software more efficient

General Competence

On successful completion of this course the student is:

• proficient in planning and implementing a project plan for software development for business and administration
• able to identify and remediate bugs
• able to identify specific business and/or administration requirements that can be solved with programming
• able to communicate these requirements in a structured manner
• able to recognize the place that programming has within the domain of business and administration

The course will take a hands-on learning approach in addition to learning the theoretical concepts behind programming. Course participants will work in groups on a project relevant to the field of business and administration.

None.

Portfolio assessment, including an oral presentation, a project report and a code repository.

Each student group will submit a 2000 to 3000-word report and a code repository within a given deadline. In addition, each student group will be required to give an oral presentation of their project, including a question-and-answer session with the examiners. Each member of the group has to be present at the oral presentation in order to get a grade. Videos will not be accepted as a substitute to the oral presentation. Each group may consist of 2-5 candidates.

The project report, the code repository and the oral presentation are graded as a whole and given one grade. The result cannot be appealed.

The main purpose of the course is to improve the students' ability to communicate in English both in writing and orally in a professional context. The course is cross-curricular since a large part of the syllabus is related to subjects within business and economics. It will prepare the students to deal with real situations in the business world.

No prerequisites.

After completing the course, students will acquired the learning outcomes defined in knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• has an extensive vocabulary in economic/administrative English
• knows several oral and written genres of business communication
• knows the main points of grammar necessary for correct and idiomatic usage of the English language
• has knowledge of a wide range of cross-curricular business topics
• has knowledge of several issues in both American and British societies
• is familiar with some works of fiction in English

Skills

The student

• can write professional English
• can speak fluently about a wide range of business topics and various aspects of society and culture in English
• can deal with professional situations in the business world
• can understand spoken and written English used in a business context
• can use a wide range of professional vocabulary in oral and written contexts
• is able to discuss, analyse and reflect on various issues in English
• has developed his/her practical problem-solving skills

General competence

The student

• has developed his/her communicative competence in English, which includes linguistic, intercultural and strategic competencies
• can function well in many professional situations internationally
• can apply his/her skills and knowledge of business English
• can understand English language curricula and lectures in other subjects better

In addition to lectures there are case studies, group work, assignment review, discussions, student presentations, and written assignments. Regular attendance and active participation in classroom activities are expected. Independent study is required.