ACIT4420 Problem-solving with scripting Course description

This course covers the use of scripting as a programming paradigm to solve challenges like system automation and integration as well as data analysis. Focus is on understanding how scripting combined with utility libraries can be helpful in solving a task. Scripts can vary in length and complexity, but are normally written in a high-level language that focuses on ease of expression and readability as well as a powerful set of libraries for integrating with other systems. Scripts can be written as a mean to create tools that eases scientific work or automates tasks. However, they can also be used to make systems interact that would normally not. In most automated workflows, there are several scripts acting as the glue between otherwise incompatible systems.

No formal requirements over and above the admission requirements.

The student should have the following outcomes upon completing the course:

Knowledge

Upon successful completion of the course, the student:

• has a deep understanding of how scripting is utilised to automate common tasks
• has advanced knowledge of scripting strategies that allow his/her scripts to be robust against unforeseen failures and erroneous user input
• has advanced knowledge of how a code-base can be maintained through version control systems
• has a deep understanding of how scripts can be used to integrate two systems
• understands how scripting languages can be expanded through libraries

Skills

Upon successful completion of the course, the student:

• can design and implement script-based tools
• can design and implement a script-based service
• can utilize a specialized library to integrate their script with a subsystem or framework
• can evaluate and discuss how scripting may or may not facilitate system automation
• can explain and discuss how system automation forms a part of system administration best practices
• can utilize a version control system for their code-base

General competence

Upon successful completion of the course, the student:

• can analyse automation approaches with regard to robustness and in relation to his/her intended tasks
• can explain how systems automation and scripting is used to facilitate workflow and automation tasks to experts and non-experts alike

This course is divided into two parts. The first part with focus on covering the particular scripting language used in this class, such as its syntax, use and some extra libraries. The first part will also cover the practice of using a version control system as the means to store the code-base. During this part, students will meet for weekly lectures and lab-sessions where they work on exercises.

The second part will focus on the students completing a programming project. The project can be chosen from a portfolio of available problems. The student will work individually on the project and submit a final code-base that also includes documentation. During this part, there may be lectures if needed, but most of the time will be spent on individual supervision of students in lab-sessions.

Practical training

Lab sessions.

None.

An individual project report between 6000 and 12000 words, not counting code appendix.

The exam can be appealed.

New/postponed exam

In case of failed exam or legal absence, the student may apply for a new or postponed exam. New or postponed exams are offered within a reasonable time span following the regular exam. The student is responsible for applying for a new/postponed exam within the time limits set by OsloMet. The Regulations for new or postponed examinations are available in Regulations relating to studies and examinations at OsloMet.

All aids are permitted.

For the final assessment a grading scale from A to E is used, where A denotes the highest and E the lowest pass grade, and F denotes a fail.

Two internal examiners. External examiner is used periodically.

Associate Professor Laszlo Erdodi