An introduction to computer programming suitable for beginners with little or no prior experience. Introduces the Java programming language, basic object oriented concepts, and simple graphical applications.
If you have no prior computer programming background, then COMP 161 is the paper for you. It is a beginner’s introduction to programming in the object-oriented Java language. We offer COMP 161 on campus in S1, and by distance in S2 and in a “non standard” period (N1 / Pre Christmas Summer School). COMP 161 occupies an important part in the computer science curriculum, because is normally required preparation for COMP 162 (which is a prerequisite for all 200-level Computer Science papers). Students with prior programming experience may sit an Advanced Placement Test for direct entry to COMP162.
| Paper title | Computer Programming |
|---|---|
| Paper code | COMP161 |
| Subject | Computer and Information Science |
| EFTS | 0.1500 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period(s) | Semester 1
(On campus)
Semester 2 (Distance learning) 1st Non standard period (13 November 2023 - 16 December 2023) (Distance learning) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,141.35 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Restriction
- COMP 160
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music, Commerce, Science
- Eligibility
- Enrolments for this paper require departmental permission. View more information about departmental permission.
- Contact
- More information link
- Teaching staff
Course Co-ordinator: Anthony Robins
Lecturer: (all periods): Anthony Robins
Laboratories: Karen Gray, Reuben Crimp- Paper Structure
Lecture and Lab Topics:
- Introduction
- Data types and language basics
- Program structure, methods and basics
- Expressions, arithmetic
- Graphics, drawing and GUIs
- Objects 1, special methods
- Objects 2, strings
- Structured programming
- Design & testing 1
- Boolean expressions, blocks, if else
- Selection
- Repetition 1
- Repetition 2
- Arrays 1
- Arrays 2
- Objects 3, classes and methods
- Objects 4, references
- Collections, ArrayList
- Design & testing 2
- Files, multi-dimensional arrays
- Graphics 1, components
- Graphics 2, events
- Graphics 3, examples
- OO topics
- Simulation. Programming
- Topics in computer science
Assessment:
- A sequence of programming mastery tests worth 60%. Each mastery test must be passed in order to be eligible to sit the next one.
- Two programming practical tests worth 10% and 30%.
- Teaching Arrangements
On campus in Semester One (S1):
- Two lectures per week (one hour each)
- Two labs per week (two hours each)
Distance taught in Semester Two (S2) and Pre-Christmas Summer School (N1):
- This
Distance Learning offering of this paper is taught remotely, but features in-person
assessment
(students are required to undertake assessment in-person in a set physical location.)
- Textbooks
Textbooks are not required for this paper.
- Course outline
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Lifelong learning, Critical thinking, Information literacy, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
This paper will enable students to:
- Understand fundamental concepts relating to computer programming
- Demonstrate the ability to design and develop simple computer programs
- Develop knowledge and skills relating to problem solving, program design, object oriented programming, and event-driven graphical programming
