Studying at York
Programming for Digital Media (BCI) - TFT00040I
Module summary
This module introduces students to the fundamentals of computer programming by teaching the key concepts and principles required to implement interactive systems. The module assumes no prior experience in computer programming by starting from the absolute basics of computer programming (e.g. how to declare variables) but by the end of the module students are working on more advanced programs that implement these concepts within more complex interactive programs. Students learn how to design programs that are well structured and get lots of experience in debugging and problem solving. Students also work on creating programs that use hardware peripherals including the Leap Motion, Game Pad controller and webcam to control interesting visual and auditory outputs. Lectures are used to introduce the key concepts and in practicals students work individually on exercises to get experience of implementing the different techniques and solving problems. Students who do have prior programming experience should not expect to be bored though, as stretch exercises and challenges can be provided in practical’s to retain your interest.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Autumn Term 2022-23 |
Module aims
To develop student skills for computer programming in a multimedia context.
To develop basic programming skills for digital imaging (synthetic and natural images from computer graphics and physical camera sources) and sound manipulation.
To develop basic programming skills for human-computer interaction devices.
Module learning outcomes
And the end of this module you will:
Understand the syntax and semantics of one high level programming language and be able to use it in writing illustrative examples and small to medium programmes.
Be aware of and be able to apply techniques for programming with digital imaging, digital sound and interaction techniques.
Appreciate the nature of software design using digital imaging, digital sound and the human-computer interface.
Have the ability to design and implement basic programs in at least one high level language.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 50 |
| Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 50 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 50 |
| Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 50 |
Module feedback
Students will receive individual oral feedback for the weekly practical laboratory tasks, during the laboratory sessions.
Indicative reading
Indicative type of book which will depend on specific programming language choice:
Schiffman, D., 2015, Learning Processing.
Reas, C. and Fry, B., 2010. Getting Started With Processing. O'Reilly.
High quality online material is widely available for learning in this field, for example for the Processing language: