Key facts
UNE unit code: COSC250
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
A programming language gives us a way of modelling and expressing a computer program. As programs tackle more complex tasks using big, fast, and distributed flows of data, the need for more powerful ways to think about and express our programs will only increase.
This unit introduces you to the paradigms (the particular styles or features) behind advanced programming languages used by many of the world’s leading software companies.
Taught predominantly using Scala, a mixed-paradigm language that will familiarise you with many concepts, the unit helps you to develop knowledge and technical skills with broad practical applications.
You will learn about functional programming, different type systems, and techniques for asynchronous, streaming and reactive programming. These techniques are useful across a wide spectrum – from making small problems simple, to modern event-based web systems, to “fast data” systems that process large flows of asynchronous data.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
A knowledge of, and programming experience with, a high level programming language is recommended. Experience with the use of the Linux/UNIX operating system is highly recommended. AMTH140 is a recommended unit.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- analyse how programming languages relate to models of reasoning about a computer program;
- write programs in a modern functional programming language;
- build systems that use abstractions for asynchronous programming and reactive streams;
- apply advanced language features and type systems in the design of programs; and
- analyse the use of functional programming and other paradigms in practice.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Programming and analysis. |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Programming, analysis and exercises. |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Programming, analysis and exercises. |
| Assessment 4 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Quizzes and automarked exercises. |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Final Exam. It is mandatory to pass this component in order to pass the unit. There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Programming in Scala
ISBN: 9780997148008
Odersky, M., Spoon, L. and Venners, B., Woodslane 5th ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Referenced material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Scala for the Impatient
ISBN: 9780138033651
Horstmann, C.S., Pearson 3rd ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
Conceptual Mathematics: A First Introduction to Categories
ISBN: 9780521719162
Lawvere, F.W., Cambridge University Press 2nd ed. 2009
Text refers to: All offerings
Functional Programming in Scala
ISBN: 9781617299582
Pilquist, M., Chiusano, P. and Bjarnason, R., Manning Publications 2nd ed. 2023
Text refers to: All offerings
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