Modern Computer Architecture (5 cr)

Objective

The course introduces the key operating principles of modern computers. The course provides information about a computer system's functional components, their characteristics, their performance and their interactions.

After completing the course the student
• understands the interaction between software and hardware and understands how software and hardware design affect the performance of a modern computer
• is familiar with different computer architectures and their applications.

Content

• Computer evolution and performance
• Top-level view of computer functions and interconnections
• Memory systems
• IO systems
• Instruction sets and instruction level parallelism
• Parallel processing

Evaluation scale

0-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student
• has achieved the objectives of the course to a satisfactory level
• is able to identify, define and use concepts and models in the subject area of the course
• understands the conditions and principles of the development of expertise.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student
• has achieved the objectives of the course well, although there are still areas where knowledge and skills need to be improved
• has a good understanding of the concepts and models of the subject matter of the course and is able to carry out a reasoned analysis
• is able to apply what they have learned in learning and working life situations
• understands the importance of expertise in the ICT field and is able to analyse their own expertise.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student
• has achieved the objectives of the course with excellent marks
• has an excellent command of the concepts and models of the subject matter of the course
• is able to analyse clearly and reasonably and propose practical development measures
• has a good ability to apply what they have learned in learning and working life situations
• is able to analyse expertise in the ICT field and their own development towards expertise.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

The student
• has achieved the objectives of the course to a satisfactory level
• is able to identify, define and use concepts and models in the subject area of the course
• understands the conditions and principles of the development of expertise.

Qualifications

Completing first year study modules in Information Technology or equivalent skills and knowledge.