Informatics 1 - Computation and Logic (U04323)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 8 ? Acronym : INF-1-INF1-CL

The goal of this strand is to introduce the notions of computation and specification using finite-state systems and propositional logic. Finite state machines provide a simple model of computation that is widely used, has an interesting meta-theory and has immediate application in a range of situations. They are used as basic computational models across the whole of Informatics and at the same time are used successfully in many widely used applications and components. Propositional logic, similarly is the first step in understanding logic which is an essential element of the specification of Informatics systems and their properties.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : SCE H-grade Mathematics or equivalent is desirable.

? Co-requisites : Informatics 1 - Functional Programming [U04324] is a strict co-requisite.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Informatics, (School of Informatics, Schedule O)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 1st year

? Delivery Period : Semester 1 (Blocks 1-2)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
24/09/2009	11:10	12:00	Lecture Theatre 4, Appleton Tower	Central

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Thursday	11:10	12:00	Central
Lecture	Friday	14:00	14:50	Central

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

1 - Design a small finite-state system to describe, control or realise some behaviour.
2 - Evaluate the quality of such designs using standard engineering approaches.
3 - Apply the algebra of finite automata to design systems and to solve simple problems on creating acceptors for particular languages.
4 - Describe simple problems using propositional logic.
5 - For a given formula in propositional logic, draw a truth table for that formula and hence deduce whether that formula is true or not.
6 - Apply a system of proof rules to prove simple propositional theorems.
7 - Describe the range of systems to which finite-state systems and propositional logic are applicable and be able to use the meta theory to demonstrate the limitations of these approaches in concrete situations.

Assessment Information

Written Examination 100
Assessed Assignments 0
Oral Presentations 0

Assessment
Formative assessment will be used to provide feedback and guidance to students and will take the form of quizzes, exercise sheets, practical exercises and coursework assignments, covering areas from across the syllabus.