Introduction to Computer Science - International Foundation

Module description

Our Computer Science Foundation module will provide you with the key skills and ways of thinking that are excellent preparation for an undergraduate degree in computer science.

You’ll learn about a range of computer science topics, including:

• artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Python data structures
• File I/O
• object-oriented programming
• applying maths and science knowledge to construct electrical circuits
• how to build an algorithm to process and manipulate data
• how to implement abstract data types

This Computer Science Foundation module covers relevant academic subject knowledge and strongly emphasises problem-based learning. It examines the rigorous process of developing solutions, from design to implementation and evaluation.

You’ll learn general-purpose programming and enjoy a blend of lecture and lab-based tuition, ensuring you are well-versed in theoretical and practical matters.

This Computer Science Foundation module will prepare you for the successful study of computer science at an undergraduate level, including a range of degrees at King’s in the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences. It provides a strong foundation for further study across various degrees, including Artificial Intelligence MSci, Biomedical Engineering BEng, Computer Science BSc and Electronic Engineering BEng.  

Assessment details

Coursework 10%

Midterms 40%

Final Exam 50%

Educational aims & objectives

• This Computer Science Foundation module will:

  • introduce you to the field of computer science
  • develop your knowledge of topics relevant to computer science and mathematics
  • build your skills in applied scientific thinking and problem-solving
  • increase your practical skills through the completion of relevant practical work
  • Introduce you to programming using Python and teach you the difference between compiled and interpreted languages, arithmetic operators, logical operators, equality and relational operators, scoping of variables, data types, string processing, input and output, conditional control structures, loops and functions
  • give you an understanding of Python data structures
  • give you an understanding of File I/O
  • introduce you to object-oriented programming and its classes, objects, encapsulation, method construction and special methods
  • teach you about abstract data types such as stacks, queues and trees
  • introduce you to artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Computer Science Foundation module, you will be able to:

• design, implement and evaluate (Python) programs of varying complexity to solve computational problems. This includes exposure to general programming topics such as logical operators, relational operators, conditional control structures and data types.
• apply your knowledge of mathematics and science to the analysis and construction of simple electrical circuits.
• build algorithms to process and manipulate data
• implement abstract data types, e.g., stacks, queues, and trees
• understand popular searching and sorting algorithms
• describe subfields of artificial intelligence and the three major types of machine learning.

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.