KL4004 - Computer Programming and Digital Electronics

What will I learn on this module?

This module introduces you to the fundamental principles of computer programming and digital electronics and their application in satellite engineering. Both of these subjects are essential fundamentals in satellite engineering.



In the computing part of the module you will learn how programming is used to control hardware, such as in satellite on-board computers and embedded controllers. Typical topics will include:



Develop an understanding of the basic principles of computer programming.

Build problem-solving and programming skills through practical exercises and projects tailored to your learning needs.

Gain insight into how embedded systems operate and their relevance in engineering contexts.

Learn to write, test, and debug simple programs for embedded systems.





You will also learn digital electronics will allow you to analyse and design of combinational and sequential logic circuits. Typical topics include:

The operation of logic gates AND,NAND,OR,NOR,XOR.

The use of truth tables and logic gates to solve combinational logic problems.

Boolean algebra and the use of Boolean algebra to simplify logic expressions prior to implementation.




Through a combination of individual exercises and group projects, you will gain both technical and collaborative skills essential for your studies and future career.

How will I learn on this module?

This module is delivered through interactive lectures and workshop sessions designed to help you grasp the fundamentals of the programming language and digital electronics. Learning materials will be made available through Blackboard, enabling you to study at your own pace and access online resources that complement the lectures and lab sessions.

Within lectures, practical examples and analysis will be explored, and you will be expected to actively participate in these sessions. Some of these sessions may involve tutor lead Q+A sessions and student to student explanation and response at the front of class.
In addition, the students will be encouraged to research the subject through the directed learning, reading list and topic links. This will broaden students’ knowledge around the current theory, techniques and standards and the hence the future development in communications and enhance students’ experience for future employment

The practical skills developed during lab sessions will equip you to write programs that address engineering problems effectively. You will be working in small teams to solve typical satellite engineering problems. By working in groups, you will gain practical experience in both technical and transferable skills.

To support your learning, the module incorporates Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL), including recorded lectures and supplementary instructional videos to reinforce key concepts and aid independent study.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Academic staff will be available during lectures and workshop sessions each week to answer your questions, providing a key source of feedback on your performance in a practical context. Additionally, formative multiple-choice question (MCQ) sessions may be conducted during lecture slots to help you gauge your understanding of the material. These sessions serve as another form of feedback, allowing lecturers to identify topics where the group may need additional support and address them early on.

Feedback on assessed work will include written comments on your submitted assignments. If you encounter any challenges or need further clarification, you are encouraged to make use of the open-door policy, allowing you to visit lecturers for one-on-one support.

Blackboard will be extensively used to provide lecture and workshop materials, enabling self-paced learning and easy access to resources. Lecturers are also available in their offices for additional support, reinforcing the open-door approach to student assistance.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:

Understand the fundamental theory and operating principles of computer programming and digital electronics (AHEP4: C1)





Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

Design practical software programs to deliver specific functions. (AHEP4: C1, C3, C12, C14)

Produce a design methodology for the design of digital systems. This will be assessed in the coursework. (AHEP4, C5)





Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

Work effectively as part of a team, recognising the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion. (AHEP 4 C8, C11, C16)

Communicate technical and non-technical information about your project by written report and oral presentation (AHEP4 C17)

How will I be assessed?

This module is assessed by two assessments, each worth 50%.


The first assessment is an individual lab-based coursework assignment, which involves testing, assessing and understanding of the underlying theories and problem-solving requirements of digital electronics. This assesses MLO1, MLO3 and MLO5.


The second assessment will be a group-based project based on designing a program for a microcontroller. You will be assessed by a group presentation.

This assesses MLO1, MLO2, MLO4 and MLO5.


Formative feedback will be provided during laboratory sessions, and in-class exercise sessions in an interactive manner, engaging students in active learning. Individual feedback on assignments will be made available via Blackboard, allowing students to access feedback specific to their submissions.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

On completion of this module, you will have strengthened your ability to understand basic building blocks in digital electronics and communications for your future career aspirations. This module introduces you to the fundamental principles of computer programming and digital electronics and their application in satellite engineering. Both of these subjects are essential fundamentals in satellite engineering.In the computing part of the module you will learn how programming is used to control hardware, such as in satellite on-board computers and embedded controllers. Typical topics will include:



Develop an understanding of the basic principles of computer programming.

Build problem-solving and programming skills through practical exercises and projects tailored to your learning needs.

Gain insight into how embedded systems operate and their relevance in engineering contexts.

Learn to write, test, and debug simple programs for embedded systems.





You will also learn digital electronics will allow you to analyse and design of combinational and sequential logic circuits. Typical topics include:

The operation of logic gates AND,NAND,OR,NOR,XOR.

The use of truth tables and logic gates to solve combinational logic problems.

Boolean algebra and the use of Boolean algebra to simplify logic expressions prior to implementation.


Through a combination of individual exercises and group projects, you will gain both technical and collaborative skills essential for your studies and future career.

Course info

UCAS Code H655

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2026

Fee Information

Module Information

Study at Northumbria

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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