FIT1045 · Software development 1: Programming foundations

Overview

Programming is not just about writing code; it is about learning how to turn ideas and problems into clear, reliable instructions that a computer can execute. This unit introduces programming through computational thinking, algorithm design, and structured program development, helping you build the foundations needed to design, explain, implement and improve small programs. You will learn core programming concepts including data representation, variables, control flow, arrays, functions, modularity, built-in and custom types, and the use of basic libraries. Through hands-on programming activities, you will practise designing program structures, communicating algorithms, testing and debugging code, and understanding how programs execute within computing environments. The unit emphasises good programming practice, readable code, structured problem solving, and the development of confidence through creation, exploration and reflection. You will also learn to engage responsibly with AI-enabled learning and coding tools as part of modern programming practice. This includes using AI tools to support learning and development while checking their outputs, acknowledging their contributions, and continuing to build your own independent programming capability.

Areas of study: Business analytics Computer networks and security Computer science Computational science Cybersecurity Data science Mobile apps development Software engineering Web development

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Use systems thinking to design and explain how a program is structured and functions, including the organisation of data, functionality, control flow, program state, scope, data relationships and execution;
2. Implement programs using sequence, selection and iteration, arrays, functions, object-based or custom types, libraries, development environments and command-line compilers, and explain how the resulting code works;
3. Demonstrate hand execution of code to explain how the computer evaluates instructions, follows control flow, uses memory, and changes program state during execution;
4. Apply disciplined coding practices to develop, test, debug, document and improve readable, maintainable and well-structured programs;
5. Plan, monitor and reflect on your learning with focus, care and attention to detail, using AI-enabled learning tools responsibly to support understanding, check explanations, strengthen terminology, and build independent programming capability.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled online and face to face learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated reading and preparation for scheduled teaching activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.