Units / FIT5217
FIT5217 · Natural language processing
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 5Faculty of Information Technology
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
Natural language processing (NLP) stands as a cornerstone in the information age, made even more riveting with the rise of Generative AI and the introduction of models like LLM. NLP not only supports artificial intelligence in grasping intricate language nuances but also heralds a range of innovative applications. This unit delves into the fundamental principles of NLP, covering essential techniques for analyzing language syntax and meaning. We will also explore the neural network underpinnings of contemporary language models in the context of important real-world problems such as Machine Translation. Furthermore, we'll delve into the theoretical and practical foundations of recent LLMs.
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton | First semester | Activities scheduled as a mix of on-campus and online activities (BLENDED) |
| Malaysia | First semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
| Suzhou (SEU) | Term 3 | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assignment 1 | Artefact | 25% | Threshold |
| 2 | Assignment 2 | Artefact | 25% | Threshold |
| 3 | Examination (2 hours and 10 minutes) | Examination | 50% | Threshold |
This unit has threshold mark hurdles. You must achieve at least 45% of the available marks in the final scheduled assessment, at least 45% in total for in-semester assessments, and an overall unit mark of 50% or more to be able to pass the unit. If you do not achieve the threshold mark, you will receive a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
prohibitions
- ITO5217 — Natural language processing
Learning outcomes
- organise core problems and applications in NLP;
- design systems to tackle NLP problems;
- Evaluation of NLP models from utility & ethics, and safety perspectives.
- assess various recent approaches to NLP.
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. Clayton campus - no Lab in week 1.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Seminars | 24 hours |
| Laboratories | 22 hours |
| Lectures | 24 hours |
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