ICT

Introduction to Computing and Programming

A hands-on, video-led foundation in computer systems and structured C programming for mechatronics technicians. Learn to design, write, compile and debug real C programs in an intensive three-week…

Level 3 17 Lessons 6 Quizzes 3 Hours +

About This Course

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of computer systems and programming using the C programming language. It covers computer system components, the program development cycle, logic structures, pseudocode, flowcharts and modular programming. Students write, compile and debug C programs — from the classic “Hello World” to programs that use variables, control structures, arrays, pointers, functions and complex data structures such as linked lists.

The aim is to give students a solid foundation in computer systems and C programming, enabling them to write structured, modular programs, apply control structures, manipulate data structures and follow best practices in program design within an intensive 3-week timeframe. By the end of the course a student can explain how a computer works, build well-structured C programs and apply good engineering discipline to their code.

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What Will You Learn?

Course Content

Module 1

Computer Systems and Programming Basics

Understand the computer and how programs are built. This module covers computer system components, the program-development cycle with pseudocode and flowcharts, and writing, compiling and debugging your first C program — with the good design practices that separate clean code from spaghetti code.

What's included
3 Videos 1 Reading 1 Graded Test
Module 2

Variables, Arithmetic, and Control Structures

Give your programs logic and decisions. You will declare variables and constants, perform arithmetic, and use selection (if-else, switch) and repetition (while, for) with relational and Boolean operators — writing modular C programs that make decisions and repeat tasks.

What's included
4 Videos 1 Graded Test
Module 3

Arrays, Pointers, and Functions

Work with data and structure your code. This module covers arrays and multidimensional arrays, C pointers, writing and modularising programs with functions, and manipulating complex data structures such as linked lists.

What's included
4 Videos 1 Graded Test
Module 4

Advanced Programming Concepts

Take C further. You will use structs as a precursor to object-oriented design, apply the three basic control structures, restructure unstructured code for readability, handle files, and complete projects such as a calculator or simple database.

What's included
3 Videos 1 Reading 1 Graded Test
Module 5

Consolidation and Assessment

Combine everything into real programs. This module has you write structured, modular programs that combine control structures and data structures, debug complex code, and complete a capstone such as an inventory or student-record system.

What's included
2 Videos 1 Graded Test
Module 6

Final Examination

What's included
1 Graded Test
Module 7

Resources & Further Reading

What's included
1 Reading
Module 8

Assignments

What's included
5 Assignments

Requirements

  • None — this is an introductory Level 3 course with no formal prerequisite.
  • Basic computer literacy (using a keyboard, mouse and files).
  • A computer with a C compiler such as GCC and an IDE such as Code::Blocks installed.

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