CAB203 Discrete Structures

Unit Outline: Semester 1 2024, Gardens Point, Internal

Overview

In trying to solve complex problems, a powerful approach is to transform the problem into a simpler model by abstracting away some of the less important details. Once in this more abstract form, powerful mathematical techniques (developed over centuries) can be brought to bear. For computing related problems, the most relevant mathematical concepts and techniques come from the field of discrete mathematics, and include arithmetic, logic, set theory, graph theory and functions. This unit demonstrates how these mathematical concepts and techniques can be used to model and solve real-world problems.

The unit also supports subsequent units: CAB301 where algorithms involving graphs are introduced and CAB402 where the mathematical notion of a function provides the basis for alternative programming paradigms.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Discuss of a variety of mathematical structures, methods, concepts, and abstractly defined problems and solutions applicable to computer science
2. Create rigorous models of problems in computer science and from the real world using mathematical concepts and structures
3. Implement mathematical structures and methods using a programming language
4. Communicate precisely about computers and real world problems using rigorous mathematical symbols, definitions, and language
5. Apply mathematical techniques to solve problems from computer science and the real world

Content

Learning Approaches

This unit is available for you to study in either on-campus or online mode. You can expect to spend 10 hours per week involved in preparing for and attending scheduled classes, preparing and completing assessment tasks as well as independent study and consolidation of your learning.

Pre-recorded lectures will introduce concepts and methods with hands on practice applying these during tutorials. You will progressively develop your knowledge and skills through weekly online quizzes and problem sets of increasing complexity (in tutorial practice and assessments) with opportunity for peer and tutor discussion and feedback. Multiple assessments (theory and application) are important for you to practice, get feedback and extend your knowledge of computer principles and their application to formal (mathematical) modelling and critical reasoning. The unit is organised into three modules to assist progressive learning, feedback and development.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

You will receive feedback in this unit through:        

• Immediate feedback on concept understanding through weekly formative quizzes
• Formative oral feedback individually and as a group on your progress in class while working on applied exercises during tutorials
• Individual written feedback on the Discrete Structures Project and Problem Solving in Selected Topics assessment items

Assessment

Overview

You will have three assignments, one for each module.  These assignments are designed to test your knowledge of the unit content, your ability to apply it to real world problems, and your ability to communicate about these problems in a written form.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Mathematical foundations quiz

This quiz consists of multiple choice and short answer questions testing your knowledge and skill with mathematical concepts introduced in module 1.

This is an assignment for the purposes of an extension.

Assessment: Discrete Structures Project

You will be presented with a scenario in which you will need to model and solve real world problems using techniques from modules 1 and 2.  Your solution will include a report detailing your models and solution methods, and an implementation of your solutions in Python.

This is an assignment for the purposes of an extension.

Assessment: Problem Solving

You will be presented with short scenarios in which you will need to model and solve real world problems using techniques from module 3.  Your solution will include a report detailing your models and solution methods, and an implementation of your solutions in Python.

This is an assignment for the purposes of an extension.

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to engage in learning and assessment at QUT with honesty, transparency and fairness. Maintaining academic integrity means upholding these principles and demonstrating valuable professional capabilities based on ethical foundations.

Failure to maintain academic integrity can take many forms. It includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, and submitting an assessment item completed by another person (e.g. contract cheating). It can also include providing your assessment to another entity, such as to a person or website.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Further details of QUT’s approach to academic integrity are outlined in the Academic integrity policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Breaching QUT’s Academic integrity policy is regarded as student misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Resources

Risk Assessment Statement

There are no unusual hazards or risks associated with this unit.

Course Learning Outcomes

IN01 Bachelor of Information Technology

1. Demonstrate well-developed IT discipline knowledge
   Relates to: ULO1
2. Critically apply design and problem solving skills
   Relates to: ULO2
3. Purposefully appraise personal values, attitudes and performance in your continuing professional development
   Relates to: ULO3
4. Communicate effectively in professional contexts
   Relates to: ULO4
5. Create considered and relevant IT solutions
   Relates to: ULO5