Courses in Computer Science, Roskilde University

CN: Computers and Networks (preliminary course description)

The purpose of this course is to provide you with a basic understanding of how computers do what they do. By studying the fundamental organizing principles of computer systems, you are better able to understand, design, and implement complex systems. Upon successful completion of this course, the computer will no longer seem a Òblack boxÓ to you. The course provides knowledge of computer organization and architecture. Fundamentals of computer networking and data communication will also be provided. The main objectives of this course are the understanding of the major components of a computer system, how these components are interrelated, and their characteristics that affect system performance. The topics covered include computer organization and architecture, data representation, digital logic, assembly language programming, memory systems, input/output systems, system software, network protocols, and network organization. At the completion of the course, the students will be able to:

• Understand basic computer architecture and demonstrate use of the associated vocabulary.
• Explain the organization of a computer as levels of virtual machines.
• Describe the operation of the CPU and explain how it is used to execute instructions.
• Write simple assembly language programs.
• Demonstrate knowledge of memory and I/O.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the basics of operating systems software.
• Discuss network architecture standards.
• Describe ISO reference and Internet models.