MTMA33-Introduction to Computing

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: MTMG01 Introduction to Weather Systems
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Prof Bob Plant
Email: r.s.plant@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module introduces students to scientific computing for meteorological applications using the Python programming language.

Aims:

This module aims to give students the programming skills they need for simple data analysis, at the level they require for carrying out independent dissertation research.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module, students should be able to :

• Carry out a simple statistical analysis of time series data using the Python programming language;


• Read files containing multi-dimensional data and also write new files;


• Use functions and scripts to design re-useable programs;


• Display meteorological data using informative plots and provide simple interpretations of the results.

Additional outcomes:

Students will consolidate the knowledge they have gained in other modules

Outline content:

• Introducing the fundamental elements of programming, including variables, assign statements, arrays. Plotting one array against another.


• Performing calculations using loops and conditional statements.


• Writing functions and using them.


• Designing programmes to tackle meteorological applications.


• Reading large datasets from files in NetCDF format and more advanced manipulation of data.


• Coding for research.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The first half of the module combines short activities and lectures with computing laboratory sessions. The second half is a series of practical activities with a short introduction of the meteorological context.

Reading lists for meteorology modules are available here https://reading.rl.talis.com/departments/mps_met.htmlÌý Ìý .

Contact hours:

Ìý	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Practicals classes and workshops	30
Guided independent study:	70
Ìý	Ìý	Ìý	Ìý
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Ìý	Ìý	Ìý	Ìý
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Report	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Two assessed reports, each worth 50%.

Formative assessment methods:

A short programming assignment early in the module to enable students to get feedback on their progress and ensure that they have grasped the basics of python. Rapid feedback will be provided, prior to the first assessed report.

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to students on taught programmes except those on Postgraduate Flexible programmes. Penalties for late submission, and the associated procedures, which apply to Postgraduate Flexible programmes are specified in the policy 'Penalties for late submission for Postgraduate Flexible programmes', which can be found here: /cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmissionpgflexible.pdf
The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: /cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

For candidates who have failed, an opportunity to resubmit coursework will be provided within the lifetime of the course.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books:Ìý 2) Specialist equipment or materials: 3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 4) Printing and binding: 5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 30 March 2023