Coursework

Published

January 13, 2025

This page gives an overview of the work you will do during the course.

Theory assignments

The theory assignments test your understanding of the concepts, models and algorithms presented in the course.

The diagnostic quizzes help you check your understanding of the video lectures. Each quiz is a timed multiple-choice test that you complete on your own. To get credit, you must complete the quiz before its deadline and during a single attempt. There are six quizzes per unit, each worth up to 5 points.

The in-class assignments let you explore the course material in more depth together with your coursemates. You complete these assignments in small groups. To get credit, you must attend the teaching session when the assignment is given. There is one assignment per unit, worth up to 6 points.

Grading criteria

The theory assignments are graded as Pass or Fail. To pass, you need to score at least 24 points in each unit. You can retake quizzes for units where you need more points during the final week of the course.

Laboratory assignments

The laboratory assignments or “labs” train you in implementing and evaluating the models and algorithms presented in the course. You work on these assignments individually and can get help from the teachers.

The labs focus on the central concepts, models, and algorithms presented in the course. They come with step-by-step instructions and pre-written code. Each lab asks you to explain, modify or write code and to run and analyse experiments. There is one lab for each unit.

Lab portfolio

At the start of the course, you will create a Git repository to serve as your virtual portfolio for your work on the lab assignments. You will then use the portfolio throughout the course to collect:

  • The drafts and final versions of the labs you work on.
  • The feedback you receive from your tutor.
  • Your notes on how you used that feedback to improve your work.

You will upload your current lab to Lisam. Your teachers will review your lab and provide written feedback. If you need clarification or additional oral feedback, get in touch with the teachers via email or Teams. Make sure to add the written feedback and a summary of any additional feedback to your portfolio, along with a note on how you incorporated that feedback into your work.

Oral exam

In the final week of the course, you will take a 15-minute oral exam based on your portfolio. During the exam, you will present two tasks from the basic labs:

  • One from a list of tasks you propose when you register for the exam.
  • One task chosen by the examiner.

For each task, start with a brief explanation of the context and background, then explain your solution as you developed it during the lab. Highlight how you worked with the feedback from your tutor. You will have access to your portfolio on the examiner’s computer. Keep your presentation to 5 minutes per task.

Grading criteria

The laboratory assignments are graded as Pass or Fail. To pass, you must produce a portfolio and pass the oral exam. Your portfolio should:

  • Include completed versions of all labs. You should have worked on each task and be prepared to explain your process and results during the oral exam.

  • Clearly show how you incorporated feedback into your work. Include the written and oral feedback provided by your teachers for each lab, along with notes on how you applied that feedback.

  • Demonstrate a professional level of effort. This means using academic language, appropriate terminology and ensuring your writing is clear and free of grammar mistakes.