Description
This module develops a critical understanding of software development practices which can be used to develop applications for a range of mobile devices. Students will develop and evaluate the techniques used to implement mobile applications.
Aims
The aim of this module is to provide the student with: the ability to design, develop and critically evaluate software for the mobile platform.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module the student should be able to:
1. Design and implement mobile software incorporating appropriate UI design for multi-device applications using native frameworks and libraries;
2. Discuss the devices, designs and languages relevant to mobile operating systems;
3. Use network programming constructs including sockets and protocols to include security, location and privacy functionality in mobile applications;
4. Critically appraise usability and accessibility in mobile applications, identifying and exemplifying good practice.
Indicative Content
1 Background to Smart and Mobile Development:
Challenges and limitations in developing for mobile devices. Development strategies, emulators and development environments. Use of the application abstraction to allow easier development.
2 User Interfaces:
Development of interfaces for user-interaction including UI controls (buttons, forms) and underlying hardware controls (key presses, touch screen). Basic control of a mobile device using the high-level user interface. Use of commands and forms to gain data from the client. Use of low-level features to display data to the user. Use of key presses to control real-time application.
3 Storage:
Consideration of storage requirements for mobile devices. Saving and retrieving local and remote storage. Overview of database design. Use of remote databases, and how to use server-side databases in an internet application.
4 Location awareness
Utilising the network location capabilities of mobile devices to develop feature rich applications.
5 Telephony and SMS
Understanding the telephony and SMS stack on the mobile device and the use of API’s required for their access and control.
6 Communication Networks
Using short and long-distance networks for communication and understanding of the limitations and benefits of each.
7 Security
Consider the security implications of mobile and smart platforms, how these can be exploited and development considerations to improve resilience.
8 Performance
Methods for testing the functionality and performance of applications on mobile devices.
9 Mobile Web Application Development
Explore and evaluate a range of mobile solution options from response design, Firebase-, and JavaScript-based applications.
Teaching and Learning Work Loads
| Teaching and Learning Method | Hours |
| Lecture | 12 |
| Tutorial/Seminar | 9 |
| Practical Activity | 26 |
| Assessment | 80 |
| Independent | 73 |
| Total | 200 |
Guidance notes
SCQF Level - The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.
Credit Value – The total value of SCQF credits for the module. 20 credits are the equivalent of 10 ECTS credits. A full-time student should normally register for 60 SCQF credits per semester.
Disclaimer
We make every effort to ensure that the information on our website is accurate but it is possible that some changes may occur prior to the academic year of entry. The modules listed in this catalogue are offered subject to availability during academic year 2021/22 , and may be subject to change for future years.
