CSMCC16-Cloud Computing

Module Provider: School of Mathematical, Physical and Computational Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: SEMCC13 Cloud Computing
Module version for: 2016/7

Email: g.difatta@reading.ac.uk

Summary module description:

Aims:
The massively increased uptake of computing in the last decade, with devices at all scales of operation, has driven the development of large-scale distributed systems capable of meeting the demands placed on service providers. This module gives an insight into the techniques used for producing very large scale robust distributed systems such as those used to drive the world's largest and most popular websites. The module covers Cloud computing (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), techniques for processing big data (Map/Reduce), large-scale systems architectures (RESTful systems and an architectural analysis of the Web as a whole), distributed systems utilising message passing (MPI and Erlang), methods for producing robustness in distributed applications, and come of the hardware and software technologies used in supercomputing.

Assessable learning outcomes:
It is expected that students will acquire an integrated perspective on the computing processes in Cloud computing platforms. In general students are expected to acquire skills in distributed and parallel computing

Additional outcomes:
The students will become familiar with the advantages and the potential applications of Cloud computing. They will also learn how to develop and deploy applications in cloud computing platforms.

Outline content:

• Introduction to distributed and parallel computing
• Cloud Computing (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)
• Cloud Computing middleware
• Map/Reduce
• RESTful systems

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module comprises lectures (20 hours), practical sessions (10 hours) and a major coursework. The lectures introduce basic concepts, methodologies and middleware for Cloud Computing. During the practical sessions the students will carry out hands-on activities on Cloud computing middleware. A final project allows the students to apply the concepts to a practical case.

Other information on summative assessment:

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Length of examination:
1.5 hours

Requirements for a pass:
50% overall module mark

Reassessment arrangements:
Resit by examination

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
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: 4 January 2017