SDA-1 Programming and Frontend Development
SDA-1 Programming and Frontend Development
- Course description
- Course CodeSDA-1
- Level of Study5.1
- Program of StudySoftware Development with AI
- Credits20
- Study Plan CoordinatorMonde Sineke
This course introduces students to programming and frontend web development. Students start with the tools developers use every day, including the command line, a code editor and version control, and learn programming fundamentals through problem solving, computational thinking and debugging. The course covers web technologies, browser-server communication, and the development of responsive web interfaces using HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Accessibility and usability are integrated throughout, so that interfaces work for all users, including people with disabilities.
AI is introduced progressively. Students learn to critically evaluate AI-generated explanations and code suggestions, verify information against reliable technical documentation, and apply debugging and testing techniques to ensure code quality and correctness. The course emphasises responsible AI use, independent problem-solving and accountability for submitted work.
The candidate...
- has knowledge of programming concepts, how browsers and web servers communicate, and the tools used in web development, including version control and the command line
- has insight into accessibility and usability requirements for web interfaces, including universal design
The candidate...
- can apply programming fundamentals and computational thinking to break down a problem, write a working program that solves it, and explain how their own code works
- can apply markup, styling and scripting techniques to build a responsive and accessible web interface
- can apply version control to manage code, track changes and follow basic collaborative development practices
- can find technical documentation and other reliable information relevant to a programming problem, and check explanations from AI against it
- can assess a program that does not behave as expected, identify the cause through debugging and testing, and determine what changes need to be made
- can assess code suggestions from an AI coding assistant, identify errors and weaknesses, and determine what changes are needed when using them in their own work
The candidate...
- has developed an ethical attitude to their own work, and takes responsibility for understanding all code they submit, including parts suggested by AI
- can carry out frontend development work based on the needs of selected users, including users with disabilities
Students use a combination of written content, videos and practical learning activities designed to help them achieve the course learning outcomes.
Industry Relevance
Course content, learning activities and tools reflect industry standards and are developed in collaboration with industry partners and experts from the field.
Practical Work
The course includes regular practical activities where students apply their knowledge and practise relevant skills.
Collaboration
Collaboration is facilitated through the LMS and Teams, and students are encouraged to work together for peer support and shared learning.
Guidance
Teachers are available for guidance at scheduled times. Students are encouraged to share work in progress and use feedback from teachers and fellow students to develop their work further.
Coursework Requirements
This course has 2 coursework requirements, graded Approved / Not Approved.
| Form of assessment | Grading scale | Grouping | Duration of assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
Course Assignment | Pass / Fail | Individual | 2 Week(s) |