CSMCC16-Cloud Computing

Module Provider: Computer Science
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:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: atta.badii@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module covers the topic of cloud computing.

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 provides an insight into the data-centric and service-centric techniques deployed in very large scale robust distributed systems such as those that support the world's largest and most popular websites. The module covers Cloud computing (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, Al-as-a-S), 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 an overview of the hardware and software technologies underpinning supercomputing. The module also addresses the business confidentiality, socio-legal, security and privacy and trust issues involved in operating and using cloud services and highlights the need to consider the security and privacy requirements and respective risks associated with the various types of cloud services and the design approaches adopted in the distribute systems that support such services.  In this context an overview of the distributed ledger technologies is provided as trusted consensus networks of distributed value and information systems. 

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 whilst being also mindful of the respective security–privacy risks associated with each type of cloud services deployment and distributed systems architecture.

Outline content:

• Introduction to distributed and parallel computing; Cloud Computing (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, AI-as-a-S);


• Cloud Computing middleware;


• Map/Reduce; RESTful systems.


• Distributed Ledger Technologies and Applications

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.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

1.5 hours.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

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

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall. 

Reassessment arrangements:

One examination paper of 2 hours duration in August/September - the resit module mark will be the higher of the exam mark (100% exam) and the exam mark plus previous coursework marks (50% exam, 50% coursework).

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: 10 April 2019