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Unit description
This unit has been designed to teach learners the fundamentals of scripting in the context of procedural paradigm irrespective of framework or delivery platform using Python as an example scripting language. The development of procedural code is still at the core of many embedded systems even when it comes to event driven systems and object oriented platforms.
This unit enables learners to become familiar with the underpinning concepts of scripting languages and assumes no prior knowledge of scripting. An introduction is given to the concepts of programming, particularly as contrasted with scripting. A scripting language is introduced and the basic sequence such as variables, conversions, expressions, statements and functions will be covered.
Following these basics, conditionals and iterations will be introduced to cover the basic structure of a procedural programming. For data storage, strings and files will be covered with particular focus on file manipulation – a common task in automation scripts.
Learners will use a structured approach to the design and development of scripting applications, ensuring the solution is well documented and thoroughly tested against the original user requirement.
This unit will set the stepping stone for the Embedded Systems unit which will guide learners through the basis of common system architectures, Operating Systems management, I/O interfaces and control.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this unit the student will be able to:
- Understand the features of a scripting language in context of procedural programming paradigm
- Use the tools and techniques of a scripting language to build console applications
- Design and develop console applications using a scripting language for a specific use
- Demonstrate the use of console applications using a scripting language for a specific use
