Study information

Computer Graphics - 2024 entry

MODULE TITLEComputer Graphics CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEECM3423 MODULE CONVENERDr Sareh Rowlands (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 12 0
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) 50
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

Much of our interaction with computers is visual and animated.  This module introduces you to the modelling and programming of two- and three-dimensional visual scenes using a current graphics API. This module explores the trade-offs that must be made and the algorithms that are used for rendering scenes on graphics hardware.

Pre-requisites: ECM1410, ECM1416

AIMS - intentions of the module

The aim of this module is to give you a first-hand knowledge of the computer science of modern computer graphics. Specifically, the module will introduce you to the modelling and construction of two- and three-dimensional scenes using a modern graphics API.  It will introduce the fundamental ideas and algorithms used in the graphics pipeline for rendering scenes, as well as to straightforward animation techniques.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:


Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
1 Describe the hardware and software elements of a graphics system;
2 Demonstrate a knowledge of output primitives, attributes, object modelling and lighting, and apply them in the context of a particular graphics API;
3 Demonstrate a knowledge of the viewing and rendering pipeline, including the roles of geometrical transformations, raster conversion and clipping;
4 Describe the principal algorithms for two- and three-dimensional rendering on raster devices;
5 Use a graphics API for the production of computer graphics.
Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
6 Show an awareness of the effect of hardware constraints on software design;
7 Demonstrate good design and modelling skills.
Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:
8 Conduct independent study;
9 Use technical manuals and books to interpret specifications and technical errors.

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module
- introductory material: what is computer graphics? – hardware and software overview;
- graphics pipeline, output primitives, attributes, colour models, raster displays;
- scene building, clipping and viewing;
- geometrical transformations, homogeneous coordinates, perspective and parallel projections;
- parametric representations of lines, curves and surfaces;
- warping and morphing
- raster conversion: drawing lines, filling polygons, depth buffer algorithm;
- rendering: lighting models, camera placement, binocular vision, surface properties;
- animation: key frames, motion paths, kinematics.

 

LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 33 Guided Independent Study 117 Placement / Study Abroad 0
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled learning and teaching activities 22 Lectures
Scheduled learning and teaching activities 11 Workshops/tutorials
Guided independent study

50

 Coursework
Guided independent study 67 Reading, programming

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
Form of Assessment Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Weekly workshops 5 hours per week All except 8 In workshops

 

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 40 Written Exams 60 Practical Exams 0
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Written exam - closed book 60 2 hours - Summer Exam Period All except 5, 8 and 9 Oral, on request.
Project 40 50 hours All, particularly 5 Written feedback

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Original Form of Assessment Form of Re-assessment ILOs Re-assessed Time Scale for Re-reassessment
Written Exam Written exam (2 hours) All August Ref/Def Period
Project Project All August Ref/Def Period

 

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

Reassessment will be by coursework and/or written exam in the failed or deferred element only. For referred candidates, the module mark will be capped at 40%. For deferred candidates, the module mark will be uncapped.

RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener

ELE – http://vle.exeter.ac.uk

 

Other resources:

 

Reading list for this module:

Type Author Title Edition Publisher Year ISBN
Set Hearn, D, Baker, P Computer Graphics 2nd Prentice Hall 1997 978-0131615304
Extended Rowe, Glen Computer Graphics with Java Palgrave 2001
Extended Knudsen, Jonathan Java 2D Graphics O'Reilly 1999 1565924843
Extended Foley, van Dam, Feiner and Hughes Computer Graphics: Principles and Practice Addison-Wesley 1995
CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES ECM1410, ECM1416
CO-REQUISITE MODULES
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 6 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Tuesday 10th July 2018 LAST REVISION DATE Thursday 19th October 2023
KEY WORDS SEARCH None Defined

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.