MA0276: Visual Basic Programming for OR
| School | Cardiff School of Mathematics |
| Department Code | MATHS |
| Module Code | MA0276 |
| External Subject Code | I320 |
| Number of Credits | 10 |
| Level | L5 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Professor Rhydian Lewis |
| Semester | Spring Semester |
| Academic Year | 2015/6 |
Outline Description of Module
This module assumes knowledge of the basic concepts of spreadsheets and how they can be used to manipulate information. It then builds on this to cover the automation of tasks using macros and the use of Visual Basic programming within Microsoft Excel, thus enabling the construction of customised, user-friendly interfaces for a spreadsheet. A variety of Operational Research problems are used as the basis for this module, although no prior knowledge of OR is required.
Topics covered include simulation, logical programming ideas, algorithm design and debugging. This module can be taken successfully by any student who is prepared to learn the basics of computer programming, and who wishes to learn some practical problem solving skills which may be of benefit in future employment.
Prerequisite Modules: MA1003 Computing for Mathematics
On completion of the module a student should be able to
- demonstrate competence in using a professional spreadsheet
- record a macro and edit code
- understand the logical concepts required in programming.
- produce user-friendly Visual Basic programs which will solve a variety of OR problems
- adopt a problem solving frame of mind, and thus be able to build a model and then solving or manipulating it.
- solve a variety of real life problems using Visual Basic.
- understand basic algorithmic concepts
How the module will be delivered
11 - 50 minute lectures
11 - 50 minute (computer lab) tutorial classes
Emphasis is placed on providing opportunities for students to implement, via computer classes, the ideas and concepts presented during lectures.
Some handouts will be provided in hard copy or via Learning Central, but students will be expected to take notes of lectures.
Skills that will be practised and developed
Skills:
Problem formulation and solving. Computer programming.
Transferable Skills:
General computer skills. Design of Algorithms. Computer programming. Debugging skills.
How the module will be assessed
Formative assessment is carried out by means of regular exercises in computer classes. Feedback to students on their solutions and their progress towards learning outcomes is provided during these classes.
Summative assessment is by coursework which consists of two major projects. These will be completed prior to the examination period. These projects will be of a practical nature and will involve spreadsheets, computer programming and problem forming. Marks will also be allocated for both the user-friendliness and the presentation of the work.
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Assessment | 40 | Coursework 1 | N/A |
| Written Assessment | 60 | Coursework 2 | N/A |
Syllabus content
- Review the use of spreadsheets for input of data, formulas and graphical display.
- Introduce the use of module sheets and macros to customise spreadsheets for a variety of applications.
- Describe the basic concepts of programming such as variables, control of flow, loops, functions, and arrays.
- Introduction of various ideas for problem solving, including simple exact and approxiamte algorithms (such as heuristics).
- Demonstrate how Visual Basic programs can be made user-friendly and professionally presented.
- Present a variety of Operational Research problems, and appreciate how they can be solved using Excel and Visual Basic.
Essential Reading and Resource List
Not applicable.
Background Reading and Resource List
Using Excel Visual Basic for applications, Boonin, E., Indianapolis