Module 19341 (2012)

Module Description - Introduction to Natural Computation

The Module Description is a strict subset of the Syllabus Page, which gives more information

Module TitleIntroduction to Natural Computation
SchoolComputer Science
Module Code06-19341
DescriptorCOMP/06-19341/LI
Member of StaffXin Yao
LevelI
Credits10
Semester1
Pre-requisitesNone
Co-requisitesNone
RestrictionsNone
Contact hours24
Delivery2 hours of lectures per week
Description Natural computation is the study of systems in nature that lend themselves to a computational interpretation. This module provides an introduction to the field, emphasising common themes, principles and techniques. It lays the foundations for further advanced study of specific areas (such as neural networks and evolutionary algorithms).
Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, the student should be able to:Assessed by:
explain and illustrate the key concepts of: de-centralisation, interaction, self-organisation, emergence Examination
describe the common principles underlying a range of natural computation techniques Examination
compare and contrast natural systems with their computational counterparts Examination
show how natural computation techniques can be adapted to solving learning and optimisation problems Examination
analyse the behaviour of natural computation systems Examination, continuous assessment
AssessmentSessional: 1.5 hour examination (70%), continuous assessment (30%).
Supplementary (where allowed): 1.5 hour examination (100%).
TextsKevin Gurney, An Introduction to Neural Networks, 1997
Melanie Mitchell, An Introduction to Genetic Algorithms, 2001
James Kennedy & Russell Eberhart, Swarm Intelligence, 2001
Christopher Langton, Artificial Life: an overview, 1995
S. Kumar & P. Bentley, On Growth, Form and Computers, 2003
S. Camazine, J. Deneubourg, N. Franks, J. Sneyd, G. Theraulaz & E. Bonabeau, Self-Organization in Biological Systems, 2001