Internet of Things: An Introduction

Internet of Things: An Introduction is a short, university credit bearing course which provides a practical, interdisciplinary introduction to the Internet of Things and to the broader area of pervasive computing.

The concept of an 'Internet of Things' (which is often discussed within the framework of 'Pervasive' and 'Ubiquitous' forms of computing) relates to the development, deployment and operation of a broad spectrum of Internet connected devices which are able to communicate with applications, with each other, and with the environment.

The pervasive use of interconnected and intercommunicating sensory technologies offers great opportunities for business, for governmental agencies and for the individual. However, there are a number of ongoing challenges which include reliability, data handling, security and impact on personal privacy.

This course provides a practical, interdisciplinary introduction to the Internet of Things and to the broader area of Pervasive Computing.

A research-infused curriculum is adopted in this course and is reinforced by an expectation that you will regularly contribute to the virtual classroom's Discussion Forum. This will provide opportunities to consider diverse cutting-edge issues - thereby supporting you in the acquisition of a broad range of highly transferable skills.

As a part of the assessment for this course, you will have the opportunity to carry out a design and construction exercise in which you will develop and programme one or more Internet connected devices (usually based on the Arduino or Raspberry Pi technologies). Alternatively you will undertake a research-informed case study involving research into specific topics.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, you will be able to:

1. Demonstrate competence in understanding the principles, techniques, protocols and technologies which underpin the Internet of Things
2. Critically appraise the strengths and weaknesses of the concepts and potential social and ethical ramifications of the Internet of Things and of Pervasive Computing in general
3. Critically evaluate the benefits which the Internet of Things and Pervasive Computing offer in advancing indicative areas of application

Course content

Indicative topics:

• Pervasive Computing and the Internet of Things
• Hardware and software considerations
• Sensor and actuator technologies
• Exemplar devices
• Communication techniques and protocols
• RFID devices
• Power sources and reliability
• Data bandwidth issues
• Wireless sensor networks
• Security issues
• Exemplar case studies - Internet of Things in commerce, employment, environment, and m-Health
• Ethical issues
• Current and future research, developments and trends

• Shahadat Al-Thanawaya Al-Aama
• Students with an overall score of 60% would usually be eligible for the International Foundation Year
• UKVI IELTS 4.5 with a minimum of 4.0 in all components (CEFR B1) is also required

• If you are studying and completing any internationally recognised qualification such as A-levels; International Baccalaureate (IB) or the American Curricula from the International Schools within Jordan, then you can begin from the first year of a Bachelors degree. Please see individual course pages for specific entry requirements
• If you have completed a recognised international foundation programme with good grades
• Advanced entry to year 2 or 3 may be possible. You will need to supply detailed information including courses taken, grades achieved, syllabus and a grading guide