Introduction to computing and information technology 2
Qualification dates
Start
End
03 Apr 2027
Sept 2027
This module builds on Introduction to computing and information technology 1 (TM111) and prepares you for further study of computing and IT modules. You’ll learn about various information technologies – including basic computer architecture, the cloud and mobile computing – while training your numerical skills. You’ll develop problem-solving skills as you get familiar with the Python programming language, analyse real-world data and conduct a programming project. Throughout, you’ll practise your communication and analytical skills as you explore the profound legal, social, ethical and security challenges that information technologies pose.
What you will study
This module consists of three themes:
Theme 1: Essential information technologies
You’ll learn, among other things, about:
how computers store and process data – and why they use binary
the hardware components of your computer
different types of cloud
the parts of a mobile device, from sensors to batteries
how to use latitude and longitude to look up locations on online maps
what happens under the bonnet when you delete a file on your computer.
You’ll also develop your numeracy skills – from using scientific notation and percentages to calculating with binary representations.
Theme 2: Problem solving with Python
You will:
learn to use the Python programming language
analyse, with Python, health and well-being data from the Office for National Statistics
complete a small programming project.
You’ll also be introduced to various problem-solving strategies, which you’ll practise as part of your project.
Theme 3: Information technologies in the wild
You’ll study:
how hackers pose a threat beyond the digital world
how you can secure your data
how the Internet is enabling crime, surveillance, and digital freedom.
You’ll also develop your analytical and communication skills – including collecting and using evidence to argue a point.
Each theme consists of parts – you’ll study one part per week. The themes are interleaved throughout the module. So, you may study a part on ‘Essential information technologies’ in one week, another part on, say, ‘Problem solving with Python’ in the next week, and another part on ‘Essential information technologies’ the following week. This allows you to revisit and strengthen your understanding of the concepts and skills of each theme throughout the module. Problem-solving and programming skills, especially, can’t be learned in a few weeks; they require continued practice throughout the module.
Entry requirements
You’ll need knowledge of digital technologies and networking, and skills in programming, algorithmic thinking, digital information literacy and communication.
You’ll be prepared if you’ve passed Introduction to computing and technology 1 (TM111). If you’ve not received your result, review your scores on TMA01 and TMA02; we recommend proceeding only if you’ve scored 40% or more on each.
Are you ready for TM112?
Teaching and assessment
Support from your tutor
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
marking your assignments and offering detailed feedback to help you improve
providing individual guidance, whether that’s for general study skills or specific module content
guiding you to additional learning resources
facilitating online discussions between your fellow students in the dedicated forums.
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Assessment
Course work includes:
3 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs)
What's included
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
a week-by-week study planner
course-specific module materials
audio and video content
assessment details and submission section
online tutorial access
access to student forums.
Additionally, the website includes:
software resources
interactive online activities
practice quizzes.
We also provide physical:
module books.
Computing requirements
Primary device – A desktop or laptop computer with at least 8 GB of RAM and a quad-core processor (2.4 GHz minimum speed). It’s possible to access some materials on a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook; however, they will not be suitable as your primary device.
Peripheral device – Headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone for online tutorials.
Operating systems – Windows 11 or the latest supported macOS.
Internet access – Broadband or mobile connection.
Browser – Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are recommended; Mozilla Firefox and Safari may be suitable.
Our OU Study app operates on supported versions of Android and iOS.
Software – Any additional software will be provided or is generally available for free.
If you have a disability
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying TM112 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.
Future availability
Introduction to computing and information technology 2 (TM112) starts twice a year – in October and April.
It will next start in April 2027.
It will be replaced with Computing fundamentals 2: programming, databases, software engineering (TM113) after October 2027.