Computing fundamentals 1: concepts and Python programming
Qualification dates
Start
End
03 Apr 2027
Sept 2027
This is the first of two computer science modules introducing fundamental computing concepts and equipping you with a comprehensive toolbox of relevant knowledge, understanding and skills. While building confidence in your mathematics capabilities, you’ll learn about various computing technologies, including basic computer hardware and software. You’ll develop problem-solving skills as you get familiar with Python programming, analyse real-world data and conduct a programming project. You’ll also develop employability and key skills and start to explore the legal, social and ethical challenges of computing technologies. On completion, you’ll have a firm foundation for further study.
What you will study
This module comprises three themes:
Theme 1: Problem-solving with Python
This theme introduces programming, algorithmic thinking, and problem-solving. You’ll work with the Python programming language, undertaking hands-on activities to progressively build your skills and confidence. You'll also be introduced to various problem-solving strategies, which you’ll practise as part of your project.
You’ll:
learn to programme using Python
analyse real-world data with Python
complete a small programming project.
Theme 2: Building mathematical foundations
The second theme builds essential mathematical skills. These skills support the programming and problem-solving activities and provide a foundation for the maths concepts and techniques you’ll meet in other modules.
You’ll:
learn to use key techniques in mathematics, including some basic algebra
learn about maths techniques that underpin computing
learn to use mathematical vocabulary and notation.
Theme 3: Essential topics in computing
Theme 3 covers key topics essential for a broad understanding of computing and computer science-related subjects.
You’ll:
be introduced to a broad range of digital technologies
learn how computers store and process data
learn about the hardware and software components of a computer
learn about specialist topics, such as artificial intelligence
and more.
The themes are interleaved, so while you’ll focus on one theme each week, you’ll focus on a different theme each week. Moving between themes allows you to revisit and strengthen your understanding of the concepts and skills of each theme over the course of the module, as problem-solving and programming skills especially require continued practice to develop.
In addition to the subject-specific knowledge and skills you’ll gain, you’ll develop study skills essential for this module and later ones. Plus, employability skills to help you plan and manage your personal and professional development.
Entry requirements
You need no previous programming experience for this module, but you need to be interested in using a computer for problem-solving and learning how to program.
To help assess whether you have the appropriate skills for this module, you can try this quiz. Are you ready for TM110?
For the duration of the module (21 weeks), you should expect to spend about 11 hours each week working on the module and its assessment and a further three hours each week on self-directed study.
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)
A one-to-one online discussion with your tutor forms part of your second assignment (TMA).
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.
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 TM110 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
Computing fundamentals 1: concepts and Python programming (TM110) starts twice a year – in October and April.
It will next start in April 2027.
We expect it to start for the last time in April 2032.