Modules Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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modules
[ˈmɒdjuːlz ]
Definitions
software development
Modules are independent units of software that can be used in different parts of a program. They help in organizing code, improving reusability, and maintaining separation of concerns.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| modules |
Typically used in programming and software development to refer to a self-contained piece of code that forms part of a larger system. Useful when discussing distinct sections of a program that handle specific tasks.
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| components |
Often used in a software and hardware context to describe a part of a larger system. In software, components are usually reusable pieces of code that provide a specific functionality. In hardware, they refer to physical parts of a system.
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| units |
Typically refers to individual, self-contained sections of code, often used in the context of testing (unit testing) in programming. Can also be used more broadly to describe a single component of a larger system.
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| packages |
Commonly used in programming, particularly in languages like Python or Java, to describe a collection of related modules or libraries bundled together. Packages make distribution and dependency management easier.
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Examples of usage
- Importing modules in Python allows you to use pre-written code for specific functionalities.
- A Node.js application can be divided into different modules for better code structure.
education
In education, modules refer to separate units of study that form part of a course or program. They are designed to cover specific topics or skills.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| modules |
Can also refer to self-contained units of software that have a specific function within a larger system.
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| units |
Often used in educational contexts to refer to a segment of a curriculum that encompasses a specific theme or topic. Units are similar to modules but can be smaller in scope.
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| lessons |
Refers to individual teaching sessions or parts of a course, often delivered by a teacher. Lessons can be part of a larger module or curriculum.
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| sections |
Used to denote subdivisions within a larger document, book, or course. A section is typically larger than a lesson but smaller than a module.
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Examples of usage
- The online course is divided into several modules, each focusing on a different aspect of web development.
- Students can complete one module at a time before moving on to the next.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- In modern education, modular learning allows students to customize their curriculum, improving engagement and knowledge retention.
- Many universities now offer modular courses, enabling a more flexible approach to higher education, suitable for diverse learning styles.
- The modular system can lead to fewer subjects being taught in depth, as focus is often divided across many modules.
Technology
- In software engineering, modular programming helps with maintenance and updates since individual parts can be modified without affecting the whole system.
- The growing trend of modular design in technology promotes sustainability, as broken components can simply be replaced instead of discarding entire products.
- Modular smartphones, like Google's Project Ara, aim to let users swap out components, thus personalizing and extending the device's lifespan.
Pop Culture
- The concept of modules is often seen in video games, where different quests or challenges can be tackled independently or together.
- In popular television series, some shows are structured in modules, including stand-alone episodes that fit into a larger narrative.
- DIY and crafting communities embrace modular concepts, creating projects that can be customized and expanded, showcasing creativity.
Origin of 'modules'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'modulus,' meaning 'small measure,' emphasizing how each module can represent a part of a larger system.
- The term became popular in educational contexts in the 1970s, reflecting the shift towards modular learning where students can choose different courses.
- In computing, it refers to self-contained units of software that can function independently, but can also work together.
The term 'modules' originated in the field of mathematics in the 19th century, referring to independent components that can be studied separately. It later expanded to computer science and education, where it is commonly used today to denote separate units or components.