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  BTEC Higher National Diploma in Computing, Business IT and SE
 

The BTEC Higher National Diploma in Computing is an internationally recognised qualification and is validated, administered and verified by the BTEC/Edexcel. The BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) is equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree programme at a British University. This qualification is designed to equip students with the knowledge, understanding and skills required for success in current and future employment in Information Technology. This qualification falls in line with the British Computer Society (BCS) and Engineering Council requirements for accreditation and exemption from the BCS examination.

Duration of course: Two years full-time study.

Students must take: 9 CORE modules and 7 OPTION modules to qualify for an HND. .

5 CORE modules and 5 OPTION modules to qualify for an HNC. .

CORE MODULES: .

1 Computer Platforms
2 Systems Analysis
3 Software Constructs & Tools
4 Computing Solutions
5* Computer Implementation Project
6* Software Engineering Implementation Project
7* Business Information Technology Implementation Project
8 Quality Management Principles
9 Communication Technology
10*Advanced Computing Project#
11*Advanced Software Engineering Project#
12*Advanced Business Information Technology Project# * Select one from units 5,6 or 7 for HNC and one from units 10,11,or 12 for HND according to pathway
# The Advanced Project has a value of 2 To achieve Higher National Certificate/Diploma, students can follow three available pathways: OPTION MODULES COMPUTING SOFTWARE ENGINEERING 13 Networking 14 Data Analysis & Database Design 15 Visual Programming 16 Human Computer Interface 17 End User Support - 18 Introduction to Programming 19 Computer Architecture - 20 Database Management Systems 21 Computer Management - 22 Web Site Management - 23 Techniques of Artificial Intelligence 24 Object-Oriented Programming 25 Data Structures and Algorithms 26 Systems Software 27 Multimedia and Internet Development 28 Mathematics for Software Engineering 29 Software Engineering Techniques 30 Computer - Based Learning 31 Object-Oriented Development 32 Discrete Mathematics BUSINESS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 13 Networking 14 Data Analysis & Database Design 15 Visual Programming 16 Human Computer Interface 17 End User Support 18 Introduction to Programming 19 Computer Architecture 20 Database Management Systems 21 Computer Management 22 Web Site Management 23 Techniques of Artificial Intelligence 27 Multimedia and Internet Development 30 Computer - Based Learning 33 Business Applications Development 34 Management Science. Entry Qualifications
Students should normally be aged 18 years or over.
They must possess four GCE's or their equivalent qualification, or a BTEC first Diploma, plus a reasonable knowledge of the English language. Mature students (over 21 years of age) may be exempt from this requirement on grounds of experience.

Duration of Course
Each course lasts two years, a total of approximately 64 weeks.
There is normally only one intake of students a year, in September with the first academic year commencing in late September and ending in June the following year. This pattern is the same for the second academic year.

The course is structured around formal classes, seminars, tutorials and individual tuition. In addition, students will be expected to undertake private study. Students will have to prepare at least two assignments per subject per term, plus two integrated assignments.Those seeking courses at degree level on completion of their BTEC National diploma course, will need to apply to UCAS by the end of the first term of the second year. The college will be required to complete a detailed reference on the performance of the candidate.

Syllabus
1.COMPUTER PLATFORMS
This unit is aimed at practitioners who need sufficient knowledge to make decisions on the selection/specification of systems and to use computer hardware and software effectively. Students will be shown how to use operating systems to create their own operating environment and participate in its development. Many practitioners communicate with specialist technical support staff during the specification and planning of systems implementation. This unit aims to give practitioners the confidence to communicate with technical specialists and to validate their recommendations

CONTENTS
1. Computer system
Processor: description of components (Von-Neuman architecture), terminology (e.g. bits, bytes, kilobytes etc), identification of factors affecting performance (e.g. MIPS, FLOPS, clock speed, computer performance indexes, bus architecture).

Backing Store: identification of types (disc, CD etc), performance factors (e.g. data transfer rate, seek times, capacity)

Peripherals: description of available peripherals (display, printers etc), understanding of performance factors (e.g. display-performance, resolution, colour planes, video RAM, refresh rate, interlacing, slot pitch etc. printer-speed, resolution, image quality, software requirements, postscript, PCL and associated printer control)

Computer Selection: specification of requirements, evaluating the performance of the selected system.

2. Operating systems
Operating system functions: overview of functions (e.g. user interface, machine and peripheral management etc), comparison between functions of different types of operating systems (personal computers, net work, mainframe etc)

Computer operations: use of a proprietary operating system, generation of environment and systems for a computer user (file/directory structures, tailoring of screen interface, backup systems etc).

Network administration: user management (maintenance of work groups, security etc)

3. Computer system
Upgrading opportunities: overview of opportunities (e.g. memory, additions of cards etc. current de facto standards)

4. Network installation
Network resources: components of a network (e.g. network operating systems, nodes, communication systems, server, network cards etc) functions of components, understanding of networking principles (e.g. packets, communications protocols topologies etc)

External links: external information systems (e.g. email, internet, intranet) knowledge of capacity of external communications systems (e.g. ISDN, radio etc.)

Network planning: creating an implementation schedule, producing a plan containing location of nodes, repeaters etc. and server capacities for a specific set of defined applications.

User support planning: identifying user training needs, producing a training schedule, functions of a help desk

Security: physical and logical security measures, back-up and recovery, hacking, encryption, levels of access rights

Unit 2: Systems Analysis
Description of unit
This unit will give students the ability to compare the different lifecycle models. It will provide the foundation of systems analysis and design by covering requirement analysis for both commercial and technical applications. It will also introduce the data and functional modelling techniques which students can be expected to use. The unit provides the opportunity for students to implement the data models using a proprietary database.

Contents
1.Lifecycles models:
Systems lifecycle: the stages of a chosen cycle (eg specification, design, detailed design code and unit test, integrated and test, maintenance), the purpose of each stage, definition of validation and verification

Evaluation of models: comparison of a chosen mode l with other techniques (e.g. prototyping, dynamic systems analysis or object-based methods)

2. System investigation
Fact finding techniques; interview, observation, investigation, questionnaire

Fact recording methods and standard: current computer and paper based fact-recording methods such as grid charts, flow diagrams, and standard documentations technique

3. Functional and data modelling
Functional modelling: identification of system processes and functions, data flow diagrams and process modelling techniques

Data modelling; top down techniques, entity relation modelling, implementations of simple relational system using a proprietary database

Unit 3: Soft ware constructs and Tools
Description of unit
The aim of this unit is to provide students with an awareness of wide range of problems within computing, the way that problem and solution can be modelled and techniques to solve them. They will be introduced to the concept of business model and will be shown how to use spreadsheets to model current and future situations. The unit also profiles students with the opportunity to perform some coding; albeit within the framework of appropriate mechanisms. Although a third-generation programming languages is the most appropriate, centre could consider spreadsheets, data bases, 4GLs or knowledge-based expert systems as alternatives

Contents
1. Problem-solving theory, applications and techniques
Problem solving applications: an overview of the areas within computing (eg system design, software development and computer management) where problem solving is appropriate and examples of applications within those areas

Overview of problem-solving theory and technique: well defined and ill defined problems techniques available (e.g. abstractions and generalisations, brainstorming, decision trees, project management, algorithms)

Testing and documenting the solution: recognition that every proposed solution requires testing and documentation before implementation, testing and documentation templates for software development

2. Business Models
Model definition: a description with appropriate examples of how numerical information can model both current and future views of an organisational problem Spreadsheet features: description and use of the features of spreadsheets (formulae, graphs, functions etc)

Design and implementation of spread-sheet based model: the production of a design from a specification, the implementation to satisfy the design, test the solution, use with various 'what if' scenarios

3. Programme methodology
Storage: the concept of data storage within a computer program, using variables, constants and literals

Control structures: identify and select appropriate iterative and selections structures when writing simple programs

Programming language syntax: the facility and rules of the language (operator, I/O commands, functions)

Program design: algorithm method for the development of a solution to a problem (structure diagrams, pseudo code etc), producing tested programs to meet given specifications

Programming standards and practice: use of comments, consistent indentations and descriptive identifiers

Unit 4: Computing solutions
Organisations have always depended on information to ensure success. Over the years organisations have changed their information systems from dealing purely with data processing to strategic and decision support. Managers need information to plan successfully in the short, medium and long term. It is also recognised nowadays that information is required at all levels in an organisation and that information itself can have many sources. The importance of valid information system is gaining competitive advantage needs to be stressed.

Students will gain an understanding of the ways in which data can be processed and the applications that support organisations. They will also be asked to evaluate the capacity of an information system to satisfy the needs of the user.

Contents
1. Information and contemporary applications
Information and data: definition of information and data, sources of information, information requirement and the needs of information at different levels within an organisation, storing information and its importance with regard to security, accuracy and relevance.

Contemporary applications: operational transaction processing, managerial decision making, executive information systems

2. Information processing
Tools: description of current tools (e.g. text processor, client server, databases, artificial intelligence, expert systems, data warehousing), description of the use of telecommunications (e.g. internet, email etc.)

Information processing: transaction processing, information presentation and reporting strategic advantage and problem solving, relationship with tools.

3. Information systems within an organisation
Measures: evaluation/criteria, e.g. accuracy, suitability, timeliness, cost, confidence, legal, ethical and social issues.

Unit 5: Computer Implementation Project
Description of unit
The aim of this unit is to help students integrate the skills and knowledge they have acquired during the course to produce a soft ware-based solution to a realistic problem. The emphasis may vary widely (e.g. 3GL procedural programming, object-based programming, event-driven programming, declarative programming, internet/intranet, multi-media,. Database development via 4GL, application development via macros, software engineering principles, A and quality manuals etc), but students must produce a software application.

This is a major piece of work that should demonstrate the performance expected at an HND Computing/ software Engineering level.

The problem may be work-based, college -based, or a student interest but it must be developed in accordance with the unit's framework and constraints.

This will develop the ability to produce an acceptable and viable software solution to an agreed specification within a defined timescale and constraints.

Contents
1. Plan an appropriate project
Project selection: research and review areas of interest, select and appraise the feasibility of the chosen project.

Project specification: identify, structure and develop a list of user requirement relevant to the chosen project into a project specification

Project plan: produce an appropriate computer-based plan for the project including timescales, deliverables, and milestones etc. for a Software Engineering project this should also include quality assurance system and quality plan etc

2. Develop the project
Design / structure: consider alternative design methods/techniques and environment which could include the use of structured design, object design, real time design, graphical displays, story boarding, data analysis etc.

Development: review, select and use suitable software to implement the project

Documentation: documents all stages to agreed standards

3 Verify the project
Plan: formulate and agree a verification plan, which ensures the developed product, fulfils its specification

Verification techniques: review, select and use appropriate verifications techniques-these will vary according to the nature of the project but must include software testing techniques such as black box and / or White Box and should be relevant to the type of software used for the project.

Implementation: Implement and document the agreed verification plan

4. Evaluate the project
Demonstration: this will vary according to the project but should include a demonstration of a software solution, which is well organised, structured and delivered by the student

Audience: demonstration should be to a know audience (peer group, tutor etc)

Documentation: the content will differ according to the specific project but in each case it should include complete relevant documentation of all stages of the project to agreed standards, critical evaluation of the project

Unit 6: Software Engineering Implementation Project
Description of unit
The aim of this unit is to help student to integrate the skills and knowledge they have acquired during the course to produce a software-based solution to a realistic problem. The emphasis may vary according to the chose outcomes.

This is a major piece of work that should demonstrate the performance expected at an HN Computing/ software Engineering level.

The problem may be work-based, college -based, or a student interest but it must be developed in accordance with the unit's framework and constraints.

This will develop the ability to produce an acceptable and viable software solution to an agreed specification within a defined timescale and constraints.

Contents
1. Plan an appropriate project
Project selection: research and review areas of interest, select an appropriate project, devise a structure and produce aim for the project, estimate and list required resource for the chosen project.

Project plan: produce an appropriate computer-based plan for the project including timescales, deliverables, and milestones, quality assurance systems, quality plans etc.

Project specification: identify, structure and develop a list of user requirement relevant to the chosen project and acceptable to client, produce an outline and a detailed design for the project in relation to the requirement using standard methods, document the project specifications.

Or
1.Plan an appropriate project to an agreed specification
Project selection: research and review areas of interest, select an appropriate project, devise a structure and produce aim for the project, estimate and list required resource for the chosen project.

Project plan: produce an appropriate computer-based plan for the project including timescales, deliverables, and milestones, quality assurance systems, quality plans etc.

Design/structure: consider alternative design methods/techniques and environment which could include the use of preliminary design, detailed design, data design, object design, real time design, graphical displays, story boarding, data analysis etc.

Development: review, select and use suitable software to develop the project

Development: 2. Verify the project
Plan: formulate and agree a verification plan which ensure the developed product fulfils the project objectives

Verification techniques; review, select and use appropriate verifications techniques-these will vary according to the nature of the project but must include user verification, statistical survey, questionnaires, software techniques such as Black Box and/or White Box etc.

Unit 7: Bussiness Information Technology Implementation Project
Description of unit
The aim of this unit is to help student to integrate the skills and knowledge they have acquired during the course to produce a software-based solution to a realistic problem.

This is a major piece of work that should demonstrate the performance expected at a Higher National level.

The problem may be work-based, college -based, or a student interest but it must be developed in accordance with the unit's framework and constraints.

This will develop the ability to produce an acceptable and viable software solution to an agreed specification within a defined timescale and constraints.

Contents
1. Plan an appropriate project
Project selection: research and review areas of interest, select and appraise the feasibility of the chosen project.

Project specification: identify, structure and develop a list of user requirement relevant to the chosen project into a project specification

Project plan: produce an appropriate computer-based plan for the project including timescales, deliverables, and milestones etc

2. Develop the project
Design / structure: consider alternative design methods/techniques and environment which could include the use of structured design, object design, real time design, graphical displays, story boarding, data analysis etc.

Development: review, select and use suitable software to implement the project

Documentation: documents all stages to agreed standards

3 Verify the project
Plan: formulate and agree a verification plan, which ensures the developed product, fulfils its specification

Verification techniques: review, select and use appropriate verifications techniques-these will vary according to the nature of the project but must include user verification, software testing, statistical surveys, questionnaire etc.

Implementation: Implement and document the agreed verification plan

4.Evaluate the project
Demonstration: delivered by the student, this will vary according to the project but should either an oral presentation using charts diagrams, graphs, reports etc. prepared using suitable WP, presentation, spread sheet software etc. or a demonstration of a software solution, which is well organised and structured

Audience: demonstration should be to a know audience (peer group, tutor etc)

Documentation: complete final documentation of all stages of the project to agreed standards, critical evaluation of the project

Unit 8: Quality Management Principles
Description of unit
The unit will enable students to learn about quality assurance through the maintenance of an existing computer system. It will deal with the quality assurance and professional issues related to computer systems implementation and management.

It will be left to centre so select an appropriate system development method as a vehicle to cover the units requirements, if the unit is delivered within a course which contains software development method relevant to the software tools used is suggested

Contents
1. Systems analysis and design tools
Systems analysis and design tools: graphical and text-based tools appropriate for the methodology chosen, tools which define both the environmental and behavioural perspectives of a system, tools designed for process/functional modelling (e.g. state transitions, even traces) object modelling (e.g. object diagram, CRCs) and data modelling

Project management: production of simple critical path networks, using computer based project management tools

Systems maintenance: change request form, the production of a new version of the analysis and design documentation for a project developed using the selected methodology, use of computer based text and presentation packages for documentation, maintenance of cross referencing and indexes

2.Quality assurance
Quality assurance factors: meeting specifications, budget, delivery time, maintainability, and external and internal quality systems

Quality: assurance tools: quality manual, quality plan, project plan, configuration management, and walkthrough and inspection records

3. Professional standard
Legal requirements: the requirement of current legislation affecting the implementation and management of computer systems (e.g. health and safety, data protection)

Professional requirements: professional standards required by professional computing bodies (e.g. British Computer Society) problem arising from lack of compliance with professional standards

Unit 9 Communication Technology
Description of unit
Communications systems including networks, telecommunications and digital broadcasting are pivotal to the development of modern information and transaction systems. Mangers need to be involved in specifying and evaluating such systems.

This unit will provide the required knowledge to specify and manage communication networks in the light of the needs of the organisation. It will also provide skills, which will enable the practitioner to make informed decisions on communication strategies in the workplace.

Contents
1. Performance of communication systems
Performance factors: the bandwidth required for given applications including text, graphics, video, and speech, options for providing bandwidth, evaluation of acceptable network performance, cost of providing and monitoring performance

Communication technologies: a survey of hardware components (e.g. modems, fast internet routes etc) a survey of communications standards e.g. ATM, FDDI etc

Human factors: the trade off between ideal and acceptable performance, user requirements versus business needs

2. Impact of communication technology
Business factors: the commercial opportunities presented by new communication technologies, information content of intranets and the benefits of sharing of this information within an organisation, the internet as a source of information, trading, advertising and marketing opportunities, application of digital broadcasting

Communication factors: security of transactions over the internet, the use of LANs and WANs as a means of increasing efficient communication in an organisation, software and file format, version control across an organisation (avoidance of multiple incompatible formats) electronic fund transfer systems, role of communication devices (eg web servers, routers)

2. Cost and security
Development costs: the accurate costing for a particular system to include hardware, software, staff training, data conversion from previous systems, acceptance trails, pilot schemes etc planning the future costs of repetitive hardware and software upgrades, the cost of server based compared with workstation-based application software in terms of hardware maintenance contracts cost and the costing of providing use help facilities

Security costs: cost and value of data and information on a network, cost associated with re-building and checking consistency following system failure or unauthorised access, the costs and loss of willing staff participation as a result of over zealous security measures

Security mechanisms: security mechanisms supplied by the network system including backup and data restoration, passwords, ownership and access rights, physical security devices (e.g. RAID servers, disc mirroring, ring back etc), software security e.g. transactions rollback

Unit 10 : Advance Computing Project
Description of Unit
The aim of this unit is to help students integrate the skills and Knowledge they have acquired during the course to produce a solution to a realistic problem. The emphasis in contrast with level one project units, should be to provide a distinctive area of study appropriate to the Computing pathway in the HNC/HND. The business information technology and software Enineering pathways provide emphasis in those areas, whereas the computing pathway is a general qualification in computing. Therefore, the project undertaken in this unit should show as much integration as possible of the abilities across units already completed or are currently underway. This may vary from one student and (where possible) the needs of employers.

The subject area may vary widely (eg the production software, the use or automation of application software, the specification and implementation of a computerised solution to a problem etc), however the emphasis should be on applying existing knowledge and skills rather than new knowledge.This is a major piece of work that should demonstrate the performance expected at an HN level 2 and reflect the double value in both workload and content. The problem may be work-based, college-based or a student interest, but it must be developed in accordance with the unit's framework and constraints.

Contents
1. Plan an appropriate project
Project selection: review areas of study already undertaken in the Computing pathway (or skills acquired elsewhere but directly appropriate to the Computing pathway) and select an area of interest, appraise the feasibility of the project in terms of workload, level of ability required, estimates of timescale and resources available.

Project specification: identify, structure and develop a user specification relevant to the project then develop a detailed technical specification, both these specifications to be in a form appropriate for presentation to management in a real or simulated work environment. The aim is to allow such managers to have sufficient information to make an informed decision about the viability of the project.

Project plan: produce a realistic plan for the project including timescales, deliverables, milestones, resource requirements etc

2. Develop the project
Design: consider all possible solution to the problem, evaluate these solutions then select the most viable, select a suitable design method and apply it to the selected solution, consider adventurous or radical solutions even if the final solution is conventional

Development: review, select and use suitable software, hardware or systems to implement the project, monitor development against the agreed plan and take appropriate action if the project does not always go to plan. Students should show awareness of this and the ability to take effective action to mitigate the effects of unforeseen problems

Documentation: document all aspects of the project to agreed standards

3. Verify the project or plan appropriate action
Verification plan: formulate and agree a verification plan which ensures the developed product fulfils its specification

Verification techniques: review, select and use appropriate verification techniques - these will vary according to the nature of the project but must include testing techniques such as Black Box and/or White Box and should be relevant to the type of software used for the project

Verification implementation: implement and document the agreed verification plan

4. Evaluate the project
Demonstration: this will vary according to the project but should include a demonstration of the solution which is well organised, structured and delivered by the student

Audience: demonstration should be to a known audience (peer group, tutors etc) and the audience should include those who would have approved the project against the plan in Outcome 1

Documentation: content will differ according to the specific project but in each case it should include complete relevant documentation of all stages of the project to agreed standards and the completion of a critical evaluation

Future development: Most projects seldom achieve the perfect solution at the first attempt, demonstrate the route that must be taken to develop the project further and the methods to be used

Unit 11: Advanced Software Engineering Project
This unit will form a central part in the development of the student's ability to link and integrate the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme to produce a practical solution to a realistic problem. The unit will encourage team work but assessment will be based on the individual work.

Student(s) will undertake a complete and realistic project and successfully complete it within the time constraint imposed, working within a group and individually when necessary. The project will span all the lifecycle stages for the development of software, from planning to implementation and maintenance. The problem may be work-based, college-based or student interest but it must be developed in accordance with the unit's framework and constraints.

Content
1. Project plan
Planning stage: state the project aims, structure the project, test the project plan through simulation, review the project plan, schedule the project, establish control

Estimate and list required resource: feasibility study, human resources, hardware resources, software resources

Managing the project: planning, organising, staffing, directing and controlling

Use of software support tools: develop, construct, implement and test the project planning

2. System analysis and design
Analysis stage: requirement definition, analysis type implemented, information gathering, profiling the organisation, finalise the target requirements, confirm the requirements, agree the specification with the client, document the project specification (user requirement)

Design stage: Preliminary design, detail design, data design, architectural design, procedural design, modular design, structured design, object design, real time design, graphical display, store boarding etc

Use of case tool: notations, techniques, methods selected and used

3. Program coding
Programming languages: select the languages suitable for the project, specify the language and the part of the project it deals with

Programming techniques: list the types of techniques which will be implemented and where each technique will be used in the project

Program requirement: data type and declarations, assignments and expressions, control structures, subprograms including recession, arrays and records, data structure, algorithms

Program testing: functional testing (black box), Structural testing (white box)

4. Solution
Hardware installation: develop hardware installation procedures, link all hardware together to form a complete hardware system, format the necessary hardware, test the hardware system operation

Software installation: develop software installation procedures, copy software to hardware using correct procedure, reboot system hardware

Testing activities: unit testing, link testing, integrating testing, validation testing, system testing

5. Quality and maintainability
Quality and standards: quality assurance, quality matrices, standards for quality (BS, ISO)

Maintenance: type of maintenance to be used, maintenance phases and their schedules, configuration management

6. Evaluate the project
Presentation: this will vary according to the project but should include a presentation of each outcome and full solution which should be well organised, structured and delivered by either the individual student, or a group of students if it is a group project

Audience: is should be presented to a known audience (peer group, tutors, internal and external supervisors, clients etc)

Documentation: the content will differ according to the specific project but in each case it should include complete relevant documentation of all stages of the project to agreed standards, and a full a critical evaluation

Unit 12: Advanced Business Information Technology Project
Description of unit
This unit which has a value of 2 will be a significant piece of work designed to integrate H2 units. Knowledge and skills developed throughout the course are drawn on to deliver practical and realistic solutions to business-related problems.Students are expected to analyse a business problem, understand its context, and plan and design a suitable solution. The project should be chosen by the student, under guidance from the centre to establish an appropriate level of study.

Content
1 Identify a realistic business problem
Problem identification: sources of information/ideas, investigations, problem domains, finding and recording facts.

Options and solutions: problem-solving techniques, comparative/contrasting problems, feasibility assessment, methodologies and communication proposals.Project management: planning, estimating, resource allocation, budgeting, monitoring and control techniques, use of computer-based tools

2 Specify and design a solution

Requirements specification: development, maintenance and operating environments, functional requirements and constraints, external interfaces, data flows, screen mock-ups, dialogues, reports, data dictionaries.

Quality assurance: exception handling, verification procedures, event identification, acceptance criteria, standards for documentation and testing, service level agreements

Design: data analysis and design, application design, user interfaces, dialogues, design specifications, non-computer procedures, models prototypes and design walkthroughs, job descriptions, service levels, logging systems, security and audit procedures, use of software tools appropriate to chosen project

3 Implement the project

Content for Outcome 3 will depend on the nature of the selected project but will typically consist of the following:

Implementation: methods and techniques, user involvement, implementation, planning documentation support, selection and support changeover (eg pilot, parallel running), help systems, prototyping, user involvement, softwareTesting: test plans, test cases/scenarios, functionality, user interfaces and documentation testing compliance with standards, verification that project meets specification

4 Evaluate the project

Presentation: writing styles, report writing and presentation techniques, use of graphics/illustrations, screen dumps, demonstrations, packaging and delivery, use of appropriate software

Critical evaluation: detailed analysis of results, conclusions and recommendations, ethical and social considerations, planned versus actual costs, opportunities for further studies and developments

Unit 13: Networking
Description of unit

The importance of networked solutions in the business world grows year on year. The increasingly sophisticated technologies and widening user base means a fundamental understanding of networks is essential for many. The aim of this unit is to provide a rigorous introduction to networks, and practical experience in installing users and software on a network.

This unit will clarify the issues associated with network use and how this has developed. It will identify the architectural concepts behind networking and help develop the preliminary skills necessary to install and manage networks.

Content
1 Benefit of networks

Network principles and applications definition of a network: evolution of network uses, from simple file and print networks, through small office computing, to client-server architectures, review of remote access, starting with e-mail through to intranets and the Internet, LANs, WANs, and MANs, networked applications, cost/benefit analysis of network use

Network use: an overview of network resources (hardware and software), facilities of a network operating system, understanding of security implications and software licensing issues, constraints on capacity and performance ( such as being asked to run video off a 10M ethernet connection)

2 Design/evaluation of networks

Network architecture concepts: the ISO OSI 7 layer model (and/or IEE 802), topologies, eg bus, ring, structured, a description of communication devices, repeaters, bridges and hubs, standard connectors and wiring, functions of a network card, differences between peer to peer and server based networks, description of main protocols, ie Ethernet, ATM, token ring, IPX, SPX, and their relationship with the 7-layer model, the principles and resources required to connect LANs to WANs, TCP/IP as a WAN protocol, TCP/IP addressing and how routing worksNetwork design: using architectural principles and definitions to design a new network or evaluate an existing one

3 Network software

User factors: design and definition of users and groups, the definition of directory structures on the file server, file and directory attributes, trustee rights, IRM (Inherited rights management), and setting up security.

Login scripts: definition of the user environment, menu systemsHardware and software factors: printing set-up understanding of printing options, installation and configuration of applications on the network (including operating system constraints), file server installation and utilities

4 Network management

Management responsibilities: the problems of creating large numbers of accounts on a network and keeping it up-to-date, management of users, workgroup managers, network security and virus protection, (elements of good practice)

Control resource usage estimation and tracing of resource usage, managing printer queues, connecting of the network to the outside world, advantages (eg Internet) and disadvantages (eg hackers), firewalls

Unit 14: Data Analysis and Database Design
An understanding of databases is fundamental to the development of any significant information system. Database systems are predominant in the world of IT and continue to demand more complex data structures as applications get increasingly sophisticated. The aim of this unit is to provide an essential knowledge of database systems including basic design principles, practical implementation and development skills for both system designer and software engineer.

The importance of structured query languages should be stressed, and once created, databases will be used or demonstrated for a variety of tasks including querying and report writing.

Content
1 Databases

Implement a design: select suitable data types, entity and referential constraints, convert logical database design to physical implementation using appropriate visual tools and structured query languages

Data manipulation: use of query languages and visual tools for database maintenance, inserts, updates and amendments of dataQuery and reporting: query languages and query by example (QBE) to extract meaningful data, including formatting and use of functions/formulae, report writing tools, links to stored queries, design and format of reports, including graphical outputApplication links: database applications, identification and use of data sources and access via 4GL programs

2 Small databases

Relation model: the relational model and relational operationsData analysis: identification of data requirements form different user perspectives, comparison of top-down and bottom-up approaches to data analysis, their strengths and weaknesses

Top-down analysis: entity analysis techniques, entities, attributes, key identifiers, relationship types and enterprise rules, entity relation diagrams (ERDs), degrees of a relationships

Bottom-up introduction: to problems of redundancy, update anomalies, purpose of normalisation, functional dependency, determinacy diagrams and identification of un-normalised data structures, development of first, second and third normal forms

Data definition: documenting results from data analysis, data models/notations, data dictionaries, use of supportive software including database products and data modelling software tools

Unit 15: Visual Programming
Students will increasingly use visually based operating systems such as Windows 95 and will need to develop code which uses similar features and techniques

The aim of this unit is to enable students to develop visual applications, become familiar with a visual development environment and use its facilities to build the applications

Content
1 Visual objects

Object types: Buttons, Text Boxes, Windows, Frames etc
Object structure: attributes, methods etc
Creating objects: placing objects on a screen and customising attributes
Linking objects: enabling objects to interact using programming or scripting

2 Visual application

Design strategies: state transition diagrams, storyboarding, event modelling, prototyping
Design: using design strategies

3 Visual development environment

Identification of features: investigation of current advanced tools and development methods
Employment of features: use of advanced features to satisfy the requirement methods application features available will vary greatly between different development environments, but typical examples might be the use of drag and drop, simple animation, linking to databases, Internet development

Unit 16: Human Computer Interface
As technology moves forward, new exciting methods of communicating with computers are becoming possible. Software developers are required to determine whether software is developed with new techniques or traditional tried and tested methods. The developer also needs to measure how well a computer interacts with a user.

This unit aims to give students a full understanding of the human computer interface (HCI) and the part it plays in the construction of software which is usable, attractive, efficient and effective. The student is encouraged to explore how well software interacts with the user, fulfils the user's needs and makes allowances for different users. The student should develop a critical appreciation of the advantages and disadvantages of various interfaces currently available and experience the production of a prototype.

Content
1 HCI related developments and their application
Developments in technology: workstation environment eg screens, keyboards, pointing devices, other I/O devices (eg speech), related processing and storage requirements
Developments in HCI: virtual machines, command line input ( command sets), menu selection and the methods of selection, graphical interfaces, speech, screen design for intensive data entry, intelligent HCIs, virtual personas (engaging with the computer within a virtual reality), concept of 'look and feel'Developments in the concept of 'the user': range of users (eg expert, regular, occasional, novice, special needs), needs of user
Development of systems: new developments (eg hypertext, event driven systems, use of multimedia), modelling techniques, implication of new developments on user interfaces, implications of developments on hardware (storage, processing requirements etc)
Applications: range of applications, selection of HCIs for specific applications

2 HCI
Psychological considerations: memory (long-and short-term), reasoning, perception, cognition and the use of metaphors and the consequences on the design of HCI
Health and safety considerations: ergonomics and the surrounding environment, eg lighting seating, RSI, legal implications
Information considerations: necessity for information-rich environment, examples of systems (eg share trading rooms or combat environments)Cost implications in the choice of HCI: training, effectiveness of systems, architectural requirements (eg hardware, software, communications)HCI support for less common environments: identification of applications (eg Remote interaction using virtual environments, real time simulation (flight simulators), high-speed interactive interfaces (games), special needs (implications for colour blind, partially sighted, blind, physically incapacitated, slow learners), analysis of implication of HCI selection

3 HCI prototypes

Modelling the interface: mapping the system functionality to the conceptual model, grouping of the tasks into logical sets
Analysis: task analysis eg storyboarding, user needs analysis, evaluation of HCI complexity
Design: rules and heuristics for good HCI design, review of propriety examples, context sensitive help, on line help/documentation, design toolsProduction: selection of tools, production of prototype
Measuring the functionality of an HCI: keystroke effort per task, ability to navigate within the system, time to perform a task, ability to configure the HCI, user satisfaction

Unit 17: End User Support
User need training in the systems they use since problems always occur, they also need support from knowledgeable and sympathetic staff within a formal framework of systems support. A major element of support is the provision of a service to install the hardware and software to satisfy changed requirements. This unit the framework for developing the knowledge and skills needed by those who aim to provide this important service.

Content
1 User problem
Analysis of problem: ability to identify a user's requirements from a computer system, ability to analyse or determine a problem from a user's descriptionEvaluation of possible solutions: immediate response, advice on access to manuals, help systems etc, obtaining additional supportHuman factors: appreciation of user frustration, appropriate communication techniques, situations requiring communication eg changes/amendments.User support system: role of help desks, logging systems for faults and solutions, service level agreements

2 Installation of hardware and software
Installation planning: analysis of users' requirements, installation schedules, acceptance standards, user involvement
Installation programs: installation and testing of software, device drivers, support files etc configuring software to suit specified user needs and the machine operating environment
Installation of hardware: installing and configuring supplied hardware to a manufacturer's standard instructions, (hardware may include single of multiple circuit boards, memory modules, storage of I/O devices etc), adherence to health and safety procedures
Testing: testing new installation against specified acceptance standards, taking remedial action
Re-configuration of installed software: re-configuration of software to suit changes in user requirements or to solve problems, testing of re-configuration

3 Software products

Training areas: applications, security, routine maintenance
Training tools: a survey of tools eg manuals, guides, multimedia, courses etc, evaluation of appropriateness of different training toolsTraining plans: identifying different training needs, producing a training schedule, evaluating training
Individual training: analysis of requirements of user, identify capability of user, employing appropriate tools with necessary support
Individual education: developing user responsibility (eg accuracy, prevention of viruses), encouraging users to increase knowledge of computing.

Unit 18: Introduction to Programming
An understanding of the general principles and concepts of programming underpins much of the knowledge in any course in computing or IT.Being a core unit, this seeks to provide the fundamental ideas and opportunities to develop and reinforce basic programming skill. Students will develop programs of increasing complexity, and although the content could be delivered from a range of languages, compilers or platforms, the unit should aim to deliver skills and knowledge which will easily transfer to other area of the programme.This unit will also attempt to dispel the common notion that a program 'works' if is seen to execute once without crashing, asking the student to develop and implement both 'black-box' and 'white-box' testing schedules based on supplied program specifications and program code.
The unit does not cover dynamic data structures, files of records/structures or using objects; belong in 'Data Structures and Algorithms' (Unit 25) or 'Object-Oriented Programming' (Unit 24).

1 Structured programming

Storage: the concepts of data storage within a computer program, using variables, constants and literals. For a third generation language, the pre-defined data types, integers, floating-points, character, Boolean (logical), strings, ID and 2D arrays of simple types, and simple files, consequences of using these types, and the available operators within the supplied languageControl structures: identify and select appropriate iterative and selection structures when writing simple programsProgramming language syntax: the facilities and rules of the language (operators, 1/0 commands etc)Program design: employment of an algorithmic approach for the development of a solution to a problem (structure charts, pseudo code etc), producing tested programs to meet given specificationsProgramming standards and practice: use of comments, code layout eg consistent identification and descriptive identifiers

2 Modularisation
Use of functions/procedures: the student use/create functions/procedures both pre-defined, and user-defined, map structured design onto a program using functions/procedures
Scope of variable: global, local, static and external variablesParameters: passing data by value and reference, using return values
3 test schedulesError types: semantic, syntax and run-timeTest documentation: test plan and related evidence of testing (may include reading sample inputs from a file and/or writing test results to a file)Test data and schedules: black box, white box and dry testingError detection techniques: compiler and linker error messages, debugging tools and structured walk-through

Unit 19: Computer Architecture
The unit outlines the fundamental way in which a computer works: starting with simple logic and progressing to a simple model of a microprocessor. This is followed by an appreciation of low-level programming leading to a clear understanding of the key points of machine performance. The time spent on machine performance should be sufficient to enable students to make an authoritative evaluation between different machine architectures. The unit also covers a basic knowledge of the purpose of operating systems and some elementary operating system processes.

1 Computer system
Processor: description of components (Von-Neuman architecture), identification of factors affecting performance (eg MIPS, FLOPS, clock speed, computed performance indexes, bus architecture, etc)
Backing store: identification of types (disc, CD etc) performance factors (eg data transfer rate, seek times, capacity)
Peripherals: description of available peripherals (displays, printer etc), understanding of performance factors (eg displays-performance, resolution, colour planes, video RAM, refresh rate, interlacing, slot pitch etc, printer-speed, resolution, image quality, software requirements, Postscript, PCL and associated printer control)
Computer selection: specification of user requirements, match to a machine specification evaluation of suppliers' proposals

2 Operating systems
Operating system functions: overview of functions (eg user interface, machine and peripheral management etc), comparison between functions of different types of operating system (personal computer, network, maintenance etc)Computer operations: use of a proprietary operating system, generation of environment and systems for a computer user (file/directory structures, tailoring of screen interface, backup systems etc)Network administration: the management of users (maintenance of work groups, logical and physical security)

3 Data representation, simple logic and the fetch-executive cycle of a modelData representation: number system conversions (eg binary, denary, hexadecimal, floating point numbers, ASCII, Unicode, bit masks, graphic bitmaps, role of different number systems), demonstration of the possibility of errors by inappropriate representation of decimal or other numbers in various binary form

Logic and fetch-executive cycle: concepts of logic and logic gates, simple arrays of logic gates, truth tables, concepts of registers, busses, control unit, arithmetic and logic unit, memory etc in model microprocessor and the fetch-decode-execute cycle, without reference to performance enhancing hardware such as cache memory

4 Low-level programs
Machine code: development of programs which enable an application of a set of operation codes and operands (to move, add, subtract, multiply, divide, mask, make decisions using branching)

Assembly code: development of short assembly language programs covering a set of operation codes and operands (may link to high-level code or sections of in-line assembly language), use of operating system calls, direct addressing of hardware/hardware subsystems or IO devices as appropriate to the machine in use

Critical appreciation of machine performance: an identification of how the architectural relationship between the fetch-execute cycle and different machine code programs affect performance

Unit 20: Database Management Systems
The aim of this unit is to provide the application developer with essential knowledge of database management system software. Content will include the evolution of DBMS technology, database administrative functions and controls within a multi-user environment.

Content
1 DBMS technologies
Evolution: concepts of redundancy and dependence in flat file systems, the DBMS solution, data independence, integrity and security, components of a typical database management systemTechnologies: hierarchical, network, relational and object models, single user, multi-user and enterprise wide database applications, two and three tier client-server, Internet/intranet architectures, support for complex data types eg graphical, multi-media

2 Database administrative tasks
DBA functions: the DBA' s role, creation and management of databases and users, security eg levels of authority, access rites, service levels, recovery, back-up procedures, use of views, SQL support for DBA functionsIntegrity: insert, update and deletion anomalies, entity and referential integrity, database design including integrity constraint, SQL support for integrity constraintsPerformance: performance criteria, storage and access methods eg use of indexes, b-trees etc query optimisers, costs of improved performance, language support for optimising performance

3 Multi-user environment
Concurrency: properties of transactions, concurrency issues, atomocity, consistency, independence and durability (ACID) principlesBackup and recovery: use of log files, checkpoints, timestamping, rollback and recovery techniques, SQL supportLocking: loss of integrity in concurrent systems eg lost updates, inconsistent analysis, isolation levels, locking mechanisms (including two-phase protocol)

Unit 21: Computer Management
The unit aims to provide the generic skills and knowledge required by a manager in the information technology sector. Such managers have additional pressures of having to deal continuously with change and participate effectively with management at all levels, including senior management, in the development of strategy.

In addition to techniques for staffing and budgetary control, the unit also covers techniques for keeping abreast of developments in information technology.

Content
1 Staffing management
Staff recruitment: job description, selection criteria, preparation for interview, administrative and induction processes, line management structureMotivation of staff: current theories, leadership, participation, management of change, team structure and management
Staff administration: scheduling including links with project management, monitoring performance, appraisal, implications for contract staff

2 Organisational requirements
Organisation charts: roles and responsibilities of employees, organisation charts for IT departments and other financial areas
Financial planning and control: investigation of an organisation's budgetary procedures, bidding procedures, budgetary monitoring systems, production of financial reports
Software tools for management: investigation of available tools (eg diary systems, spreadsheets, intranet, decision support systems), identification of tools with appropriate applications

3 Strategic planning
Strategic planning: the aim of strategic planning, the role of IT developments in strategic planning
Maintaining currency: research methods (eg periodicals, Internet, conference etc), networking (human contracts), accreditation
Senior management links: techniques to influence management, production of necessary documentation (reports, briefs etc), the role of service level agreements, the need for security and disaster planning

Unit 22: Web Site Management
This unit enables students to create and manage web-based applications. The focus is on the server and the mechanisms to link web pages to databases. Although intended for the Internet, it could be taught with reference to an intranet, and the unit will deal with intranet issues.
Content
1 Interactive web pages
Mark-up languages: mark-up languages (ML), structure of ML, ML tags and their documentation, current ML features (tables, frames etc), current changes to ML standards
Browsers: difference between current browsers and designing to suit them, use of Javascript, Java applets etc
Server interaction: linking via a web server/Internet with databases using current protocols eg get, post mailto, isindex, query, ODBC

2 Web sites
Specification: web site software, server operating system, server hardware and communications requirements, server performance and loadingServer organisation: structure of services, (eg WWW, ftp, gopher), structure of data, areas, aliases, management and performance analysis tools, portabilitySecurity and integrity: backup, user access rights, file management, testing integrity of third party supplied web pages, protection against aggressive attack eg firewalls

3 Interactive applications
Sever side interaction: accepting data from users and responding with appropriate actions and responses based using the CGI (Common Gateway Interface) or equivalentDatabase connectivity: the common methods of using/accessing databases from CGI applications eg ODBC, JDBC, SQL

 

 
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