UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION Programme Title: Awarding Body: Teaching Institution: Final Awards: Information Systems Staffordshire University School of Computing, Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Sciences, Staffordshire University BSc (Hons) Information Systems Intermediate Awards: Mode of Study: UCAS Codes: Certificate of Higher Education Diploma of Higher Education BSc Full Time 3 years, or Full Time 4 years (Sandwich) G505 & G506 QAA Subject Benchmarks: Computing QAA 170 03/07 JACS Code: G400 Professional/Statutory Body: Date of Production: April 2013 Date of Revision: February 2016 If you require this document in a larger text or a different medium please contact us. 1
EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME This course aims to provide you with a curriculum that incorporates current academic research in Information Systems, and leading edge industry practice. In this way the aim will be to equip you with the theoretical underpinnings and practical skills that will allow you to compete successfully for graduate opportunities in the workplace for a variety of roles, across a range of organizations, both public and private sector. This course sits firmly in the area of computing, but varies from courses with a Computer Science focus in that it aims to provide you with a sound understanding of computer based Information Systems, by studying the four elements of Information Systems, i.e. Data, Technology, People and Organisations. As a graduate of this award you will have the knowledge of how Information Systems fits into organisations, both in the public and the private sector. You should be well placed to apply for graduate positions within Information Systems or IT departments. Long term aspirations should include the management and deployment of Information Systems at strategic levels within any organisation. Recognising the importance of employability, enterprise and entrepreneurship within a global context, the course aims to embed the facilitation of student attainment of Staffordshire Graduate attributes (*) and the assessment of that attainment as an important element of the award. The quality of the your experience underpins the success of all aspects of the award, and so the award aims to provide you with an enriching experience which supports and facilitates your personal, academic and professional development throughout your period of study with us, laying a foundation for continuing development throughout your life. (* see: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/why_staffs/staffordshire_graduate) 2
What is distinctive about this programme? There are a number of areas which make this programme distinctive: It has an optional placement. The students gain enormously from their experiences. The award is built on the theme of practical scholarship, the idea being that students are taught and develop transferable skills, rather than just learning theory. The placement helps to cement this by allowing the student to take what they have learnt in their first 2 years of study and apply it in a commercial environment. The course has at its core tradition Information Systems modules, that conform to national computing benchmarks, but the course content also contain novel areas such a Groupware and Social Computing. We are part of the SAP University Alliance which gives access to teaching material and a live environment to become a SAP expert. SAP is the leading ERP system in the world. The Staffordshire Graduate The Staffordshire Graduate represents a set of qualities that the University passionately believes is necessary for success in the 21st century. As a Staffordshire Graduate you will be a reflective and critical learner with a global perspective, prepared to contribute in the world of work. As an Information Systems Staffordshire Graduate you will be equipped with the theoretical underpinnings and practical skills that will allow you to compete successfully for graduate opportunities in the workplace. These will be in a variety of different roles, across a range of organisations, both public and private sector. As a Staffordshire Graduate you will have been immersed in the practical scholarship approach of the award will have all the required attributes that any potential employer would require. The Information Systems award structure and content is based on the requirements for accreditation by the British Computer Society The Chartered Institute for IT and this ensures as a graduate of this award you will the knowledge and skills appropriate for employment in the computing industry. Throughout your degree, you will be required to communicate in a variety of formats including design documents, written reports and individual and group presentations. You will work in teams to specify, design and develop appropriate information systems solutions using industry-standard techniques and processes. You will consider professional, organisational, ethical, legal and globalisation issues which are addressed at all levels. You will cover career development, from initial job applications to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and entrepreneurship. You are encouraged to enrol on the sandwich degree which involves a year s paid placement in the Computing industry, developing the full range of graduate attributes from understanding of enterprise and industrial relationships, to interacting confidently with colleagues, and communicating their experience in a formal report. The culmination of your study is the final year project, where you work independently to investigate, critically analyse, and create solutions to an information systems problem of your own choosing. Communication and presentation skills form an important part of the 3
project, and you have the opportunity to engage with local employers by presenting your work at GradEx, the graduate exhibition. Appendix 2 shows how the award is mapped to the criteria of the Staffordshire Graduate. 4
PROGRAMME OUTCOMES What will this programme teach me to do? At the end of your studies you should be able to: Knowledge & Understanding Demonstrate an understanding of the wider impact, both now and the in the future, of Information Systems. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of computing concepts and principles. Show that you have acquired coherent and detailed knowledge about the principles and practices of Information Systems, some of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of research and development in computing. Understand the issues, context and practices involved in working as a computing professional. Understand the impact of enterprise and business in both the computing and business world. Demonstrate an understanding of users and their requirements in business applications. Apply computing technologies to a wider context including data analytics and information systems. Learning Develop lines of argument and evaluate possible approaches, tools, techniques and solutions based on knowledge of underlying computing concepts and principles. Evaluate applications based on the knowledge and understanding gained Understand the limits of their knowledge and how they can search out the addition of further knowledge acquisition to remove deficiencies found. Understand the uncertainty, ambiguity and limitations of this knowledge. Enquiry Use recognised literature searching and requirements elicitation techniques to gather information about computer-based problems. Critically evaluate and manage the information collected. Analyse target audiences to evolve content for computing applications Critically evaluate and test any applications / designs / content produced Use, evaluate and manage information from a range of sources, acknowledging the cultural, ethical, economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information. Initiate and carry out projects within computing application development, taking into account current areas of research. Ethically gather information pertaining to Information Systems (or related technologies), suggest possible solutions, and the success of these solutions, from existing or potential users and/or organisations using valid techniques. Find, critically evaluate, manage, apply, and understand information from a range of sources, acknowledging the cultural, global, ethical, economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information. Extrapolate on current standards to form ideas of possible long term strategies in Information Systems and its application. 5
Analysis Critically discuss current practices in Information Systems. Describe and comment upon current research in Information Systems application and associated technologies, and critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, abstract concepts and data (that may be incomplete) to draw conclusions. Problem Solving Select and apply appropriate theory, practices and tools to develop computing based solutions to problems. Assess critically the appropriateness of different approaches to Information Systems design and applications. Propose and develop Information Systems solutions following analysis of problems and target audience criteria. Develop appropriate questions and strategies to achieve a solution, based on Information Systems associated technologies, (or identify a range of solutions) to a problem. Plan and carry out a large and complex Information Systems project using current associated technologies. Communication Communicate information effectively to specialist audiences using appropriate documentation techniques, including, but not limited to: written academic reports; verbal presentations; documentation in support of the design and development of Information Systems applications. Communicate designs and proposals for computing application content using appropriate techniques. Communicate ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences in a variety of forms. Application Apply, in previously unseen contexts, appropriate standards, concepts, principles and techniques to design, create and test applications. Apply knowledge of target audience, current standards and possible environments, including those at the forefront of Information Systems and associated technologies, in the process of solving problems or producing improved solutions. Reflection Demonstrate the ability to take responsibility for learning. Demonstrate the ability to work both independently and as team member. Demonstrate an understanding of professional responsibility (including quality and safety issues); the ethical, legal and social context in which solutions based on application development and associated technologies are developed and operate; the need for continuing professional development and lifelong learning; the role of computing based solutions and systems within organisations; and the opportunities and skills needed for entrepreneurship. 6
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE, MODULES AND CREDITS L E V E L 4 Teaching Block 1 Teaching Block 2 COCS40691 Fundamentals of Computing and Maths * COSE40671 Software Development COIS40899 Social Media For Business COIS41163 Business Information Systems in Organisations COWB40364 Digital Application Development L E V E L 5 Teaching Block 1 Teaching Block 2 COIS51045 Enterprise Application Development * COIS51030 Professional Computing * COIS51031 E-Business Management L5 Option 30 credits Placement year on industry for those students on the sandwich version of the award L5 Options: COWB50348 Visual Web Design COCS50694 Networking Fundamentals COIS50950 Strategic Information Systems Management All option modules may not be available in any given academic year and any choices is subject to timetable availability/restrictions. 7
L E V E L 6 Teaching Block 1 Teaching Block 2 COIS61028 Level 6 Project * L6 Option (15 credits) COIS60918 Enterprise Data COIS61018 Practical Collaboration with Cloud Technologies L6 Options: COIS60760 Information Systems Engineering In Industry COIS61184 Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining COIS60779 Knowledge Management in Organisations COIS61080 Entrepreneurship COIS6xxxx Contemporary Issues in IT *This module explicitly focuses on significant elements required for the achievement of the STAFFORDSHIRE GRADUATE ATTRIBUTES. All option modules may not be available in any given academic year and any choices is subject to timetable availability/restrictions. 8
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT AND ASSESSED? Teaching and Learning We use a wide variety of teaching and learning strategies and these will differ from module to module depending on the module subject. Generally, there will be a number of lectures and practical s (lab based sessions) and/or tutorials (theory based sessions). You will also be involved in presentations and seminars and will be expected to carry out self-directed learning. The sandwich (placement) year allows you to apply and extend your skills in industry. Some of your assignments will require specialist software. Details will be available from the module leader, but generally, the specialist labs in the School are available in the evenings and at weekends although times and opening arrangements vary. The library offers 24-hour access but some specialist software may not be available in the library. To find out which software is available in which labs please check: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/academic_depts/computing/facilities/index.jsp Whilst you are studying the BSc Information Systems course you will be experiencing a number of learning and teaching strategies that will include, but not be limited to: Formal Lectures These are normally held within one of the University s lecture theatres where a member of the academic staff will present one of more topics within a particular module. As a student, you will be expected to attend these lectures, make notes and then review the material after the lecture. Tutorials During these sessions, you can expect to experience a number of different learning and teaching strategies being used that could range from a series of discussion to paper exercises. In all cases the material will be relevant to the module and often supporting the topics covered in earlier lectures. Practical laboratory sessions These will be held within one of the many laboratories that we have within the University. The actual work carried out will be dependent upon each module and, as with tutorial sessions, will often be based upon topics covered within lectures. In most cases, you can expect that the work will be design, development, or programming exercises that have been developed to help you understand aspects of the topics being covered by the module. Directed Study Here, lecturers and tutors may direct you to undertake independent or group work that is both relevant to the module and the assessment that is part of the module. It may be that you are required to undertake some research etc. that will be used in a following lecture or tutorial. You may often find that you are required to carry out this work outside of the module s normal contact time as part of your Self-Managed time (see below). 9
Self-Managed Study This is the time that you can use to continue the module s work in your own time, be it writing up lecture notes, preparing for lectures / tutorials / practical sessions or just reading around the various topics that are included within the modules that make up your award. You will also use this time for revision, if you have test and / or examinations as well as working on any coursework that you have been given. Research Projects As you progress through your award you will undertake several research based projects either individually or within a group. You will find that in doing these projects you will take a high level of identifying and determining what you are to research. Your learning will be supported by lectures, tutorials, and progress related surgeries where you can show your progress for feedback from a tutor. This list is non exhaustive. Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Every module on your award will have a presence on the Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment. You will find Blackboard important as here you will find a repository of lecture slides, tutorial sheets, supplementary materials, assignment specifications, and sample examinations. You will also find that for some modules discussion forums will also be available. Apart from providing you with learning materials you will also find that you will submit your completed assignments through Blackboard, and throughout on most modules receive formative (practice) assessments. In completion of your summative (actual) assessments you will receive your final grade and feedback. As a final facility you will also be able to feedback your experience of studying the module. For disabled students there are available facilities to adapt documents in order to make material readable to a given disability. Assessment You can expect to experience a selection of the following assessment methods: Individual coursework assignments Group work assignments Individual presentations Group presentations Demonstrations (e.g. of a piece of code that you have written) Written reports Laboratory log books In class tests End of module examinations Research and Technical Papers As above, this list is non exhaustive. You will find within all your modules that staff will have built in opportunities for you to seek formative (work in progress) feedback to help strengthen and develop your assessment work, as well as summative (final) feedback at the end of the module. Both formative and summative feedback are important in developing and preparing you for your next set of modules and assessments. 10
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Entry Requirements (including IELTS score) What qualifications would I need to join this programme? The entry requirements for the award are normally: 280 UCAS Tariff Points. You will also normally require a Maths and English GCSE at grade C (or an equivalent qualification) For students whose first language is not English, we require an IELTS score of at least 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands) or an equivalent qualification is required for this award. For more details about undergraduate study please see http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/undergraduate_courses/ For more information on Staffordshire University s Undergraduate entry requirements please consult http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/undergraduate_courses/entry_requirements/ Disability Statement Staffordshire University operates a policy of inclusive teaching and learning to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to fulfil their educational potential. Details about how to apply to have your needs assessed can be found at: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/disabled_students/index.jsp 11
AWARD SPECIFIC INFORMATION The following award specific regulations apply. Industrial placement The industrial placement normally requires the completion of 48 weeks in relevant supervised work experience taken between level 5 and level 6. However, exceptionally for placements in School environments (where the nature of the employment precludes the completion of 48 weeks), the completion of 36 weeks is acceptable. Normally if you are enrolled on a sandwich award, you must pass the sandwich year to progress to level 6. However, in exceptional circumstances the completion of the industrial placement may be deferred until after the completion of level 6. Where this occurs you will still be required to pass an industrial placement before you can be awarded a sandwich degree. If you fail the industrial placement period, you will only be allowed one further attempt. The referral attempt must normally occur within 18 months. Failure at the referral attempt will mean that you cannot further progress on a sandwich award. You would have to transfer onto an appropriate non-sandwich full-time award in order to continue. The placement period is not compensatable. To be eligible for the award of an Honours degree with a sandwich, you must pass the industrial placement period. Transfer between a sandwich award and a non sandwich award You may opt to transfer from a non-sandwich award to an appropriate sandwich award at any time. You may transfer from a sandwich version of your award to a non-sandwich version, at any time up until the end of week 2 of the first teaching block of level 5. However, after week 2 of the first teaching block of level 5, the transfer is only permitted if one or more of the following criteria are met: 1. You are unable, for valid reasons e.g. extenuating circumstances, to undertake or complete an industrial placement; 2. Having attempted the industrial placement, you have failed it; 3. You have BOTH been unable to secure a placement 12 months after the start of level 5, AND have a portfolio of evidence that shows that you have made a bona fide attempt to obtain a placement. The decision as to whether the portfolio of evidence shows that you have made a bona fide attempt is at the discretion of the Academic Placements tutor. Further information about the award can be found in the relevant Student Handbook and on the University Website. This includes information about optional modules, learning outcomes at levels below honours, student support, and academic regulations 12
Appendix 1 Award Learning Outcomes On completion of study, a BSc Information Systems student will be able to: Common learning outcome Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 Knowledge and Understanding Demonstrate knowledge of underlying computing concepts and principles: [SRCA 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8; ATS 2] Programming fundamentals Techniques for computer system development, including requirements elicitation and analysis, business analysis, systems analysis and design tools and techniques, and testing Database design and development, in particular for use in Information Systems Structure and operation of hardware, networks and systems required for interactive systems development Demonstrate knowledge of underlying computing concepts and principles: [SRCA 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8; ATS 2] The issues, context and practices involved in working as a computing professional. The basic principles and issues involved in enterprise and business The issues involved in application development professions The methods / tools utilized in designing and / or building applications Demonstrate an understanding of the wider impact, both now and the in the future, of industry standards and development technologies Demonstrate knowledge of underlying computing concepts and principles: [SRCA 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8; ATS 2] The issues, context and practices involved in working as a computing professional. The basic principles and issues involved in enterprise and business The issues involved in development professions The methods / tools utilized in designing and / or building applications Further an understanding of the wider impact, both now and the in the future, of industry standards and development technologies 13
Common learning outcome Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 Mathematical foundations for interactive systems Web Standards principles Application Development principles and practice The issues, context and practices involved in working as a computing professional. Learning [SRCA 4, 6; SRPS 2] Develop lines of argument and evaluate possible approaches, tools, techniques and solutions based on knowledge of underlying computing concepts and principles. Understand the limits of their knowledge, and how this influences analyses and interpretations based on that knowledge. Understand the uncertainty, ambiguity and limitations of this knowledge [SRCA 4, 6; SRPS 2] Further lines of argument and evaluate complex approaches, tools, techniques and solutions based on knowledge of underlying computing concepts and principles. Evaluate applications based on the knowledge and understanding gained Understand the limits of their knowledge, and how this influences analyses and interpretations based on that knowledge. [SRCA 4, 6; SRPS 2] Develop lines of argument and evaluate possible approaches, tools, techniques and solutions based on knowledge of underlying computing concepts and principles. Critically evaluate applications based on the knowledge and understanding gained Understand the limits of their knowledge, and how this influences analyses and interpretations based on that knowledge. 14
Common learning outcome Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 Enquiry [SRCA 4; ATS 1, 2] Use recognised literature searching and requirements elicitation techniques to gather information about computerbased problems. Use, evaluate and manage information from a range of sources, acknowledging the cultural, ethical, economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information. Initiate and carry out projects within Information Systems, taking into account current areas of research Understand the uncertainty, ambiguity and limitations of this knowledge [SRCA 4; ATS 1, 2] Use recognised literature searching and requirements elicitation techniques to gather information about computerbased problems. Evaluate and manage the information collected. Analyse target audiences to evolve content for applications Evaluate and test any applications / designs / content produced Manage information from a range of sources, acknowledging the cultural, ethical, economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information. Initiate and carry out projects within Information Systems, Understand the uncertainty, ambiguity and limitations of this knowledge [SRCA 4; ATS 1, 2] Use recognised literature searching and requirements elicitation techniques to gather information about computer-based problems. Critically evaluate and manage the information collected. Analyse target audiences to evolve content for applications Initiate and carry out projects within Information Systems, taking into account current areas of research Ethically gather information pertaining to Information Systems (or related technologies), suggest possible solutions, and the success of these solutions, from existing or potential users and/or organisations using valid techniques Extrapolate on current standards to form ideas of possible long term 15
Common learning outcome Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 taking into account current areas of research strategies in industry standards and Information Systems Analysis [SRCA 1; SRPS 2; ATS 1] Use established investigation techniques to: Evaluate and interpret the fundamental computing concepts and principles introduced at this Level. Critically discuss current practices in Information Systems Ethically gather information pertaining to Information Systems (or related technologies). [SRCA 1; SRPS 2; ATS 1] Use established investigation techniques to: Evaluate and interpret the fundamental computing concepts and principles introduced at this Level. Analyse requirements to design and create databases suitable for Information Systems Critically discuss current practices in Information Systems [SRCA 1; SRPS 2; ATS 1] Use established investigation techniques to: Critically discuss current practices in Information Systems Describe and comment upon current research in Information Systems, and critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, abstract concepts and data (that may be incomplete) to draw conclusions Problem Solving [SRCA 5, 6; SRPS 1, 2, 3, 5; ATS 3] Describe and comment upon current research in web development and associated technologies. [SRCA 5,6; SRPS 1,2,3,5; ATS3] [SRCA 5,6; SRPS 1,2, 3, 5; ATS 3] 16
Common learning outcome Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 Select and apply appropriate theory, practices and tools to develop computing-based solutions to problems. Develop appropriate questions and strategies to achieve a solution based business information associated technologies, (or identify a range of solutions) to a problem. Communication [SRCA 5, 7; SRPS 4] Document the development, design and testing of computer-based solutions in a structured manner. Communicate designs and proposals for Information Systems using appropriate techniques Assess the appropriateness of different approaches to designing and developing applications. Propose and develop application solutions following analysis of problems and target audience criteria. [SRCA 5, 7; SRPS 4] Communicate information effectively to specialist audiences using appropriate documentation techniques and report formats Communicate designs and proposals for Information Systems using appropriate techniques Assess critically the appropriateness of different approaches to designing and developing applications. Plan and carry out a large and complex Information Systems project using current associated technologies [SRCA 5, 7; SRPS 4] Communicate designs and proposals for Information Systems using appropriate techniques Communicate ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and nonspecialist audiences in a variety of forms Write a structured formal report using appropriate referencing, and techniques for documentation. Application [SRCA 6; SRPS 1, 5; ATS 2, 3] [SRCA 6; SRPS 1, 5; ATS 2, 3] [SRCA 6; SRPS 1, 5; ATS 2, 3] 17
Common learning outcome Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 Apply fundamental computing concepts and principles in the process of solving mathematical and computingbased problems Apply knowledge of current standards, including those at the forefront of Information Systems and associated technologies, in the process of solving problems or producing improved solutions. Apply appropriate standards, concepts, principles and techniques to design, create and test applications Apply knowledge of target audience in the process of solving problems or producing improved solutions. Apply, in previously unseen contexts, appropriate standards, concepts, principles and techniques to design, create and test applications Apply knowledge of target audience, current standards and possible environments, including those at the forefront of Information Systems and associated technologies, in the process of solving problems or producing improved solutions. Reflection Apply current techniques to design and create databases suitable for projects of the level of student knowledge Demonstrate: Demonstrate: Demonstrate: [SRCA 8; ATS 4, 5, 6] [SRCA 8; ATS 4, 5, 6] [SRCA 8; ATS 4, 5, 6] the ability to take responsibility for learning the ability to take responsibility for learning the ability to take responsibility for learning the ability to work both independently and as team member. an understanding of professional responsibility the ability to work both independently and as team member. an understanding of professional responsibility (including quality the ability to work both independently and as team member. an understanding of professional responsibility (including quality and safety issues); the ethical, legal and 18
Common learning outcome Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 (including quality and safety issues); the need for continuing professional development and lifelong learning; the role of computing-based solutions and systems within organisations; and safety issues); the ethical, legal and social context in which solutions based on Information Systems and associated technologies are developed and operate; the need for continuing professional development and lifelong learning; the role of computing-based solutions and systems within organisations; and the opportunities and skills needed for entrepreneurship. Computing Benchmark skills and abilities mapped: SRCA 1-8; SRPS 1-5; ATS 1-6. social context in which solutions based on Information Systems and associated technologies are developed and operate; the need for continuing professional development and lifelong learning; the role of computing-based solutions and systems within organisations; and the opportunities and skills needed for entrepreneurship. Benchmark mapping via learning outcomes (Undergraduate). The learning outcomes are mapped onto the abilities and skills identified by the Computing Benchmark Statement which broadly fall into three categories of computing-related cognitive abilities, computing-related practical abilities, and additional transferable skills, all of which are developed within the context of the computing discipline (see below for an extract from the Computing Benchmark Statement that delineates these various abilities and provides the numbering system used). In the tables below where the Computing Benchmark Statement is referenced the following abbreviations are used: SRCA = Subject-related Cognitive Ability; SRPS = Subject-related Practical Skill; ATS = Additional Transferable Skill. After each statement of a learning outcome, there follows in square brackets the relevant Benchmark Statement skills and abilities that the achievement of the learning outcome supports. 19
Please note that the Benchmark Statement abilities and skills represent the Benchmark abilities and skills associated with the completion of level 4, level 5, and level 6. The abilities and skills given for a particular level are therefore cumulative and do not solely relate to the abilities and skills achieved at a given level, but to the abilities and skills achieved over the award period that culminates in that level. EXTRACT from the Computing Benchmark Statement Note with skills/abilities numbered as reference for mapping from Learning Outcome tables 3 Abilities and skills - numbered 3.1 Students are expected to develop a wide range of abilities and skills. These may be divided into three broad categories: i computing-related cognitive abilities and skills, ie abilities and skills relating to intellectual tasks ii computing-related practical skills iii additional transferable skills that may be developed in the context of computing but which are of a general nature and applicable in many other contexts. 3.2 Cognitive, practical and generic skills need to be placed in the context of the programme of study as designed by the institution and/or the possible pathways selected by the individual student. The implicit interplay between these identified skills both within and across these three categories is recognised. Subject-related cognitive abilities 1. Computational thinking including its relevance to everyday life. 2. Knowledge and understanding: demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles and theories relating to computing and computer applications as appropriate to the programme of study. 3. Modelling: use such knowledge and understanding in the modelling and design of computer-based systems for the purposes of comprehension, communication, prediction and the understanding of trade-offs. 20
4. Requirements, practical constraints and computer-based systems (and this includes computer systems, information systems, embedded systems and distributed systems) in their context: recognise and analyse criteria and specifications appropriate to specific problems, and plan strategies for their solution. 5. Critical evaluation and testing: analyse the extent to which a computer-based system meets the criteria defined for its current use and future development. 6. Methods and tools: deploy appropriate theory, practices and tools for the specification, design, implementation and evaluation of computer-based systems. 7. Reflection and communication: present succinctly to a range of audiences (orally, electronically or in writing) rational and reasoned arguments that address a given information handling problem or opportunity. This should include assessment of the impact of new technologies. 8. Professional considerations: recognise the professional, economic, social, environmental, moral and ethical issues involved in the sustainable exploitation of computer technology and be guided by the adoption of appropriate professional, ethical and legal practices. Subject-related practical abilities 1. The ability to specify, design and construct computer-based systems. 2. The ability to evaluate systems in terms of general quality attributes and possible trade-offs presented within the given problem. 3. The ability to recognise any risks or safety aspects that may be involved in the operation of computing equipment within a given context. 4. The ability to deploy effectively the tools used for the construction and documentation of computer applications, with particular emphasis on understanding the whole process involved in the effective deployment of computers to solve practical problems. 5. The ability to operate computing equipment effectively, taking into account its logical and physical properties. 3.3 The extent to which students acquire these abilities will depend on the emphasis of individual degree programmes. It is expected, however, that the student will be able to deploy these abilities to a greater and deeper extent than someone who is merely an interested practitioner. 21
Additional transferable skills 1. Effective information-retrieval skills (including the use of browsers, search engines and catalogues). 2. Numeracy and literacy in both understanding and presenting cases involving a quantitative and qualitative dimension. 3. Effective use of general information technology (IT) facilities. 4. The ability to work as a member of a development team, recognising the different roles within a team and different ways of organising teams. 5. Managing one's own learning and development including time management and organisational skills. 6. Appreciating the need for continuing professional development in recognition of the need for lifelong learning. 22
APPENDIX 2 - THE STAFFORDSHIRE GRADUATE The Staffordshire Graduate represents a set of qualities that the University passionately believes is necessary for success in the 21 st century. The Staffordshire Graduate is a reflective and critical learner with a global perspective, prepared to contribute in the world of work. The table below indicates where, within your award, these characteristics are addressed: AWARD TITLE: BSc (Hons) Information Systems Characteristic Award Module(s) including level and number of credits 1. Work-ready and employable Method of Assessment The subject discipline of this award focuses on the development of knowledge and skills that are directly relevant to employment within the computing industry. Thus most subject specific modules across the award contribute to the development of subject discipline specific knowledge and skills that support employability. The modules identified below are those modules that focus on the development of generic and transferable knowledge and skills that prepare you for employment and a future career. L5 Professional Computing (30 credits) Assessment consisting of presentations, and portfolio. Develops skills such as being interviewed and CV creation. 2. Understanding of enterprise and entrepreneurship L4 Business Information Systems in Organisations (30 credits) Group coursework based on business analysis and needs. Gives students the ability to analyse how companies work and the roles involved. Level 6 Project (45 credits) The entire project is used by the student to solve a business / commercial problem. The assessment is 100% written dissertation, with a mid-point interview and final presentation / demonstration. L5 Professional Computing (30 credits) Assessment consisting of presentations, and portfolio. Will develop the students thinking related to opportunities and their development. 23
L4 Business Information Systems in Organisations (30 credits) Group coursework focusing specifically on designing for business needs. Coursework includes scenario based assignment that should help to instil skills related to enterprise and entrepreneurship. Level 6 Project (45 credits) The entire project is used by the student to solve a business / commercial problem. The assessment is 100% written dissertation, with a mid-point interview and final presentation / demonstration. 3. Understanding of global issues and their place in the global economy 4. Communication skills L5 Professional Computing (30 credits) L5 Enterprise Application Development (30 credits) L4 Fundamentals of Computing and Mathematics (30 credits) L5 Professional Computing (30 credits) L4 Business Information Systems in Organisations (30 credits) Level 6 Project (45 Credit) Assessed by coursework. The module has a particular focus on global business issues. Group coursework focusing specifically on designing for business needs. Being web based this will address global issues. Both written and presentation skills are developed through the assessment. Assessment that uses a portfolio for communication skills development focusing specifically on written and presentation skills. Group coursework developing group working. This module enables theory and learning to be put directly in the workplace. You prepare technical documentation for every stage of the development process, including an academic literature review, and make a presentation to subject experts. 5. Presentation skills L4 Fundamentals of Computing and Mathematics (30 Credits) Level 6 Project (45 credits) Most core modules To initiate student s development at level 4 this module gets students to create artefacts based on several aspects of computing and present and demonstrate these. Part of the 100% coursework assessment of the project module involves a mid-point interview and a final viva. Both aspects of assessment involve the creation of slides and a presentation. Most core modules will involve creating an artefact and this will be presented to staff for assessment 24
6. The ability to interact confidently with colleagues L5 Professional Computing (30 credits) This attribute will be simulated in classes and the assessment to develop such skills before students go out on the placement year. Level 6 Project (45 credits) The coursework consisting of a dissertation and final viva / presentation. The interaction will be related to a supervisor, test subjects, and business people and the public at the end of year Gradex exhibition. 7. Independence of thought L4 Business Information Systems in Organisations (30 credits) Level 6 Project (45 credits) Core modules This module will enable a lot of independent though to take place as students are required to develop requirements and produce an end solution to a problem. The Level 6 Project will provide ample opportunity for the student to put together all their learning and show independence of thought in solving a large problem. All modules will enable the student to show some level of independence of thought as they will need for all to show skills and knowledge of planning, time management, design, and solution realisation 8. Skills of teamworking 9. Ability to carry out inquirybased learning and critical analysis L4 Fundamentals of Computing and Mathematics (30 credits) Core modules Level 6 Project (45 credits) Core modules This coursework component will enable the students to allocate individual business / computing roles in order to solve a problem that requires co-ordinated teamwork. Several other modules will involve to some extent the skills of teamworking. The dissertation aspect of the Level 6 Project requires extensive critical analysis at its end as it is the culmination of a 45 credit project. Most award modules will involve directly including aspects of inquirybased learning and critical analysis. 25
10. Skills of problem solving and creation of opportunities 11. Technologically, digitally and information literate 12. Able to apply Staffordshire Graduate attributes to a range of life experiences to facilitate lifelong learning L5 Enterprise Data Applications (30 credits) L4 Fundamentals of Computing and Mathematics (30 credits) Level 6 Project (45 credits) Several core modules Assessed 100% through the group project. This requires you to decide which problem to address and how to tackle the problem. Assessment point 1 produce a system specification with supporting documentation and evaluation of the approach taken This module gets students to think specifically about technical opportunities. You plan and write a critical review of the academic literature related to the topic of the project. This is assessed by report and presentation. You design and implement an artefact that solves a challenging problem. This is assessed by report, presentation, and demonstration. Most modules will address this criteria to some extent. The subject discipline of this award focuses on the development of knowledge and skills that are directly relevant to employment within the computing industry. Thus most subject specific modules across the award contribute to the development of subject discipline specific knowledge and skills that support employability. The modules identified below are those modules that focus on the development of generic and transferable knowledge and skills that prepare you for employment and a future career. Level 6 Project (45 credits) Part-time jobs Extra-curricular roles such being a student ambassador Industrial Placement (0 credits) You conduct an extensive critical review of the academic literature related to the topic of the project. This is written as an academic report that includes an analysis of how the findings of the review apply to the project. Non-assessed Non-assessed, but feedback can be given from the university 100% assessed opportunity which can give guidance and advice as to the student s future development. 26
Level 6 Project (45 credits) You conduct an extensive critical review of the academic literature related to the topic of the project. In addition, you augment all that has previously been learned by consulting sources of technical information to aid in the development of a complex solution to a real-world problem. This is assessed via academic report, presentation, and demonstration of the artefact. 27