Unit rationale, description and aim
This foundation level unit introduces the basic knowledge and techniques needed to use computer systems effectively. It covers several key concepts of computer systems and networks such as evolution of computers, advanced computer hardware, number representation, digital circuit design, applied networking, virtualisation, computer security, and cloud computing. The unit also embeds a digital health case study that showcases how information technology is playing a significant role in the advancement of the health sector all around the world. These building blocks of IT systems are crucial for students to grasp the knowledge and technical skills in other IT units.
The aim of this unit is to provide fundamental knowledge of Information Technology capabilities and build essential skills required to manage an IT system for an organisation. Students will also learn how to use IT to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of resource use such as natural, human, and financial resources.
Learning outcomes
To successfully complete this unit you will be able to demonstrate you have achieved the learning outcomes (LO) detailed in the below table.
Each outcome is informed by a number of graduate capabilities (GC) to ensure your work in this, and every unit, is part of a larger goal of graduating from ACU with the attributes of insight, empathy, imagination and impact.
Explore the graduate capabilities.
Identify common computer hardware and software ele...
Learning Outcome 01
Assess and critically analyse the available soluti...
Learning Outcome 02
Design a cost-effective networking solution using ...
Learning Outcome 03
Apply principles underlying the ethical aspects, s...
Learning Outcome 04
Content
Topics covered:
Topics covered:
• Hardware and Software.
• Database System and Management.
• Networking concepts.
• Cloud Azure Fundamentals
• Cloud computing and Internet of Things.
• Business Information Systems.
• E-commerce.
• Business Intelligence: Big Data and Analytics
• Artificial Intelligence
Assessment strategy and rationale
A range of assessment procedures will be used to meet the unit learning outcomes and develop graduate attributes consistent with University assessment requirements. The first assessment provides students with an opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and gain practical skills. The second assessment provides opportunities for students to understand core concepts of digital logics through a game design using logic circuits. The final assessment will develop students’ knowledge and skills on general technology concepts, including concepts of networking, storage, compute, application support, and application development.
To pass this unit, students must demonstrate competence in all learning outcomes and achieve an aggregate mark of at least 50%. Marking will be in accordance with a rubric specifically developed to measure students’ level of achievement of the learning outcomes for each item of assessment. Students will be awarded a final grade which signifies their overall achievement in the unit.
Overview of assessments
Multimode
Task 1: Lab assessment This assessment consists ...
Task 1: Lab assessment
This assessment consists of a series of lab exercises that will assist students to transfer their theoretical knowledge to practical skills with the help of lab instructor. The exercises will be collated by students and submitted as a portfolio of work.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: Lab Practical task
Artefact: Source Code/Lab report
20%
Task 2: In Class - Critical Analysis and Quizzes ...
Task 2: In Class - Critical Analysis and Quizzes
The primary objective of this assessment is to empower students to recognize, anticipate, and resolve industry problems of varying complexity. It also serves as an opportunity for students to explore and evaluate the latest advancements in technology. The assessment is divided into two sections. In the first section, students engage in critical analysis of current research issues and developments in IT, while providing optimal recommendations. The second section requires students to demonstrate their understanding through class quizzes.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: In class assessment
Artefacts: Critical analysis report
30%
Task 3: In Class - Critical Analysis and Quizzes ...
Task 3: In Class - Critical Analysis and Quizzes
The primary objective of this assessment is to empower students to recognize, anticipate, and resolve industry problems of varying complexity. It also serves as an opportunity for students to explore and evaluate the latest advancements in technology. The assessment is divided into two sections. In the first section, students engage in critical analysis of current research issues and developments in IT, while providing optimal recommendations. The second section requires students to demonstrate their understanding through class quizzes.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: In class assessment
Artefacts: Critical analysis report
50%
Online
Task 1: Practical Exercises This assessment cons...
Task 1: Practical Exercises
This assessment consists of a series of practical exercises that will assist students to transfer their theoretical knowledge to practical skills. The exercises will be collated by students and submitted as a single file.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: Practical tasks
Artefact: Logisim circuit/report
20%
Task 2: In Class - Critical Analysis and Quizzes ...
Task 2: In Class - Critical Analysis and Quizzes
The primary objective of this assessment is to empower students to recognize, anticipate, and resolve industry problems of varying complexity. It also serves as an opportunity for students to explore and evaluate the latest advancements in technology. The assessment is divided into two sections. In the first section, students engage in critical analysis of current research issues and developments in IT, while providing optimal recommendations. The second section requires students to demonstrate their understanding through class quizzes.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: In class assessment
Artefacts: Critical analysis report
30%
Task 3: In Class - Critical Analysis and Quizzes ...
Task 3: In Class - Critical Analysis and Quizzes
The primary objective of this assessment is to empower students to recognize, anticipate, and resolve industry problems of varying complexity. It also serves as an opportunity for students to explore and evaluate the latest advancements in technology. The assessment is divided into two sections. In the first section, students engage in critical analysis of current research issues and developments in IT, while providing optimal recommendations. The second section requires students to demonstrate their understanding through class quizzes.
Submission Type: Individual
Assessment Method: In class assessment
Artefacts: Critical analysis report
50%
Learning and teaching strategy and rationale
Multimode
This unit will be delivered in multimode over a twelve-week semester or equivalent study period. Students will have access to all primary learning materials online, along with formative and summative assessments, all of which will be available online, to provide a learning experience beyond the classroom. While there are no formal classroom lectures for this unit, students will be required to attend weekly three-hour workshops, which will include a seminar and specific tasks related to achievement of the unit learning outcomes. Workshops facilitate learning by doing, which is particularly effective for information technology units as technical skills can be better learned through hands on practices.
ACU Online
This unit uses an active learning approach to support students in the exploration of knowledge essential to the discipline. Students are provided with choice and variety in how they learn. Students are encouraged to contribute to asynchronous weekly discussions. Active learning opportunities provide students with opportunities to practice and apply their learning in situations similar to their future professions. Activities encourage students to bring their own examples to demonstrate understanding, application and engage constructively with their peers. Students receive regular and timely feedback on their learning, which includes information on their progress.
Representative texts and references
Required Text
R. Stair, G. Reynolds. Principles of Information Systems. 14th Edition. 2021. Cengage Publisher.
Reference Text
R. Stair, G. Reynolds. Fundamentals of Information Systems. 9th Edition. Cengage Publisher.
Blundell B. G, Khan N, Lasebae A, Jabbar M, 2007, Computer Systems and Networks, Cernage Learning EMEA, ISBN: 9781844806393.
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification and Beyond : Simplified Cloud Concepts and Core Azure Fundamentals for Absolute Beginners to Pass the AZ-900 Exam, Birmingham, Packt Publishing, Limited,, 2022.
Kurose JF & Ross KW 2016, Computer Networking A Top-Down Approach,7th edn, Addison Wesley, New Jersey.
Rountree D & Castrillo I 2013, The Basics of Cloud Computing Understanding the Fundamentals of Cloud Computing in Theory and Practice. Elsevier Science, Burlington.