ITEC611 - Computer Networks

Year

Credit points

Campus offering

Prerequisites

Nil

Teaching organisation

150 hours over a twelve-week semester or equivalent study period

Unit rationale, description and aim

Almost all computing devices from super computers to personal computers and even to mobile devices are connected using computer networks. The rapid advancement of communication technologies and the long-established use of local area networks have made the study of computer networks as important as the more traditional foundations of information technology such as computer architecture and programming. There is a need of professionals who exercise knowledge and leadership in the area of computer networks and its applications. This unit covers the fundamental topics of computer networks and data communication. The unit demonstrates the basic networking concepts, OSI and TCP/IP networking model, functionalities and characteristics of different layers, network devices, and protocols. Students will learn how these devices and protocols are used in computer networks and application programs. The practical works will help students to learn how to design, configure, build and test a small-scale peer-to-peer network for an organisation. In addition, the unit focuses on designing a network solution that utilises optimal resources and thus, aims to minimise negative impacts on the environment. 

In a nutshell, the unit aims to equip students with background knowledge in computer networking, which scaffolds an advanced unit in emerging technologies of blockchain and IoT. It will produce graduates with i) a wide range of professional knowledge and skills relevant to networking and communication technologies, ii) adaptability to changing technology and society, iii) capability to design network solutions utilising minimal computing resources, and iv) prepare them for CCNA1 certification exam.

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.

On successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

LO1 - Identify basic components of networking devices such as switch and router, configure and troubleshoot these devices (GA5, GA8)

LO2 - Design and implement a hierarchical IPv4 and IPv6 addressing scheme to ensure an effective network for stewardship of resources (GA2, GA5)

LO3 - Describe the characteristics and functionalities of each layer of the OSI and TCP/IP model (GA4, GA5)

LO4 - Plan, build, and test a small network using packet tracer network simulator (GA5, GA10).

Graduate attributes

GA2 - recognise their responsibility to the common good, the environment and society 

GA4 - think critically and reflectively 

GA5 - demonstrate values, knowledge, skills and attitudes appropriate to the discipline and/or profession 

GA8 - locate, organise, analyse, synthesise and evaluate information 

GA10 - utilise information and communication and other relevant technologies effectively.

Content

Topics will include:

• Basic switch and end device configuration
• Protocols and models
• Physical layer
• Data link layer
• Network layer
• IP addressing
• Subnetting
• Transport layer
• Application layer
• Build a small network

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 through LEO, 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 workshops and labs, which will include a seminar and specific tasks related to achievement of the unit learning outcomes. Workshops and labs 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.

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 task will help to gain practical knowledge on subnetting which ensure optimal uses of network resources. The final assessment item includes a case scenario where students need to apply their knowledge and skills to find configuration errors, apply patches to make the network operational.

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;

Online

Representative texts and references

Cisco Networking Academy, Introduction to Networks Companion Guide (CCNAv7), 2020.

T McMillan, CISCO Networking Essentials, Sybex, 2nd edition, 2015.

P L Dordal, An Introduction to Computer Networks (e-book), Second edition, 2020.