Plymouth University

Academic Partnerships

Truro & Penwith College

Programme Quality

Handbook for

FdSc Computer Technology

2017 – 18

Contents

1.Welcome and Introduction to FdSc Computer Technology.

2.Programme Specification

3.Module Records

Truro and Penwith College, FdSc Computer Technology,Programme Quality Handbook 2017-18

Last saved: August 2017Page 1 of 62

Content

1.Welcome and Introduction toFdSc ComputerTechnology

Welcome to the Foundation Degree in Computer Technology. This programme has been devised to develop a wide range of employable skills and knowledge in the field of computing, and is the result of consultations with employers, experts and Plymouth University, as well as the specialist skills of staff involved in the programme. In it you will build on some aspects of computing that you already know, but will also come across new and challenging work that will broaden your expertise and make you aware of new possibilities. Apart from learning about computer systems and networks, you will also be developing skills in digital media, web sites, databases and working with real clients and organisations. Particularly in the second year you will be developing skills to prepare you for higher level employment.

This programme has been designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge relevant to your chosen specialism and other graduate opportunities. It is also a platform from which you can undertake additional vocational and academic qualifications.

This Programme Quality Handbook contains important information including:

  • The Approved Programme Specification
  • Module Records

Note: the information in this handbook should be read in conjunction with the current edition of the Truro and Penwith Student Handbook available on Digital Campus which contains student support based information on issues such as finance and studying at HE along with the University’s Student Handbook and your Learning, Teaching and AssessmentHandbook available on your programme virtual learning environment (Moodle).

.

2.Programme Specification

Awarding Institution:Plymouth University

Teaching Institution:Truro and Penwith College

Accrediting Body:N/A

Final Award:FdSc

Intermediate Awards:Certificate of Higher Education (Cert HE)

Programme Title:Computer Technology

UCAS Code:I100

JACS CodeI100

BenchmarksThe programme learning outcomes are consistent with the Foundation degree level of the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

Subject benchmark statements Computing(honours)(QAA 2008)inform the design and content of this programme at an appropriate level.

Date of Approval:March 2012

Admissions Criteria:

Qualification(s) Required for Entry to the FdSc / Comments
Candidates must have at Level 2:
At Level 2
Key Skills requirement/Higher Level Diploma / Pass-Communication, Numeracy and IT
and/or
GCSEs required at Grade C and above / English and Maths
Plus at least one of the following Level 3 qualifications:
A Levels required: / 24 points at A2 normally in an appropriate subject
Advanced Level Diploma / Pass in an IT-related programme
BTEC National Certificate/Diploma / Pass normally in an appropriate subject
HNC/D / Pass normally in an appropriate subject
VDA: AGNVQ, AVCE, AVS / Pass required normally in an appropriate subject
Access to HE or Year 0 provision / Pass – all subjects accepted but maths/science IT related work preferred
International Baccalaureate / 16 points
Irish/Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers / Grade D - 33/72 points respectively - All subjects accepted but maths/science IT related work preferred
Work Experience / Normally students will have experience in some form of IT / computing role
Other non-standard awards or experiences / Normally students will have experience in some form of IT / computing role
APEL/APCL possibilities / Reviewed on an individual basis
Plymouth University regulations apply.
Interview/portfolio requirements / Applicants will be interviewed. In exceptional cases, alternative means of interview such as video/telephone/e-correspondence might be employed.
Independent Safeguarding Agency (ISA) / Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance required / No
Aims of the Programme:
The programme is intended:
  1. To develop knowledge and understanding of computer networks, hardware and applications
  2. To develop understanding of professional and business practices, attitudes and applications within the computer industry
  3. To develop skills and abilities of independent study
  4. To develop the ability to create and communicate solutions and apply analytical and evaluative knowledge of computer networks, hardware and applications to a range of problems and scenarios.

Programme Intended Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this programme the student will be able to:
  1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of computer systems and practices
  2. Design, install and configure networks, applications, web applications and computer systems
  3. Apply their knowledge to commercial and practical scenarios, to client led briefs, to the analysis of problems and to the creation of solutions in the field of computer networks and systems.
  4. Evaluate applications, programs and systems within specific contexts, and recommend solutions and alternatives
  5. Demonstrate the ability to identify, locate and access information, skills and learning as independent learners
  6. Demonstrate an understanding of the commercial and entrepreneurial application of knowledge within the computer industry
  7. Reflect upon and apply a range of transferable skills

Brief Description of the Programme

The degree has at its core an understanding of the architecture, processes and applications of contemporary computing technology. The programme develops specific practice from this base, into working within specific fields of application, on special issues such as customer support and digital media, and develops knowledge of the methods and approaches to professional computing practice. Students will develop their understanding of the management of computing resources, and the stage two will culminate in a project which allows students to develop their own interest, while also acquiring and developing skills of research and investigation.

Programme Structure and Pathways

College: Truro and Penwith College

Year:1 & 2

Course Code: 4501 (full time)

5027 (part time)

Full/Part Time: Full Time

Programme Structure for FdSc Computer Technology

Level 4/Year 1 / Level 5/Year 2
Module Code / Module Title / No. of Credits / Core / Optional / Module Code / Module Title / No. of Credits / Core / Optional
TRUR1105 / Networks / 20 / Core / TRUR2114 / Shell Programming & Scripting / 20 / Core
TRUR1106 / Client-Server Scripting / 20 / Core / TRUR2109 / IT Security Forensics / 20 / Core
TRUR1107 / Computer Systems / 20 / Core / TRUR2110 / Object Orientated Programming / 20 / Core
TRUR1108 / Databases / 20 / Core / TRUR2111 / Managing IT / 20 / Core
TRUR1109 / Digital Media Concepts / 20 / Core / TRUR2112 / Project Management and group project / 20 / Core
TRUR1168 / Problem Solving and Programming / 20 / Core / TRUR2113 / Network Services / 20 / Core

Total number of credits at Level 4 = 120

Total number of credits at Level 5 = 120

A Foundation Degree therefore totals 120 Level 4 credits and 120 Level 5 credits.

INDICATIVE PART TIME ROUTE

Level 4/Year 1 / Level 5/Year 2
Module Code / Module Title / No. of Credits / Core / Optional / Module Code / Module Title / No. of Credits / Core / Optional
TRUR1105 / Networks / 20 / Core / TRUR2114 / Shell Programming & Scripting / 20 / Core
TRUR1106 / Client-Server Scripting / 20 / Core / TRUR2109 / IT Security Forensics / 20 / Core
TRUR1107 / Computer Systems / 20 / Core
TRUR1108 / Databases / 20 / Core
Level 4/Year 2 / Level 5/Year 3
Module Code / Module Title / No. of Credits / Core / Optional / Module Code / Module Title / No. of Credits / Core / Optional
TRUR1109 / Digital Media Concepts / 20 / Core / TRUR2110 / Object Orientated Programming / 20 / Core
TRUR1168 / Problem Solving and Programming / 20 / Core / TRUR2111 / Managing IT / 20 / Core
TRUR2112 / Project Management and group project / 20 / Core
TRUR2113 / Network Services / 20 / Core

Total number of credits at Level 4 = 120

Total number of credits at Level 5 = 120

A Foundation Degree therefore totals 120 Level 4 credits and 120 Level 5 credits.

Progression Route(s)

On successful completion of this programme students will be enabled to progress to Stage 3 of the BSc (Hons) Computing at Plymouth University.

Other progression routes:

BSc (Hons) Applied Computing Technologies – Truro and Penwith College

Any Exceptions to Regulations

None

Teaching methods and assessments

A: Development of Knowledge and Understanding / Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
By the end of the programme the student will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
  • computer processes and practices, networks, applications, web applications and computer systems
  • client led briefs, the analysis of problems and the creation of solutions in the field of computer networks and systems
  • applications, programs and systems within specific contexts,
  • an understanding of the commercial and entrepreneurial application of knowledge within the computer industry
  • the wider social and environmental implications of computing and IT and is able to debate issues in relation to more general ethical perspectives
  • practical constraints of computer-based systems in their context
  • practices and tools for the specification, design,implementation and evaluation of computer-based systems
  • the professional, moral and ethical issues involved in the exploitation of computer technology and appropriate professional, ethical and legal practices
/ Primary
  • Lectures and tutorials
  • Directed independent study
  • Learning from work experience

2.1.1.Secondary

  • Case studies
  • Problem-solving exercises

NB: Benchmark References
Computing (honours)(QAA 2008) and FHEQ / Assessment
Key knowledge and understanding is assessed via a combination of multiple choice tests, examinations, essays, presentations and seminar performances.

2.1.2.B: Cognitive and Intellectual Skills

/ Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
By the end of the programme the student will be able to:
  • Apply their knowledge to commercial and practical scenarios, to client led briefs, to the analysis of problems and to the creation of solutions in the field of computer networks and systems in an informed and systematic way
  • Evaluate applications, programs and systems within specific contexts, and recommend solutions and alternatives
  • Develop the ability to identify, locate and access information, skills and learning as independent learners
  • Develop and appreciate opportunities for the application of a range of transferable skills
  • Demonstrate problem solving and research skills
  • Demonstrate the accommodation of new ideas and practices
  • Demonstrate generic skills of investigation and enquiry, oral and written communicative skills, the use of a range of technology systems for accessing data, resources, contacts and literature, and face-to-face skills
/

2.1.3.Primary

  • Class and practical exercises
  • Tutorial/seminar discussions
  • Feedback via coursework assessment process (essays etc)

2.1.4.Secondary

For example:
  • Case studies
  • Presentations to and by the group

2.1.5.NB: Benchmark References

Computing (honours)(QAA 2008) and FHEQ /

2.1.6.Assessment

  • Assessed practicals
  • Essays/projects/dissertations
  • Examinations/tests
  • Coursework on practical application questions

2.1.7.C: Key Transferable Skills

By the end of the programme the student will be able to:
  • develop the ability to identify, locate and access information, skills and learning as independent learner
  • interact effectively within a team / learning group
  • accommodate new principles and new knowledge
  • demonstrate reflection on issues of practice, on new knowledge and understandings, and on students' own and others' performance against agreed criteria, including the capacity to deploy and evaluate evidence and to express the outcomes of such reflection clearly and fluently
  • demonstrate a developing critical and creative independence, flexibility and sensitivity across both individual and group work
  • interact effectively with others including clients/peers
  • manage learning using resources for the discipline
  • communicate effectively in a manner appropriate to the discipline (in standard English oral, written, using ICT)
  • manage information with the ability to select appropriate data from a range of sources and develop appropriate research strategies
/ Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method

2.1.8.Primary

  • Library and other research exercises
  • Group work and client work to develop awareness and practice
  • PDP
Secondary
  • Class and seminar interactions and feedback

2.1.9.NB: Benchmark References

Computing (honours)(QAA 2008) and FHEQ /

2.1.10.Assessment

  • Coursework of all types
  • Examination preparation and completion
  • Presentation assessments
  • Practical assessments

2.1.11.D: Employment Related Skills

By the end of the programme the student will be able to:
  • Design, install and configure networks, applications, web applications and computer systems
  • Apply their knowledge to commercial and practical scenarios, to client led briefs, to the analysis of problems and to the creation of solutions in the field of computer networks and systems
  • Evaluate applications, programmes and systems within specific contexts, and recommend solutions and alternatives
  • Develop the ability to identify, locate and access information, skills and learning as independent learners
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the commercial and entrepreneurial application of knowledge within the computer industry
  • Develop and appreciate opportunities for the reflection on and application of a range of transferable skills
  • Utilise a range of research skills
  • Manage time, personnel and resources effectively, by drawing on planning and organisational skills
  • Gather, organise and deploy ideas and information in order to formulate arguments cogently
  • Communicate effectively in inter-personal settings, in writing and in a variety of media
/ Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method

2.1.12.Primary

  • Library and other research exercises
  • Group work and client work to develop awareness and practice
  • PDP

2.1.13.Secondary

  • Class and seminar interactions and feedback

2.1.14.NB: Benchmark References

Computing (honours)(QAA 2008) and FHEQ /

2.1.15.Assessment

  • Coursework of all types
  • Examination preparation and completion
  • Presentation assessments
  • Practical assessments

2.1.16.E: Practical Skills

By the end of the programme the student will be able to:
  • Design, install and configure networks, applications, web applications and computer systems
  • Apply their knowledge to commercial and practical scenarios, to client led briefs, to the analysis of problems and to the creation of solutions in the field of computer networks and systems
  • Evaluate applications, programmes and systems within specific contexts, and recommend solutions and alternatives
  • Develop the ability to identify, locate and access information, skills and learning as independent learners
  • Develop and appreciate opportunities for the application of a range of transferable skills
  • organise and manage supervised, self-directed projects
  • work productively in a group or team, showing abilities at different times to listen, contribute and lead effectively
/ Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
  • Projects
  • Designated tasks
  • Lectures and tutorials
  • Learning from practical experiences

2.1.17.NB: Benchmark References

Computing (honours)(QAA 2008) and FHEQ /

2.1.18.Assessment

  • Project work
  • Course work
  • Competence in a range of techniques and practice

2.1.19.Distinctive Features of the Foundation Degree

  • Designed with the current needs of local employers a priority
  • Takes account of recent changes and developments in computing, locally and globally
  • Embeds opportunities to gain professional qualifications
  • Aligned with a range of professional standards

Truro and Penwith College, FdSc Computer Technology,Programme Quality Handbook 2017-18

Last saved: August 2017Page 1 of 62

Learning Outcomes Maps for FdSc Computer Technology at HE Levels 4 and 5

Learning Outcomes Map / Level 4
1 Graduate Attributes and Skills
Core Programme Intended Learning Outcomes / Programme Aim / Programme Learning Outcome / Related Core Modules
Knowledge/ Understanding
Students will be able to demonstrate a knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with their area(s) of study, and an ability to evaluate and interpret these within the context of that (those) area(s) of study. In particular:
  • computer processes and practises, networks, applications, web applications and computer systems
  • client led briefs, the analysis of problems and the creation of solutions in the field of computer networks and systems
  • applications, programmes and systems within specific contexts,
  • an understanding of the commercial and entrepreneurial application of knowledge within the computer industry
  • the wider social and environmental implications of computing and IT and is able to debate issues in relation to more general ethical perspectives
  • practical constraints of computer-based systems in their context
  • practices and tools for the specification, design,implementation and evaluation of computer-based systems
  • the professional, moral and ethical issues involved in the exploitation of computer technology and appropriate professional, ethical and legal practices
/
  1. To develop knowledge and understanding of computer networks, hardware and applications
/ LOs number :
1
5
6 / TRUR1105
TRUR1106
TRUR1107
TRUR1108
TRUR1109
2. Cognitive / Intellectual Skills (generic)
Students will be able to demonstrate an ability to present, evaluate, and interpret qualitative and quantitative data, to develop lines of argument and make sound judgements in accordance with basic theories and concepts of their subject(s) of study. They will also be able to demonstrate the ability to evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems related to their area(s) of study and/or work. In particular to:
  • Apply their knowledge to commercial and practical scenarios, to client led briefs, to the analysis of problems and to the creation of solutions in the field of computer networks and systems in an informed and systematic way
  • Evaluate applications, programmes and systems within specific contexts, and recommend solutions and alternatives
  • Develop the ability to identify, locate and access information, skills and learning as independent learners
  • Develop and appreciate opportunities for the application of a range of transferable skills
  • Demonstrate problem solving and research skills
  • Demonstrate the accommodation of new ideas and practices
  • Demonstrate generic skills of investigation and enquiry, oral and written communicative skills, the use of a range of technology systems for accessing data, resources, contacts and literature, and face-to-face skills
/ 2.To develop understanding of professional and business practices, attitudes and applications within the computer industry
3.To develop skills and abilities of independent study
4.To develop the ability to create and communicate solutions and apply analytical and evaluative knowledge of computer networks, hardware and applications to a range of problems and scenarios / LOs number :
2
3
4
5
7 / TRUR1106
TRUR1107
TRUR1108
TRUR1168
  1. Key / Transferable Skills (generic)
Students will be able to demonstrate an ability to communicate accurately and reliably, and with structured and coherent arguments. Students will also be able to demonstrate an ability to take different approaches to solving problems. In particular to: