Departmental Handbook (Formatted as A5)

Department of Information Systems

Handbook


Handbook

University of Fort Hare

East London Campus

CONTACT US

If this guide does not answer your questions, feel free to contact us:

www.ufh.ac.za/departments/is

Other useful contact information is provided inside this handbook.

Offices:

50 Church Street

East London

1st

Floor, Block “D”

Main Building

Postal address:

Head of Department

Department of IS

University of Fort Hare

P O Box 7426

East London

5200

Tel: +27 (0)43 704 7073

Fax: +27 (0)43 704 7070

E-mail: [email protected]

Department of Information Systems Handbook - 2016 University of Fort Hare (East London Campus) Designed and compiled by Thayne Breetzke NDip IT (cum laude); BTech IT (cum laude); MTech IT (cum laude) Reasonable steps have been taken to ensure that the information in this booklet is correct. The Department of Information Systems reserves the right to change this information at any time. All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners. Certain photos and images in this document have been sourced from FreePhotosBank.com and FreeDigitalPhotos.net. They have been reproduced with their permission and, where necessary, the permission of the image creators whose names are included in the image captions. Printed in East London

CONTENTS

1. Guide to the Department 1

Introduction ............................................................................................................... 1

What is IS? ................................................................................................................. 1

Career opportunities ............................................................................................... 2

Our Logo .................................................................................................................... 4

What is the meaning of our logo? ........................................................................... 4

Glossary of Terms ..................................................................................................... 4

Department Administration Information ................................................................. 5

The Staff ..................................................................................................................... 5

Overview of Qualifications Offered .......................................................................... 6

Admission Criteria .................................................................................................... 7

Foundation Programme .......................................................................................... 7

Key Venues ................................................................................................................ 8

Student, Staff and Visitor Cards .............................................................................. 8

University Library ...................................................................................................... 8

ICT Help Desk ............................................................................................................ 9

IS Computer Lab Use ................................................................................................ 9

Internet and E-mail .................................................................................................. 10

Notice Boards and Blackboard .............................................................................. 10

Course Material ....................................................................................................... 11

Tutors ................................................................................................................... 11

Supplemental Instruction ....................................................................................... 11

Attendance and Academic Performance ............................................................... 11

Plagiarism ................................................................................................................ 12

Bursaries, Student Awards and Financial Aid ...................................................... 12

Bursaries .............................................................................................................. 12

Awards .................................................................................................................. 13

Financial Aid ......................................................................................................... 13

Professional Associations and Societies ............................................................. 14

Van Schaik Bookstore ............................................................................................ 14

How to Apply and Register for a Degree ............................................................... 14

Other Useful University Guides ............................................................................. 15

2. Qualifications 16

B.Com (Information Systems) ................................................................................ 16

Overview ............................................................................................................... 16

Location and nature of offering ............................................................................. 16

Admission requirements ....................................................................................... 17

Cost ...................................................................................................................... 17

Modules ................................................................................................................ 17

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 18

Further studies ...................................................................................................... 18

Overview of the qualification structure .................................................................. 18

B.Com Honours (Information Systems) ................................................................ 20

Overview .............................................................................................................. 20



Cost ...................................................................................................................... 21

Modules ................................................................................................................ 21

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 22

Further studies ...................................................................................................... 22

M.Com (Information Systems) ............................................................................... 22

Overview .............................................................................................................. 22



Cost ...................................................................................................................... 23

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 23

Further studies ...................................................................................................... 23

D.Phil (Information Systems) ................................................................................. 23

Overview .............................................................................................................. 23



Cost ...................................................................................................................... 24

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 24

3. Course Details 25

CLT111E Computer Literacy .................................................................................. 25

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 25

Prerequisites......................................................................................................... 25

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 25

Learning outcomes and course outline ................................................................. 25

IFS112E Information Technology Essentials ........................................................ 27

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 27

Prerequisites......................................................................................................... 27

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 27


IFS121E Fundamentals of Information Systems .................................................. 28

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 28

Prerequisites......................................................................................................... 29

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 29


IFS122E Programming for Business ..................................................................... 30

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 30

Prerequisites......................................................................................................... 30

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 31


IFS212E Business and Systems Analysis ............................................................. 33

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 33

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 34

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 34


IFS222E Systems Design and Implementation ..................................................... 37

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 37

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 37

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 37


IFS223 Databases .................................................................................................... 38

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 38

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 39

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 39


IFS312E IS/IT Project Management ........................................................................ 42

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 42

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 42

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 42


IFS313E Emergent Technologies ........................................................................... 45

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 45

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 45

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 45


IFS322E Systems Development Project ................................................................ 46

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 46

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 46

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 46


IFS323E Enterprise Information Systems ............................................................. 47

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 47

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 47

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 47


IFS503E IS Research Project .................................................................................. 49

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 49

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 49

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 49


IFS513E Requirements Management ..................................................................... 50

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 50

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 50

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 50


IFS516E Research Methods ................................................................................... 52

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 52

Prerequisites ......................................................................................................... 52

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 52


IFS518E Human Computer Interaction .................................................................. 53

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 53

Prerequisites......................................................................................................... 53

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 54


IFS525E Information Security Management .......................................................... 56

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 56

Prerequisites......................................................................................................... 56

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 56


IFS527E Information Systems Management ......................................................... 58

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 58

Prerequisites......................................................................................................... 58

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 58


IFS529E Information System Trends ..................................................................... 60

Purpose ................................................................................................................ 60

Prerequisites......................................................................................................... 60

Assessment .......................................................................................................... 60



University of Fort Hare 1

G u i d e t o t h e D e p a r t m e n t

IInnttrroodduuccttiioonn This handbook serves as a brief introduction to the Department of Information Systems (IS) at the East London campus of the University of Fort Hare. You may be a prospective student who is considering studying towards a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Information Systems or an existing student who has to complete Information Systems subjects as required by your degree. In both cases it is important to begin with an understanding of what you can expect from the subject area and what the subject area will expect from you.

Whether you seek information about the Department of IS or the courses we offer, this handbook is a useful resource and a good place to start your search.

Feel free to send us your feedback and suggestions.

Kind regards

IS Staff

WWhhaatt iiss IISS?? Information Systems is not simply about computers, or learning how to use a popular computer package such as Microsoft Office. It’s about how businesses can make the best use of computer technology to provide the information needed to achieve their goals. In the same way as your own needs and priorities are unique to you, each organisation has different goals and requirements, and the successful implementation of information systems requires a thorough understanding of the business issues involved as well as the different technologies that are available.

The purpose of our courses is to provide you with a basic knowledge of the different elements of information systems: the building blocks that can be combined in a variety of different ways to suit particular business needs, and if it is your major, to build on this knowledge further.

Most of the time there is no single “correct answer”, and you will need to draw on your own knowledge and judgement when planning or using an information system. Naturally, the amount of knowledge that you can accumulate while studying Information Systems will assist in getting the best possible answer.

Perhaps the best way to show the importance of Information Systems is to consider the impact that it has on your own life. Try to imagine what your daily life

Image by chanpipat - FreeDigitalPhotos.net



would be like without Information Systems. You might be able to survive without your student fee account, but can you imagine no television, no cell phones, no e-mail, the end of mass air travel as we know it today, or even the collapse of the banking system? Most of our lives would be affected dramatically. Now stop to consider the times when you have been irritated or frustrated by the inefficiency of a large department or organisation and you will see that technology alone is not the solution to business problems - computers are simply one element of a complete system intended to

support the flow of information within a business environment. People, data, and processes are the other parts of the pie that make up the whole. Students will, over the course of a few years, become more comfortable with these concepts of Information Systems.

Many students incorrectly think that Information Systems is just about programming, but in fact programming is a small (but important) part of developing information systems for organisations. It is for the student to decide if they want to continue further after the basic introduction to programming that they receive whilst studying Information Systems, or to focus on one of the many other areas of possible interest.

Sections of the above are sourced, and in part adapted, from an Information Systems e-book: Discovering Information Systems (p.1), which is freely available online at http://www.freetechbooks.com/about614.html

Career opportunities

The advances in technology not only call for people who can work with the hardware and software (Information Technology Specialists), but also those individuals who have a sound understanding of how organisations make use of computers to function effectively and efficiently. The ability to understand the various business processes and create a link between the users or customers and the technology is the primary role of the Information Systems Specialist.

Various career opportunities exist in the field of Information Systems. Thus, students can find an area that interests them and pursue it further. Although career opportunities are numerous, each one requires that a graduate possesses the following basic skills:

• Analytical skills • Interpersonal skills • Presentation skills • Problem identification skills • Report writing skills • Self-development skills • Time management skills

Image by KROMKRATHOG - FreeDigitalPhotos.net



Career opportunities in the field of Information Systems include:

• Business or systems analyst (analyses the organisation and design of businesses or systems)

• IS/IT project manager (plans, executes and concludes IS/IT projects)

• Information officer (responsible for an organisation’s IT and computer systems)

• Database administrator (responsible for the installation, configuration, upgrade, and administration of an organisation’s databases)

• Business intelligence (uses “applications, infrastructure and tools, and best practices that enable access to and analysis of information to improve and optimize decisions and performance” [from www.gartner.com/it-glossary/business-intelligence-bi])

• ICT consultant (advises businesses on how to best use information and communication technology and often implement, deploy, administer and manage such technology for them)

• Web designer (uses a variety of skills to produce and maintain Web sites)

• Programmer (designs, writes, tests, debugs and maintains computer programs)

• Systems architect (responsible for determining the structure and high-level design of systems for implementation, based upon the requirements of users)

These offer freedom, personal growth, job satisfaction and an above average income from day one. Our graduates have filled various roles in organisations, such as Business Analysts, Systems Analysts, SQL Specialists to name but a few. Some have found employment at local companies such as Business Connexion, East London Computer Bureau (ELCB), Real People, Mercedes Benz and national and international companies such as BSG, Microsoft, and T-Systems. There are also numerous opportunities to be found in government departments or parastatals such as Telkom and Eskom.

The Department will assist all Information Systems graduates, as far as possible, to secure employment opportunities. For example, it may arrange internships which could lead to permanent employment or invite potential employers to visit the Department and conduct interviews. The level of success that a student will achieve will greatly rest upon the level to which they have mastered the basic skills listed earlier.

Images by Stuart Miles, imagerymajestic and Ambro - FreeDigitalPhotos.net



OOuurr LLooggoo

What is the meaning of our logo?

Our logo is composed of two central elements. The first is the letter “i”, coloured blue. The second is the letter “s”, coloured yellow. Together they represent the acronym for Information Systems (IS). Both are in fluid form representing the dynamic and non-rigid nature of our field.

The arrangement of the two elements is important as it depicts a person (in blue) interacting with a computer (in yellow). The computer signifies the technology and data aspects of Information Systems, while the person signifies the people aspect. The encapsulation of these key aspects within processes is signified by the two outer elements that enclose the symbols and feature the name of our Department.

GGlloossssaarryy ooff TTeerrmmss Common terms that you may encounter in this handbook or at the University are briefly described below:

Term Description

B.Com Bachelor of Commerce degree

Credits Used to express the “weighting” of a module

Dean Head of a faculty

DP Duly Performed certificate awarded when minimum requirements are met

Faculty Collection of departments that focus on similar fields of study

HOD Head of Department

Learner A term often used to refer to a student. They are often used interchangeably.

Module Any part of a course (the first digit of the module code indicates the level)

Postgraduate A student who has completed their degree and chooses to study further

Semester Half of an academic year

Undergraduate A student who is doing their first degree



DDeeppaarrttmmeenntt AAddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn Below are useful contact details for key persons within the Department of IS (they can all be found on the 1st floor in Block “D” of the Main Building):

Position Name Venue Tel

Administrator Ms L. Nkwinti Reception 043 704 7073

HOD Prof. R Piderit Offices 043 704 7094

Other useful contacts (including the Department’s fax number and e-mail address) can be found in the front of this handbook. Feel free to make use of these contact details if you have questions not addressed in this handbook.

TThhee SSttaaffff The Department of IS consists of the following dedicated team of staff members who are passionate about Information Systems, educating others, and research:

Name Position Tel

Prof. S Flowerday Professor Masters and Doctorate Research Coordinator

043 704 7071

Prof. R Piderit Head of Department and Associate Professor Postgraduate Coordinator

043 704 7094

Mr D. Boucher Senior Lecturer Undergraduate Coordinator

043 704 7068

Ms N Isabirye Lecturer 043 704 7066

Mr T Breetzke Lecturer 043 704 7069

Dr L Cilliers Senior Lecturer 043 704 7067

Vacant Lecturer

Ms L Nkwinti Departmental Administrator 043 704 7073

Staff members are available to students for consultation during specified hours. Students should alert the lecturer to their presence by calling him/her using the telephone in the Department’s reception area. For meetings outside of the specified consultation hours, students should make an appointment with the lecturer via telephone, e-mail or the Department’s administrator.

If a student has consulted the relevant staff member and still feels dissatisfied, they should make an appointment to see the Head of Department.



OOvveerrvviieeww ooff QQuuaalliiffiiccaattiioonnss OOffffeerreedd The Department of IS offers the following qualifications:

Qualification Code Description

B.Com (IS) 60011 Bachelor of Commerce (Information Systems) degree (3 years)

B.Com (IS) 60101 Bachelor of Commerce (Information Systems) degree (4 years)

B.Com Honours (IS) 60504 Bachelor of Commerce (Information Systems) Honours degree

M.Com (IS) 61007 Master of Commerce (Information Systems) degree

D.Phil (IS) 61505 Doctor of Philosophy in Information Systems degree

Our courses are reviewed annually under the direction of a Departmental Advisory Board. This Board is an independent body of external experts established to provide advice to ensure that the needs of the current job market are understood.

Members of the Board are prominent Information Technology practitioners and Chief Information Officers of leading national organisations who offer their time, expertise and guidance for the benefit of the development of young Information Systems professionals.

The Board provides a bridge between academia and industry and provides services to the Department that are tremendously valuable to students. These include:

• Internships and industry visits

• Value-added guest lectures • Academic resources

For details of each degree and the courses applicable to each, please refer to the sections entitled Qualifications and Course Details later in this handbook.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all as a department for laying a good

foundation for me. As you all know, I was an intern at Business Connexion (BCX). My journey as an intern came to an end last Friday and I was voted the best East London intern for the year 2012. Again I walked away with a prize of an iPod. ☺ The good news is that I did not only win the prize but I was also offered a permanent position as a Junior Network Engineer, and I started today. Again, thank you IS department and keep on doing the great work. From my side, I will no doubt keep on raising the UFH flag high as I would not have done this without you.

Alison Masi Rupende

”



AAddmmiissssiioonn CCrriitteerriiaa The University uses an applicant’s Grade 12 symbols to determine whether he/she is awarded admission to the University. The applicant’s Grade 11 final exam results are generally a good predictor of the symbols the applicant may achieve for Grade 12 and hence the University also uses these as a benchmark for awarding provisional admission.

Admission is subject to a successful matriculation with a bachelors entrance pass. The table below shows what applicants need to have achieved:

Bachelor of Commerce (Information Systems) - 60011 (3 years)

Old Senior Certificate National Senior Certificate (NSC)

Subject Requirements

Level of Achievement

Total Points



Total Points

Matric Exemption with:

35 English Language 4 (50 – 59) 26*

English D (SG) or E (HG)

Mathematics 4 (50 – 59)

Mathematics D (SG) or E (HG)

Bachelor of Commerce (Information Systems) – 60101 (4 years)

Old Senior Certificate National Senior Certificate (NSC)



Total Points



Total Points

English Language 3 (40 – 49) 26*

Mathematics or 3 (40 – 49)

Math Literacy 6 (70 – 79)

*Life orientation counts a maximum of three points

Foundation Programme

Where a student’s Senior Certificate results do not meet the admission requirements for the three-year Information Systems qualification, the student may still qualify for admission to a four-year qualification. The admission requirements for this qualification are shown in the table above.

Students studying towards this qualification complete their first academic year over two years thereby reducing their first-year workload. They also register for value-adding enrichment modules, such as Business English and Mathematics Improvement. Such students therefore complete their qualification over a four-year period instead of the standard three-year period, but they graduate with the same qualification as those who enrolled on the standard three-year programme. University exclusion requirements are only applied at the end of the second year of study instead of at the end of the first year.



KKeeyy VVeennuueess Certain venues are key venues used by the Department of IS. These include:

Venue Description Location

Offices Offices of the Department’s staff D block

JAD room Special venue for meetings with small groups C block

Honours computer lab For use by IS Honours students only C block

Masters computer lab For use by IS Masters and Doctorate students only

C block

Mthiza computer lab For undergrad practical sessions and tutorials Chris Hani building

Boabab computer lab For walk-in, walk-out use by students at any time

Chris Hani building

The labs listed above have printing facilities available to students. To use these printing facilities, a student card is required. Refer to the section below entitled Student Cards.

SSttuuddeenntt,, SSttaaffff aanndd VViissiittoorr CCaarrddss All students and staff members are issued with official University student and staff cards. These must be carried and displayed at all times whilst on campus. For queries regarding these cards, or to obtain one, kindly visit the ICT Services Help Desk (see the section entitled ICT Help Desk below). Visitors to the University need to visit the Information Desk at the front entrance of the main building to obtain a visitor card.

UUnniivveerrssiittyy LLiibbrraarryy All registered students and staff are entitled to free membership to the University’s libraries. To borrow library material, patrons must present their student/staff cards.

Students are encouraged to visit the library to familiarize themselves with the services and material available. University librarians are on hand to answer questions and offer assistance. A convenient on-line library catalogue is also available on the library’s Web site. Visit the library’s Web site by following the relevant link on the University’s Web site (www.ufh.ac.za).



IICCTT HHeellpp DDeesskk The ICT Help Desk is situated in the main building of the East London campus. All technical problems experienced with the laboratory equipment and computer network should be directed there. The ICT Help Desk may also be contacted via e-mail at the following address: [email protected]. Please note that students are not allowed to attempt to repair any piece of hardware themselves.

Although student cards are provided to students at registration, they are also obtainable from the ICT Help Desk.

IISS CCoommppuutteerr LLaabb UUssee Undergraduate students make use of the Mthiza lab in the Chris Hani building basement for formal practical and tutorial sessions. The adjacent Baobab lab is for walk-in, walk-out use by students at any time. Both labs are for the exclusive use of all registered University of Fort Hare students.

IS Honours students use the private IS Honours lab in the C block which is reserved exclusively for these students. Each student is provided with their own private desk equipped with its own computer and the availability of a wireless network connection should students wish to make use of their own equipment. Similarly, Masters and Doctorate students make use of their own IS lab opposite the Honours lab and are also provided with their own private desk and computer. Please note that the Department reserves the right to restrict its facilities in whatever way it deems fit.

All users of University computers must read and accept the computer usage policy which appears when they log onto a computer. Users are expected to adhere to the policy and to cooperate fully with any inquiry into their use of the University facilities. Please note that disciplinary action will be taken against any student found guilty of abusing the available facilities. Students are also reminded of the copyright laws pertaining to computer software, and are warned against infringement of these laws.



IInntteerrnneett aanndd EE--mmaaiill Internet access is provided at most locations within the campus, either through a wireless or cabled network connection. In addition, each student and staff member has a University e-mail account which can be accessed on and off campus. Student e-mail addresses take the following form: [email protected].

Both the University Web site (www.ufh.ac.za) and the University intranet (intranet.ufh) are useful resources for students and staff. New students are especially encouraged to familiarize themselves with the content at these locations. This content includes:

• Student information • Important dates (e.g. graduation ceremonies, examination periods, vacation periods, etc.) • Policies • News • Advertisements

For more specific departmental information, please visit the Department of IS’ Web site at www.ufh.ac.za/departments/is.

Students should make it a habit to check their University e-mail inbox daily for course-related e-mails that may have been sent to them. Failing to check one’s mailbox regularly will result in missing out on important information, such as test dates, due dates, and urgent notices.

NNoottiiccee BBooaarrddss aanndd BBllaacckkbbooaarrdd Notices and announcements concerning courses, for example, test dates, assignment due dates, lectures, etc are published on the Department of IS’ notice boards near the Department’s reception area. These are the official sources of information and students are required to check them on a regular basis. Please note that notices and posters are not allowed on walls, doors and windows.

Mark lists are posted regularly so that students can monitor their progress and report any errors. Discrepancies in marks should be reported within two weeks of their posting, after which time the mark will be deemed final.

Many lectures make use of the University’s learning management system named Blackboard to post important notices and course content. In such cases, students are advised to visit Blackboard regularly at the following address: http://blackboard.ufh.ac.za.

What to do in the case of network, Internet or e-mail problems

In the event that problems are experienced with the University network, Internet connection or e-mail, please report the problem to the ICT Help Desk and obtain their assistance, if necessary. Please refer to the section above entitled ICT Help Desk for contact information.



CCoouurrssee MMaatteerriiaall Most courses have a prescribed textbook which should be purchased by each student. These can be purchased from the Van Schaik Bookstore (see the section entitled Van Schaik Bookstore below). The University library should also be consulted for additional course material.

Students are expected to take their own notes during lectures. Additional notes, journal articles, etc may also be distributed as supplements. Some lecturers may choose to make their notes available on a server or on Blackboard (see above), however it should be remembered that this is entirely at the lecturer’s discretion and should not be expected. In cases where students make printouts, printing charges will apply to cover the costs of printing.

TTuuttoorrss Tutors are senior students appointed by the Department to assist in the running of practical sessions and tutorials. Each tutor is responsible for a number of students and is available during practical times to answer questions relating to practical work. Students are encouraged to make use of their tutors during the times that they are available. However, their time outside official tutorial and practical slots must be respected; the tutors are also university students who have to work towards their degrees. When tutors are seen in the laboratory late at night, it may mean that they are under pressure with their own work, not waiting to assist students with their uncooperative computer.

SSuupppplleemmeennttaall IInnssttrruuccttiioonn Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a program run by the Teaching and Learning Centre (TLC) that assists students with certain courses (primarily first-year level courses) in order to help them perform better. Where SI is offered for a course, senior students, called SI leaders, who have successfully completed the course offer regular, peer-facilitated learning sessions with students.

AAtttteennddaannccee aanndd AAccaaddeemmiicc PPeerrffoorrmmaannccee Students are expected to attend all lectures, practical sessions, tutorial sessions and assessments as attendance registers are kept. In addition, for Honours students, attendance at seminars, visiting lecturer and guest speaker presentations, community projects, group research meetings and project supervisor meetings is compulsory.

In the case where a student was or will be absent, a suitably completed Leave of Absence (LOA) form, together with adequate supporting documentation, must be submitted to the lecturer. These forms can be obtained from the Department’s administrator. Further information is available in the relevant course learner guides.

Adequate academic performance by students is important in order to be granted “DP status” (DP is an abbreviation for Duly Performed). Students who perform poorly, or who do not meet minimum attendance and work requirements for a course, are not granted DP status for a



course. Without it, a student is not permitted to write the final examination for the course. For example, DP status shall not be issued to a student unless the student has:

• Obtained a Class Mark of at least 40% • Attended at least 80% of the practical sessions • Attended at least 80% of the lectures • Handed in all written and other assignments on or before the due dates • Written all term tests

PPllaaggiiaarriissmm Plagiarism is considered to be a serious offence by the University and the Department of IS and is prohibited. Plagiarism is defined as taking and using the ideas, writings, works or inventions or another person as if they are one’s own.

This definition covers a wide range of practices from minor infractions such as inadequate referencing to more serious misdemeanours such as copying blocks of text which are unacknowledged. Very serious offences include stealing an entire essay from another student or from the Internet, infringing copyright or stealing a practical submission or computer program from another student.

Disciplinary steps will be taken against any student found guilty of committing plagiarism, in accordance with the University’s Plagiarism policy.

BBuurrssaarriieess,, SSttuuddeenntt AAwwaarrddss aanndd FFiinnaanncciiaall AAiidd

Bursaries

Although there are no bursaries available specifically to the Information Systems qualifications, the Department does actively seek to secure bursaries for students at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Deserving students will be contacted when the Department is approached by companies with possible bursaries. Also note that in order to attract, reward and retain top performing students, the University offers discounts on tuition to such students.

What to do if a test or other assessment is missed

Missing any form of assessment (e.g. test or practical evaluation) is a serious matter and it is of utmost importance that an application for LOA be received by the lecturer within the required time period of seven calendar days in order to be considered for an alternative assessment or arrangement. Note that LOAs will only be considered for significant reasons of absence beyond a student’s control. Students who do not submit an application within this period will be assigned a zero for the missed assessment. In a case where an examination is missed, the student must contact the Exams Office directly.



Masters and Doctoral postgraduate students can apply annually for a fee waiver for their studies. These are granted at the discretion of the Research Unit at the University. Forms can be obtained from the Department.

Awards

Details of general University awards can be found on the University’s web site. However, in addition to these, a number of awards may be awarded annually by the Department of IS to deserving students (e.g. top performance), subject to funding being made available by the Department’s industry partners. Our industry partners recognize the value of academic achievement and support the award of various scholarships and prizes.

The following lists the various academic awards that are specific to the Department of IS:

Information Systems II Information Systems III Information Systems Honours

Best Performing IS2 Student Best Performing IS3 Student Best Performing IS Honours Student

Top IS3 Systems Development Project

Best IS Honours Research Project

Senior postgraduate (Masters and Doctorate) students will also, from time to time, be awarded a prize based on the recommendation and motivation of their supervisor for exceptional progress in their degree.

Financial Aid

Students may wish to seek financial assistance through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), a government loan scheme to assist financially-needy South African students who have the academic potential to succeed. Students are required to apply annually for financial aid and any aid granted is for one academic year only. The value of the loan will only be credited to the student’s fee account in the third term, once all bursaries have been awarded and paid into the student’s account.

Application forms are available from all Financial Aid offices and must be returned before the closing date each year for both new and returning students. Please note that these loans do not necessarily cover all costs, so additional funding may need to be sought.

Who to contact for information regarding student finances

Please visit the front desk at the entrance of the main building. If necessary, you will be directed to the Fees Office in the basement of the Gasson Centre.



PPrrooffeessssiioonnaall AAssssoocciiaattiioonnss aanndd SSoocciieettiieess Various staff members in the Department are members of the following professional associations and societies:

Professional Association / Society Student Membership?

Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Yes

Association for Information Systems (AIS) Yes

Computer Society of South Africa (CSSA) Yes

Information Systems Auditing & Control Association (ISACA) Yes

South African Institute for Computer Scientists and Information Technologists (SAICSIT)

Yes

Students can join the associations/societies where indicated. Such membership may be beneficial to their studies. It is important to note that there are numerous specialist groups which can be joined. Students should discuss their interests with the Department staff who can advise accordingly.

VVaann SScchhaaiikk BBooookkssttoorree Van Schaik’s Bookstore is situated at 31B Caxton Building in Terminus Street, East London and stocks University textbooks. They can be contacted at 043 722 5926/34 or via e-mail at [email protected].

HHooww ttoo AAppppllyy aanndd RReeggiisstteerr ffoorr aa DDeeggrreeee To apply to study at the University of Fort Hare, please collect an application form from the Student Administration offices at any of the campuses or download one from the University Web site: www.ufh.ac.za. Complete the form and submit it, along with your admission fee and all required documents, to the Student Administration offices before the closing date. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application. Applicants are required to write the National Benchmark Test as part of the admission process. For details please visit www.nbt.ac.za or call 021 650 3523 or 040 602 2616.

Note that there is a deadline for applications. Applications will still be accepted after this due date but a late application fee will be payable and no guarantee of acceptance is given.



All successful applicants need to register for their courses during the registration period at the beginning of the year. Information about registration dates and times and the processes to be followed will be communicated to all successful applicants.

OOtthheerr UUsseeffuull UUnniivveerrssiittyy GGuuiiddeess Other university guides, particularly useful to applicants and new students, include the following:

• The University’s General Prospectus • The various Faculty prospectuses

The General Prospectus and faculty prospectuses list academic programmes, rules/regulations, and other useful information regarding studying at the University of Fort Hare. These are made available to new students at registration.

The following documents can be obtained from the University’s web site at www.ufh.ac.za and are particularly useful to applicants and new students:

• An application form • The Registration Guide

Who to contact for information regarding applications

For more information about how to apply and register, please visit the front desk at the entrance of the main building or the Student Administration offices in the Chris Hani building. Alternatively, they can be contacted at the following telephone numbers:

Tel: 043 704 7155/7266/7279/7004



Q u a l i f i c a t i o n s

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Overview

The Bachelor of Commerce (Information Systems) degree is designed for students who wish to specialise in Information Systems (IS). Information systems specialists focus on integrating information technology solutions and business processes to meet the information needs of businesses, the community and government. The goal is to enable them to achieve their objectives in an effective and efficient manner. This discipline’s perspective of “Information Technology” emphasises information and sees technology as an instrument to enable the generation, processing and distribution of needed information.

In their first year (Information Systems I), students focus on applications of information systems and technology within organisations and obtain a thorough theoretical and practical grounding in the fundamentals of the discipline. Students are also given an introduction to programming.

In their second year (Information Systems II), students acquire extensive analysis, design and database skills and delve deeper into programming.

The third year (Information Systems III) focuses primarily on Information Systems development, preparing students for entry into the Information Systems profession. This focus is supported by the development of skills in project management and an understanding of emerging technologies and the value they offer. Students gain valuable experience from the joint development of an information system.

This degree is aligned to the international requirements for undergraduate programmes of the Association for Information Systems (AIS) and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM).

Students who have been previously registered for IS modules under the B.Com (IS) curriculum prior to 2009 or any IS module under another degree must ensure that they register for the correct modules each year. Students should seek the assistance of the Department of Information Systems’ HOD/Undergraduate Coordinator if they are unsure of the modules applicable to their course.

The Department of IS reserves the right to amend the material and courses to be delivered, in so far as the student majority is in no way disadvantaged by this action.

Location and nature of offering

This degree is offered at the East London campus on a full-time basis.

QUALIFICATIONS



Admission requirements

The relevant admission requirements for this degree can be found in the sub-section entitled Admission Criteria (earlier in this guide).

Cost

Tuition fees are approximately R27,800. Application and registration fees are excluded from this amount, as are costs for residences, meals, handouts, books, and foreign levies. Please consult the Fees Office for up-to-date cost estimates.

Modules

The following table provides an overview of the modules applicable to this degree:

Bachelor of Commerce (Information Systems) – 60011

Level Title of Module Code Credits Pre-requisites

100 First Semester

Introduction to Accounting ACG111E 16 None

Business Management 1A BEC111E 16 Grade 12 Maths & English (minimum E)

Theory of Finance TFN111E 16 Grade 12 Maths (minimum standard grade D)

Economics 1 - Microeconomics ECO111E 16 None

Computer Literacy CLT111E 8 None

Essentials of IT IFS112E 16 None

Second Semester

Accounting Reporting ACG121E 16 40% for ACG111

Business Management 1B BEC121E 16 40% for BEC111

Life, Knowledge and Action LKA121E 16 None

Economics 1 - Macroeconomics ECO121E 16 None

Fundamentals of Information Systems IFS121E 16 None

Programming for Business IFS122E 16 CLT111E

200 First Semester

Commercial Law 1 ACL111E 16 None

Business Management 2 MNG211E MNG212E

8 8

BEC111 & BEC121 BEC111 & BEC121

Economics 2 - Microeconomics ECO211E 16 ECO111

Business & Systems Analysis IFS212E 16 IFS121



Second Semester

Commercial Law 1 ACL121E 16 None

Systems Design and Implementation IFS222E 16 IFS122E

Databases IFS223E 16 IFS212E

Electives (choose one):

Business Management 2 BEC221E 16 BEC111 & BEC121

Economics 2 – Macroeconomics ECO221E 16 ECO121

300 First Semester

Professional Communications CMP111E 16

IT/IS Project Management IFS312E 16 IFS212E

Emergent Technologies IFS313E 16 IFS222E

Second Semester

Systems Development Project IFS322E 16 IFS212E & IFS222E

Enterprise Information Systems IFS323E 16 IFS312E

Assessment

Students must obtain a class mark of at least 40% to be eligible to write an examination for a module. To pass a module, the student must obtain at least 40% in the examination and, when the class mark and examination mark are combined, at least 50% overall.

Further studies

The qualification can lead to further studies towards a B.Com Honours, M.Com and D.Phil in Information Systems (see below).

Overview of the qualification structure

An overview of the structure of the B.Com (IS) degree is shown overleaf. As indicated in the legend:

• The brown blocks indicate compulsory subjects offered by other departments. • The green blocks indicate compulsory subjects that only IS major students complete. • The purple blocks indicate compulsory subjects on an Economics and Management

qualification with IS as a second major.

The arrows indicate the order in which subjects should be completed. Where one subject must be completed before another, a solid arrow is used between both subjects.





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Overview

The Information Systems Honours degree is designed to round off the undergraduate degree and give students a deeper insight into the discipline of Information Systems. At the same time, it is designed to develop the student as an individual as well as a member of a team, both socially and mentally, and in terms of skills development. It introduces students to research and advances them in the study and development of Information Systems, providing a controlled maturing ground for students in preparation for the Information Systems profession.

Students are also treated to visits to East London companies to expose them to the life of an Information Systems professional. In addition, opportunities for internships at local or national companies exist, providing students with insight into the working world. Many Honours students have felt that they have made better employment choices after completing an internship as they have had a better understanding of what the different ICT careers have to offer.

Honours students are expected to:

• Display evidence of independent thought, information searching, critical analysis and problem solving

• Show an appreciation of concepts and principles of Information Systems • Communicate ideas clearly and succinctly • Involve themselves in participative learning and team work • Demonstrate a high degree of integrity in their conduct and studies • Exhibit responsible and mature management of their studies

The degree serves to address the following objectives:

• Introduce students to research in the field of Information Systems • Advance study in Information Systems • Advance progressive application of Information Systems knowledge • Prepare students for future positions of leadership in Information Systems • Facilitate the development of professional communications

The degree comprises of 128 credits. Students must complete 6 modules (96 credits) and also submit a treatise (32 credits). The degree is aligned to the international requirements for undergraduate programmes of the Association for Information Systems (AIS) and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM).


This degree is offered at the East London campus on a full-time and part-time basis over a one year and two-year period, respectively. It makes use of discussion seminars, case analyses and formal lectures to facilitate student involvement in the learning process.

A small class size allows students to engage with one another and the lecturers. Team-based



work allows students to learn how to work with other students, while written assignments and presentations develop a student’s ability to argue soundly and communicate clearly in both oral and written form.


Applicants for the Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Information Systems should be in possession of a relevant undergraduate qualification (e.g. B.Com (Information Systems) or equivalent). To be admitted, the applicant must have obtained a combined average mark of 60% in the modules at the third year level of the undergraduate degree. Learners who receive less than this mark, or have completed an undergraduate qualification in another computing discipline can still apply. All students who apply will have their suitability for admission to the degree based on the marks obtained at undergraduate, a sample of writing, and an in-depth interview.

The Department has twenty-four (24) places available annually, which are allocated to full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 year) basis. It is the policy of the Department to give preference to full-time over part-time placements. Part-time Honours students are required to have their employers commit to their attendance of at least 90% of all activities before being accepted on the course.

Cost


The University offers a number of fee waiver and bursary options. Enquire at the Department when registering about your eligibility.

Modules

The following table provides an overview of the modules applicable to this degree:

Bachelor of Commerce Honours (Information Systems) – 60504

Title of Module Code Credits

Information Systems Research Treatise IFS503E 32

Requirements Management IFS513E 16

Information Systems Research Methods IFS516E 16

Human-Computer Interaction IFS518E 16

Information Security Management IFS525E 16

Information Systems Management IFS527E 16

Information Systems Trends IFS529E 16



In addition, the IS Honours course includes an orientation programme that begins before classes each year. It aims to orientate students as postgraduate students and establish an Honours group identity and team dynamics. Students are also treated to an industry visit that provides a chance to explore local employment opportunities and be exposed to life as an Information Systems professional. Participation is compulsory. Further details are provided at the beginning of the year.

Assessment An average of at least 50% across all modules is required. In addition, students must achieve a subminimum of 40% for each module. Students will be requested to leave the programme if they are not able to maintain a standard of professionalism and involvement.

Further studies

The qualification can lead to further studies towards an M.Com and D.Phil in Information Systems (see below).

MM..CCoomm ((IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn SSyysstteemmss))

Overview

A Master of Commerce (Information Systems) by dissertation (i.e. 100% research) is offered for students who possess good written and analytical skills. Students are required to undertake a research study of relevant literature prescribed or agreed to by the Department of Information Systems pertaining to a specific field of study within the broad field of Information Systems. A research proposal is submitted, and once accepted, the student can proceed with the research aim of writing a dissertation. The purpose is to clearly show their ability to collect, analyse and present their research findings.


This degree is offered at the East London campus on a full-time and part-time basis over a one/two year and two/three year period, respectively. A research proposal must be defended within the first year of study to be considered for continued registration.


This qualification is by dissertation (100% research), either on a full-time or part-time basis. Prospective candidates should possess good written and analytical skills, and be interested in researching a specific topical area within the broad field of Information Systems.

Those with a degree in Information Systems or a cognisant discipline must contact the Department to seek an interview with the Masters Coordinator to determine their eligibility to



complete the qualification, and will be advised accordingly. The Department will only consider candidates annually if sufficient supervision capacity exists.

Cost



Assessment

The written dissertation submitted for assessment is assessed by externally appointed academic examiners at other universities.

Further studies

On completion of the Masters Degree programme, graduates will be able to pursue Doctoral studies if they so wish and subject to the availability of suitable supervision (see below).

DD..PPhhiill ((IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn SSyysstteemmss))

Overview

A D.Phil in Information Systems by thesis (i.e. 100% research) is offered. The purpose is to equip the student to become an independent researcher in the field of Information Systems. A successful D.Phil will provide novel and original research to the existing body of knowledge in the discipline.


This degree is offered at the East London campus by research only. It runs through two to five years. The first year is devoted to the review of literature and writing of a research proposal supported by a series of seminar presentations for peer assessment. This culminates in a final assessment of the proposal by the research committee of the Faculty. The remaining years are for the writing of the research thesis.


This qualification is by thesis (100% research). The admission requirements are a Masters



degree in Information Systems or a cognisant discipline with a pass mark of at least 60% or/and a good Masters with evidence of scholarly contribution (research output). A research proposal of less than 600 words is also required indicating the topic, introduction, the problem statement, objectives of the study and the methodology.

Prospective candidates must contact the Department to seek an interview with the Research Coordinator to determine their eligibility to complete the programme. Please note that there are limited places available on the programme.

Cost



Assessment

The written thesis submitted for assessment is assessed by internal and externally appointed academic examiners.



C o u r s e D e ta i l s

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Purpose

The Computer Literacy course aims to provide students from all disciplines with the necessary end user computing skills to advance in their respective academic areas. The course has been designed to empower students with the ability to conduct activities such as the compilation, formatting and presentation of reports, analysis and graphical presentation of data and internet research. The skills obtained through the course will support the students in many areas of their degrees.

Prerequisites

None

Assessment

Class work, assignments, and a three-hour examination

Learning outcomes and course outline

As exit level outcomes, students should:

• be able to locate, sort, and manage files;

• be able to create and design Microsoft Word documents according to various formatting criteria;

• be able to perform report layout editing, including the insertion of pictures, links to other documents, headers and footers, references and index tables;

• be able to collect and organise data into Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, and format the presentation of the spreadsheets accordingly;

• be able to apply formulae to the cells to perform calculations, as well as to represent their data graphically for further analysis;

• be able to create PowerPoint presentations, format their design and layout, and add animations; and

• be able to create and manage an e-mail account and conduct research using search engines and internet web browsers.

COURSE DETAILS



More specific learning outcomes are highlighted in the course outline below:

Topics and Learning Objectives

Introduction to computers:

• Familiarize students with the categories of components that make up a computer and connect it with other systems.

Operating systems and file management:

• Introduce the students to the Windows operating system and explain how to manage files within the various locations of a system.

Creating and formatting Microsoft Word 2007 documents

• Introduce the students to Microsoft Word by teaching them to create and manipulate the format of documents.

Inserting objects and changing the layout of a Microsoft Word document:

• Embed files or objects into Microsoft Word documents and structure and standardise the layout of the pages of the document.

Creating and formatting spreadsheets:

• Introduce the students to Microsoft Excel spreadsheets by teaching them to enter data and manipulate the presentation of the spreadsheets.

Data analysis with Microsoft Excel spreadsheets:

• Introduce students to data analysis and presentation with Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.

PowerPoint presentations:

• Introduce student to the basic functionality of Microsoft PowerPoint.

Internet and e-mail:

• To teach the students how to use the internet as a means of communication or a source of information.



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Purpose

In this course, students are introduced to computers in general, but the main focus is on data communications. Essentially, this deals with the fundamentals of how computers are connected to each other (i.e. networked) and how they exchange information. An understanding of the principles of networking is essential in the computing profession because nowadays it is rare to find a computer which does not connect to a network of some sort.

The course aims to enable the student to develop a number of skills that will give students a strong foundation for an Information Systems degree and also help prepare them for the CCNA certification exam and a range of other Information Technology (IT) professional careers. It uses simple networks found in small office or home office environments to introduce basic concepts of networking such as cabling, addressing, wireless networking and security. It teaches students how to plan, deploy and troubleshoot small networks. It is therefore a good starting point for any student thinking of pursuing a career in Information Systems, or the broader field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

This course is based upon the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Discovery 1 module: Networking for Home and Small Business.

Prerequisites

Students are not expected to have any previous technical skills or knowledge. However, basic PC skills, foundation math and problem solving skills are required.

Assessment

Assessment is through class work, assignments, and a three-hour examination.



• demonstrate a basic understanding of the frequently used terms within the field of data communications and be able to apply them in less complex networking scenarios;

• have acquired a good knowledge and overview of the most common technical equipment within the area of networking and be able to apply these in modeling and real design;

• be able to identify and analyse networking technology needs and select the right equipment to design less complex networks; and

• have gained knowledge that helps prepare them for an industry recognised networking certificate (CCNA).





Personal computer hardware:

• Describe the use of computers, components, peripherals and network and local applications.

Operating systems:

• Describe the purpose, use and maintenance of operating systems.

Connecting to the network:

• Describe network operations and implement a local area network.

Connecting to the Internet through an ISP:

• Describe the purpose and function of an Internet Service Provider.

Network addressing:

• Describe IP addressing and IP address management.

Network services:

• Describe the client/server relationship, associated applications and protocols, and explain the OSI model.

Wireless technologies:

• Describe and implement a wireless network.

Basic security:

• Describe mitigation techniques for security risks.

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Purpose

The purpose of the course is to provide learners with a fundamental introduction to how computers, data, processes and people are linked, so they can understand how these elements are active in organisations and the community. Every facet of a business in these modern times makes use of some form of technology to operate more effectively and efficiently. Additionally, there is no part of our daily lives that is not touched by the influence of technology and the information systems that manage them.



Prerequisites

None.

Assessment

Online quizzes, practical work, tests and a three-hour examination



• be able to describe the various elements needed in an information system;

• demonstrate an understanding of the technology that can be used with an information system;

• indicate what specific types of systems can be used by an organisation to improve their business processes in traditional and mobile systems;

• be able to explain how a system would be developed; and

• demonstrate an understanding of the various security aspects associated with information systems.



Introduction to Information Systems:

• Describe the nature and use of information systems.

• Discuss how organisations can use information systems for competitive advantage.

Aspects of Technology in Information Systems:

• Identify and describe the essential hardware components of a computer system.

• Differentiate between system and application software.

• Describe software issues and trends that have an impact on organisations and individuals.

• Describe and demonstrate (using Microsoft Access) how databases would be used in an organisation.

• Explain the types of the Internet-type technology that can be used by an organization.

Business Information Systems:

• Describe how an organisation makes use of a Transaction Processing System (TPS).



• Explain how electronic and mobile commerce work when using online business.

• Discuss the implications of implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System.

• Explain the use of Management Information Systems in an organisation.

• Discuss the nature of Support System use in a business environment at the operational and executive level.

• Demonstrate the use of Microsoft Excel to make business decisions.

Systems Development:

• Describe why an organisation would want to make changes to an existing system.

• Explain the importance of determining the level of feasibility of making system changes.

• Discuss the various techniques that can be used to develop and deploy a system.

Trends in Information Systems:

• Discuss the principles and limits of an individual’s right to privacy on online system.

• Describe how computer crime occurs and how it can be reduced.

• Identify and describe new trends in software and service distribution.

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Purpose

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to programming with the goal of developing good programming skills suited to the business environment. The emphasis is on problem-solving and logical expression through programming. This involves identifying and analysing less complex problems and using the C# programming language to design and implement solutions to these problems. This lays a firm foundation for further studies in the discipline.

The course begins with the topics of problem-solving and algorithms and then progresses to programming using the C# programming language.

Prerequisites

Students are not expected to have any previous programming background. However, students must have successfully completed CLT111E to take this course.



Assessment

Assessment is through class work, assignments, and a three-hour examination.



• understand the problem-solving processes and techniques;

• understand the basic building blocks, keywords, concepts and constructs of the C# programming language and be able to use them in less complex problem solving scenarios;

• understand the basic principles of object-oriented programming; and

• be able to analyse problems, and design, code and debug C# computer programs to solve these problems.



Problem solving and algorithms:

• Understand what it means to be a “problem solver” and a “creative thinker”.

• Understand and be able to follow the steps for solving a problem.

• Be able to determine a set of steps to derive a solution to a simple problem.

• Understand what an algorithms is and what rules apply when developing them.

• Understand the few basic operations that a computer can perform.

• Understand the importance of testing an algorithm and how to test it.

• Understand the introductory concepts of programming.

• Be able to write pseudocode and draw IPO diagrams to solve simple problems.

• Understand what a computer program is and how it relates to pseudocode.

The C# development environment:

• Be able to create a C# project.

• Be able to manipulate controls and their properties at design time.

• Be able to run a program.

• Be able to handle a button-click event.

• Be able to display a message box.

• Be able to place text on a label at run-time.

• Be able to locate compilation errors.



Introductory graphics:

• Be able to use drawing facilities for simple shapes.

• Be able to call simple methods.

• Be able to pass arguments to methods.

• Be able to write programs as a sequence of instructions.

• Be able to add comments to a program.

Variables and calculations:

• Understand the types of numeric variables.

• Be able to declare variables.

• Be able to use the assignment statement.

• Be able to use arithmetic operators.

• Understand the use of numbers with labels and text boxes.

• Understand the essentials of strings.

Methods and arguments:

• Be able to write methods.

• Understand how arguments and parameters are used.

• Be able to pass arguments by value and by reference.

• Be able to use return in methods.

Using objects:

• Understand how to use instance variables and the private keyword.

• Understand the form constructor.

• Be able to use library classes.

• Be able to use new keyword.

• Be able to use methods and properties.

• Be able to use the Random class.

• Be able to use the TrackBar and Timer controls.

Selection:

• Be able to use if and switch statements to carry out tests.

• Be able to use comparison operators such as >.

• Be able to use the logical operators &&, || and !

• Be able to declare and use Boolean data.



Repetition:

• Be able to perform repetitions using while statements.

• Be able to perform repetitions using for statements.

• Be able to use the logical operators &&, || and ! in loops.

• Be able to perform repetition using the do statement.

Debugging:

• Understand the different types of bugs.

• Be able to use the debugger.

• Be able to use breakpoints and single stepping.

• Recognize common errors.

Calculations:

• Be able to display numbers in a convenient way.

• Be able to use basic mathematical library functions.

• Be able to carry out basic business calculations.

String manipulation:

• Be able to use various string facilities.

• Understand the main methods and properties of the String class.

Program style:

• Be able to follow various good style guidelines and best practices when writing programs.

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Purpose

This course focuses primarily on the analysis phase of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC). It emphasizes the factors for effective communication and integration with users and user systems. It encourages interpersonal skill development with clients, users, team members, and others associated with the development, operation, and maintenance of a system. Structured and object oriented analysis, use of modeling tools and adherence to a methodological life cycle are the main focus of this course.

The course aims to enable the learner to develop a number of skills necessary for entry into the Information Systems profession. This focus is supported by the development of skills in



Requirements Gathering and UML Modelling. Furthermore, students gain valuable, practical experience through the analysis and specification of the requirements for a pseudo system.

Prerequisites

Students must have successfully completed IFS121/IFS121E to take this course.

Assessment




• be able to identify the phases of the Systems Development Life Cycle and discuss the importance of these phases in ensuring project completion;

• be able to discuss the role of a systems analyst in the development of a system;

• demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts of traditional and object oriented approaches to systems development;

• be able to identify and apply appropriate information-gathering techniques to a case study and justify this choice of techniques;

• demonstrate the capacity to work in teams;

• demonstrate the ability to communicate requirements effectively in both spoken and written form in a business and discipline specific context; and

• be able to model a small-scale system using modern systems analysis and UML techniques.



Overview of Systems Analysis:

• Describe the purpose of systems analysis in the development of information systems.

• Describe the characteristics of iterative systems development.

• Explain the six core processes of the Systems Development Life Cycle.

• Identify key diagrams used in systems analysis.

• Explain the utility of identifying use cases and object classes in systems development.

The World of the Information Systems Analyst:

• Explain the key role of a systems analyst in business.



• Describe the various types of systems and technology an analyst might use.

• Explain the importance of technical skills, people skills, and business skills for an analyst.

• Explain why ethical behaviour is crucial for a systems analyst’s career.

• Describe various job titles in the field and places of employment where analysis work is done.

• Discuss the analyst’s role in strategic planning for an organisation.

• Describe the analyst’s role in a system development project.

Investigating System Requirements:

• Describe the activities of systems analysis.

• Explain the difference between functional and nonfunctional requirements.

• Describe the role of models in systems analysis.

• Identify and understand different kinds of stakeholders and their contributions to requirements definition.

• Describe information-gathering techniques and determine when each is best applied.

• Discuss the need for validation of system requirements to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Use Cases:

• Explain why identifying use cases is the key to defining functional requirements.

• Describe the two techniques for identifying use cases.

• Apply the user goal technique to identify use cases.

• Apply the event decomposition technique to identify use cases.

• Describe the notation and purpose for the use case diagram.

• Model system requirements in use case diagrams.

Domain Modelling:

• Explain how the concept of “things” in the problem domain also defines requirements.

• Identify and analyse data entities and domain classes needed in the system.

• Read, interpret, and create an entity-relationship diagram.

• Read, interpret, and create a domain model class diagram.

The Traditional Approach to Requirements:

• Explain how the traditional approach and the object-oriented approach differ when modeling the details of a use case.

• List the components of a traditional system and the symbols representing them on a data flow diagram.



• Describe how data flow diagrams can show the system at various levels of abstraction.

• Develop data flow diagrams.

Extending the Requirements Models:

• Write fully developed use case descriptions.

• Develop activity diagrams to model flow of activities.

• Develop system sequence diagrams.

• Develop state machine diagrams to model object behaviour.

• Explain how use case descriptions and UML diagrams work together to define functional requirements.

Approaches to System Development:

• Compare the underlying assumptions and uses of a predictive and an adaptive system development life cycle.

• Describe the key activities and tasks of information system support.

• Explain what comprises a system development methodology – the SDLC as well as models, tools and techniques.

• Describe the two overall approaches used for software construction and modeling: the structured approach and the object-oriented approach.

• Describe the key features of Agile development.

Making the System Operational:

• Describe various types of software tests and explain how and why each is used.

• List various approaches to data conversion and system deployment and describe the advantages and disadvantages of each.

• Describe training and user support requirements for new and operational systems.

Current Trends in System Development:

• Describe the elements of the Unified Process.

• Compare and contrast the features of Extreme Programming and Scrum development.

• Describe the major trends in connectivity, Internet and telephone technologies.



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Purpose

The purpose of this course is to cover the physical design and implementation of information systems applications, with specific focus on emerging distributed computing environments using traditional and contemporary development methodologies.

Prerequisites

Students must have successfully completed IFS122E to take this course.

Assessment

The semester mark will be based on the results of four practical assignments, two theory semester tests, and one practical test. Although the examination will not be a practical examination, it will be weighted equally on theoretical concepts and the application of more practical concepts.



• demonstrate the ability to model a small-scale system using modern systems analysis and design techniques;

• be able to translate a system design into a software product using Visual C#.NET;

• be able to apply user centred design principles to design user friendly software interfaces; and

• understand the process of ensuring software quality through testing.



Problem Solving:

• Understand problem solving as a process and be able to apply a series of steps to arrive at decisions and resolve a problem.

• Be able to design appropriate algorithms, pseudocode and flowcharts to create blueprints for software applications.



Data Manipulation:

• Be able to apply programming constructs such as loops, conditions and string and arithmetic manipulation to create customized user applications.

Object-oriented Programming:

• Have a theoretical background into object oriented programming.

• Be able to make use of methods and classes in order to build applications that illustrate the principles of polymorphism, encapsulation and inheritance.

Database Programming:

• Understand the ADO.net objects that support interaction between SQL server and Visual Studio.net applications.

• Be able to develop data driven applications that support the creation, modification or deletion of data from an underlying SQL server database.

User Interface Design:

• Understand the theoretical aspects of user interface design.

• Be able to apply usability heuristics to ensure that their applications are intuitive, consistent and easy to use.

• Be able to demonstrate concepts such as error prevention and input validation.

Software Testing:

• Understand the various testing activities that take place during the different stages of the Software Development Lifecycle.

IIFFSS222233 DDaattaabbaasseess

Purpose

The development of databases is a skill that has been a prominent part of the curriculum of university IS courses since the 1970s. Databases form the foundation of a wide range of computer systems from transaction processing systems of businesses and other organisations, to web-based systems now so prevalent in every type of organisation. Hence, to understand and be able to develop such systems is a vital skill for any information systems professional.

This course will provide students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills that will enable them to be employed in IS companies and any organisation involved in developing their own database systems. For students who are more interested in the analysis of data, such as economists, financial analysts and business analysts, the course provides an important



introduction to decision support systems.

Prerequisites

Students must have successfully completed IFS121E or IFS212E to take this course.

Assessment



As exit level outcomes, students should be able to:

• distinguish between the different data models in terms of how each stores data;

• describe the basic elements of the relational model and represent relations (tables) using relational algebra statements;

• distinguish between entities and attributes;

• select appropriate attributes to serve as the primary key of a table;

• create relationships by selecting foreign keys;

• create entity relationship diagrams to represent the data of a real world application;

• create ERDs using specialization hierarchies, relational schema and dependency diagrams;

• use Microsoft SQL Server to create tables, views, keys, constraints, indexes;

• drop and alter tables, views, constraints and indexes;

• create queries to select, insert, delete, update, commit and rollback data and transactions;

• use comparison operators, logical operators, special operators and aggregate functions in queries;

• use sub-queries, conditional restrictions in queries;

• select data from multiple tables using joins;

• use advanced commands, functions and updatable views;

• explain how triggers and stored procedures can be used;

• explain the main processes involved in designing a relational database;

• describe alternative database development strategies;

• explain some of the key security and administration functions required to maintain a database;

• select appropriate file structures;

• explain how indexes work;



• define a transaction;

• explain how the different methods of concurrency control work;

• explain how a database can be recovered to avoid loss of data;

• describe operational data and decisions support data;

• define a data warehouse and data mining;

• use a spreadsheet application to import data from a relational database for analysis in a pivot table, or pivot chart;

• explain what is meant by OLAP, ROLAP and MOLAP;

• explain basic ROLAP architectures;

• explain and use the star schema using Microsoft SQL Server; and

• use the SQL extensions for rollup, cube and materialized views using Microsoft SQL Server.



Database systems:

• Understand what a database is.

• Understand the role, functions and advantages of the Database Management System.

• Understand the difference between a file system, hierarchical data model, network data model, relational data model and object oriented data model.

• Understand the relational database model in depth.

• Understand the principles of set theory as they apply to databases and the principles of relational algebra (no prior knowledge is required).

Design concepts:

• Understand entities, attributes and relationships.

• Understand primary keys and foreign keys.

• Understand relationship multiplicity comprising participation and cardinality (one-to-one, one-to-many, and many-to-many).

• Understand the entity relationship diagram (ERD).

• Understand conflicting goals in database design.

• Understand specialization hierarchies and why they are useful.

• Use composite primary keys for many-to-many relationships.

• Identify design traps.

• Normalize tables to reduce data redundancy.



Structured Query Language (SQL):

• Use Data Definition Language (DDL) commands to create tables, views, keys, constraints, indexes.

• Drop and alter tables, views, constraints and indexes.

• Use Data Manipulation Language (DML) commands to select, insert, delete, update, commit and rollback data and transactions.

• Use comparison operators, logical operators, special operators and aggregate functions.

• Use joins and subqueries.

• Use advanced query commands.

• Use SQL functions, updatable views, triggers, stored procedures and embedded SQL.

Database design and implementation:

• Understand how all aspects of designing a database fit together.

• Understand the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and the Database Life Cycle (DBLC).

• Understand conceptual, logical and physical design elements.

• Understand database security.

• Understand database design strategies.

• Understand basic database administration responsibilities and tasks.

Database transaction management:

• Understand what a transaction is.

• Understand how transactions are managed within a relational database using concurrency control.

• Understand locking, time-stamping and optimistic methods of concurrency control.

• Understand database recovery management.

The data warehouse:

• Understand the difference between transaction processing systems and decision support systems.

• Understand the characteristics of operational data and decision support data.

• Understand what a data warehouse is.

• Understand what Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) is.

• Understand the use of multi-dimensional data.

• Understand the OLAP architectures.

• Understand the Relational OLAP (ROLAP), and multi-dimensional OLAP (MOLAP).



• Understand the Star schemas for working with multi-dimensional data.

• Understand the implementation a data warehouse.

• Understand what data mining is.

• Understand the SQL extensions for OLAP, comprising the rollup extension, the cube extension and materialized views.

IIFFSS331122EE IISS//IITT PPrroojjeecctt MMaannaaggeemmeenntt

Purpose

For a long time IT Projects had a terrible track record. According to the Standish Group study (CHAOS) only 16.2% of IT projects were successful in meeting scope, time, and cost goals and over 31% of IT projects were cancelled before completion, costing over $81 B in the U.S. alone.

Building from the PMBOK1 guide, this module is aimed at introducing project management for information systems by presenting concepts, tools and techniques that are used in Information technology PM. Research assignments, Case studies and Practical Exercises using Microsoft Project and group exercises will help learners on various aspects of project management. Advanced topics in Project Management, such as Programme Management, Project Portfolio Management, and Project Management Methodologies like PRINCE2 are covered.

Prerequisites

Students must have successfully completed IFS212E or IFS223E to take this course.

Assessment




• understand the growing need for better project, program, and portfolio management and understand the relationship between these fields;

• prioritise, select, plan and manage information technology projects;

1 PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge) guide- is an American National Standard to provide

solid framework and context for managing information technology projects



• demonstrate understanding of the Project Constraints;

• describe project management and key elements of the project management framework, including project stakeholders, project management knowledge areas, common tools and techniques, and project success factors;

• describe the project management profession, including helpful skills for project, program, and portfolio managers, the role of professional organizations, such as the Project Management Institute, the importance of certification and ethics, and the growth of project and portfolio management software;

• use project management scheduling techniques e.g. PERT, GANTT;

• use a work-breakdown structure to decompose a project into manageable tasks;

• make informed decisions about project team selection, purchasing and project progress monitoring; and

• be able to make use of various team motivational strategies.



Introduction to Project Management:

• From this unit the student will get a broad understanding of the field of project management.

• The students will understand:

o IT Project management knowledge areas.

o Why stakeholder management and top management commitment are critical for a project’s success.

• The systems view of project management and how it applies to information technology projects.

Project Governance:

• This unit discusses the advanced topics to project management.

• At the end of this unit the student should have a good understanding of:

o The link between business strategy and project management.

o The importance of a move from traditional project Management to Strategic Project Management.

Project Process Groups:

• This unit covers the Project Management Life Cycle through the five project management (PM) process groups.

Project Integration Management:

• From this unit the overall framework for project integration management as it relates to the other PM knowledge areas and the project life cycle is covered.



Project Scope Management:

• From this unit the students will understand the importance of good project scope management.

• Methods for collecting and documenting requirements in order to meet stakeholder needs and expectations will be discussed.

Project Time Management:

• This unit will discuss the importance of project schedules and good project time management.

• The students will understand how project managers use network diagrams and dependencies to assist in activity sequencing.

Project Cost Management:

• The basic project cost management principles, concepts, and terms are explained.

Project Quality Management:

• From this unit, the students will understand the importance of project quality management for information technology products and services.

Project Human Resource Management:

• This unit explains the importance of good human resource management on projects, including the current state and future implications of the global IT workforce.

Project Communication Management:

• Discusses the process of identifying stakeholders and how to create a stakeholder register and stakeholder management strategy in order to ensure good communications in projects.

Project Risk Management:

• This unit discusses the elements involved in risk management planning and the contents of a risk management plan.

Project Procurement Management:

• The students will understand the importance of project procurement management and the increasing use of outsourcing for information technology projects.



IIFFSS331133EE EEmmeerrggeenntt TTeecchhnnoollooggiieess

Purpose

The purpose of this course is to develop an understanding and the skills for systems development within new and emergent technologies, such as web development principles and practices, Web services, e-Commerce and m-Commerce applications. The course also focuses on web application development using ASP.NET, with the aim of equipping the learners with the technical and theoretical knowledge and skills to build advanced web applications for their final year Systems Development project.

Prerequisites


Assessment

The semester mark will be based on the results of four practical assignments, two theory semester tests, and one practical test. Although the examination will not be a practical examination, it will be weighted equally on theoretical concepts and the application of more practical concepts.



• have a sound knowledge of trends and advancements in web and mobile technologies;

• have an idea of how such technologies are applied within business and society;

• understand the underlying architectures that support various web technologies; and

• be able to develop rich interactive web applications using ASP.NET or similar technologies.



Research and Analysis of Information Technology Trends:

• Critically review information technology trends and their impact on society and business.

• Display a solid understanding of key trends in information technology that have the potential to revolutionise society and business.

• Demonstrate an understanding of existing architectures, platforms and applications.



• Identify develop or conceptualise future trends.

ASP.NET Programming Using C#:

• Introduction to HTML5, CSS and ASP.NET.

• Adaptation of Visual Studio. Net skins and themes.

• Building data driven applications using ASP.NET and ADO.NET.

• Introduction to the entity framework.

IIFFSS332222EE SSyysstteemmss DDeevveellooppmmeenntt PPrroojjeecctt

Purpose

The systems development project focuses on engaging in and completing a major system development project. Within the project context, systems integration is an explicit requirement for students to address. The project is a team effort and allows a final opportunity to practice personal and interdependence skills to ensure team member empowerment and success.

In this module, students gain valuable, practical experience through the joint development of a general system. The module aims to ensure that graduates are highly competent in this field, and prepared for a career in the Information Systems field.

Prerequisites

Students must have successfully completed IFS212E and IFS222E to do the systems development project.

Assessment

Continuous evaluation



• demonstrate appropriate project planning techniques resulting in the development of a project initiation document;

• employ appropriate requirements gathering, analysis and modeling techniques in order to develop a requirements specification;

• be able to specify the design for a system in an appropriate format;



• complete user acceptance testing for the system;

• create appropriate user documentation for the system; and

• implement the system to meet specified user requirements.

IIFFSS332233EE EEnntteerrpprriissee IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn SSyysstteemmss

Purpose

This module is aimed at providing the students with the role played by Information technology applications in facilitating organisational functional areas; by supporting problem solving, increasing productivity, managing people, improving customer service and also fast-tracking business processes.

The students will understand how enterprise systems foster stronger relationships with customers and suppliers and how these systems are widely used to enforce organizational structures and processes.

Prerequisites


Assessment




• know the fundamentals of enterprise information systems and have a holistic view on this topic;

• understand the role of enterprise systems for increasing enterprise productivity and transparency;

• understand major Enterprise Architecture models used in the industry;

• identify, describe, and evaluate the major enterprise system software providers and their packaged systems;

• recognize how an organizational process often spans different functional areas; and

• have the skills they need in order to ensure successful implementation and usage of enterprise systems in business.





Introduction to Enterprise Information Systems:

• Information and Systems

• EIS concepts

• IT Strategic Alignment

• Change Management

Understanding Enterprise Architecture (Models):

• Understanding Enterprise Architecture (EA)

• Introduction to EA Models

Introduction to Integrated Systems and ERP:

• Enterprise Resource Planning Systems

• Cost and Benefits of implementing an ERP system.

Business Processes:

• Sales and Marketing

• SCM

• Accounting and

• Human Resources

Process Modelling:

• ERP Workflow Tools

• ERP Implementation



IIFFSS550033EE IISS RReesseeaarrcchh PPrroojjeecctt

Purpose

The purpose of the research project is to apply knowledge and skills gained in the research methods module in order to complete a mini-treatise.

Prerequisites

None

Assessment

Continuous evaluation


As exit level outcomes, students should be able to:

• Compile a research treatise, based on a substantive literature review having been done.

• Prepare a research article.



Research Treatise:

• Complete a research proposal for an identified problem.

• Complete a literature review on the identified research topic.

• Prepare a description of a contribution from the research, i.e. a conceptual model/framework or critical success factors (CSFs) based on the presented literature, and linked to the research problem.

• Compile the research proposal, literature review, and description of the contribution into a single flowing and cohesive document (research treatise).

• Make use of APA referencing style throughout the article.

Research Article:

• Prepare a 5000 word, single spaced article based on the research treatise.

• Make use of APA referencing style throughout the article.



IIFFSS551133EE RReeqquuiirreemmeennttss MMaannaaggeemmeenntt

Purpose

This course aims to establish the importance of requirements engineering and management, consolidate techniques for requirements elicitation; and model and assess the efficacy of different modeling techniques. Furthermore, students gain valuable, practical experience through the modelling of system requirements using the Unified Modelling Language and Business Process Modelling Notation.

Prerequisites

None

Assessment

Class work, assignments, presentations and a three-hour examination



• demonstrate a sound appreciation for the field of Requirements Engineering and Management and associated challenges,

• understand what constitutes software requirements and the risks thereof;

• develop an appreciation of what constitutes successful system development and the role of scope management;

• be aware of the tools and techniques that are available for requirements elicitation and specification;

• have a sound knowledge of various types of documentation and modelling techniques, specifically UML and BPMN;

• be able to explain what requirements management and validation involves and the significance thereof; and

• have an understanding of change, risk and issue management and associated processes.





Requirements and Requirements Engineering:

• Revise concepts relating to requirements, levels of requirements and the importance of requirements.

• Introduce the requirements engineering process.

Successful Systems Development and Scope Management:

• Evaluate what constitutes successful system development.

• Describe the various perspective gaps between users and developers.

• Establish the importance of scope management.

• Explore typical scope-related problems.

• Identify methods of assessing and prioritizing requirements.

Communication, Quality, Risk and Issue Management:

• Describe the importance of stakeholder communication and the communications management processes.

• Explore the concepts of software quality, the characteristics of software quality and quality management processes.

• Describe risks and risk management in software development.

• Describe issues and issue management in software development.

Requirements Elicitation Techniques and Challenges of Requirements Elicitation:

• Explore current methods of elicitation and challenges typically encountered.

Requirements Specification Techniques: Modelling Types and Problems:

• Explore the various methods of modeling requirements and the shortcomings of these methods.

• Model business processes using BPMN 2.0.

Requirements Validation:

• Describe the importance of requirements validation.

• Explore the different methods for requirements validation.



IIFFSS551166EE RReesseeaarrcchh MMeetthhooddss

Purpose

This course provides learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct research in the Information Systems discipline and to prepare learners for studies towards a higher degree. It aims to create an understanding of where research fits into the overall knowledge acquisition process perspective.

Additionally, this course introduces the learner to research methods, including critical thinking, analysis of data, presentation skills, report writing and academic writing.

Prerequisites

None

Assessment




• be able to explain key terms, and be able to identify the epistemologies underpinning research;

• demonstrate the applicability of qualitative and quantitative methods and the benefits of each approach;

• explain the challenges of collecting and analysing both qualitative and quantitative data including aligning the appropriate methods to research paradigms;

• be able to search through secondary data, both library and electronic (Internet) resources, and effectively discuss and analyse the data, plus present the findings in an innovative evidential way; and

• present the findings and discussion by means of academic essays and presentations to staff and peers.




Learning Objectives

• A coherent and critical understanding of terms, concepts, principles/ rules and theories of one or more disciplines/fields.

• An ability to use existing and recent knowledge and theory and the ability to evaluate a multiplicity of possible answers.

• An understanding of the central methods of enquiry and research in a discipline/field.

• The ability to identify, distinguish, effectively select and apply procedures, processes, methods/techniques.

• An ability to deal with defined and/or routine problems and issues, using a range of enquiry skills to engage with conceptual and/or evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments.

• The ability to demonstrate well-developed information retrieval skills and the analysis, synthesis and evaluation of quantitative and/or qualitative data, including the appropriate use of ICT.

• The ability to present and communicate information and own ideas and opinions in well-structured arguments, showing an awareness of context and audience in the appropriate use of academic/professional discourse.

IIFFSS551188EE HHuummaann CCoommppuutteerr IInntteerraaccttiioonn

Purpose

The purpose of this course is to inculcate an understanding and practical knowledge of the importance of interaction and interface design of current and next-generation technologies. Students will gain an understanding of how to design interactive products that enhance and extend the way people communicate, interact and work. This lays a firm foundation for further studies in the discipline.

Prerequisites

None



Assessment

Class work, assignments, presentations and a three-hour examination.


As exit level outcomes, students should demonstrate:

• an understanding of what interaction design is, its importance when developing applications, products, services and systems, and who and what is involved in the process;

• an understanding of the importance of understanding and conceptualizing a problem and design space before trying to build anything;

• an understanding of the need to understand users, especially their cognitive aspects;

• knowledge of the diversity of interfaces that can be designed for user experiences, and the key design issues and research questions that need to be addressed; and

• the ability to evaluate interactive products and explain why some interfaces are good and others are bad.



What is Interaction Design?

• Explore the difference between good and poor interaction design.

• Understand what interaction design is and how it relates to human-computer interaction and other fields.

• Understand the difference between user experience and usability.

• Describe what and who is involved in the process of interaction design.

• Have knowledge of specific usability goals, user experience goals and design principles and be able to apply them when evaluating an interactive product.

Understanding and Conceptualizing Interaction

• Explain what is meant by the problem space.

• Be able to conceptualize interaction.

• Describe what a conceptual model is and to be able to begin to formulate one.

• Discuss the use of interface metaphors as part of a conceptual model.

• Outline the core interaction types for informing the development of a conceptual model.



Cognitive Aspects

• Understand what cognition is and why it is important for interaction design.

• Discuss what attention is and its effects on our ability to multitask.

• Describe how memory can be enhanced through technology aids.

• Explain what mental models are.

• Show the difference between classic internal cognitive frameworks (e.g. mental models) and more recent external cognitive approaches (e.g. distributed cognition) that have been applied to HCI.

• Be able to elicit a mental model and be able to understand what it means.

Interfaces

• Provide an overview of the main different kinds of interfaces.

• Highlight the main design and research issues for each of the interfaces.

• Discuss the difference between graphical (GUIs) and natural user interfaces (NUIs).

• Consider which interface is best for a given application or activity.

The Process of Interaction Design

• Consider what doing interaction design involves.

• Explain some advantages of involving users in development.

• Explain the main principles of a user-centred approach.

• Understand a simple lifecycle model of interaction design.

• Be able to provide answers for some important questions about the interaction design process.

• Consider how interaction design activities can be integrated into the wiser product development lifecycle.

Introducing Evaluation

• Be able to explain the key concepts and terms used in evaluation.

• Understand a range of different types of evaluation methods.

• Be able to show how different evaluation methods are used for different purposes at different stages of the design process and in different contexts of use.

• Show how evaluators mix and modify methods to meet the demands of novel systems.

• Discuss some of the practical challenges that evaluators have to consider when doing evaluation.

• Discover through short case studies how methods are used in evaluation and describe some methods that are specific to evaluation.



Evaluation: Inspections, Analytics, and Models

• Describe the key concepts associated with inspection methods.

• Be able to do heuristic evaluation and walkthroughs.

• Be able to explain the role of analytics in evaluation.

• Be able to perform/apply two types of predictive methods: GOMS and Fitts’ Law.

IIFFSS552255EE IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn SSeeccuurriittyy MMaannaaggeemmeenntt

Purpose

This course gives learners an understanding of the issues relevant to Information Security Management. It provides a broad overview of the entire field of information security, background on many related elements, and enough detail to facilitate an understanding of the topic as a whole. The course covers the terminology of the field, the history of the discipline, and strategies for managing an information security programme.

The course is structured to follow a model called the Security Systems Development Life Cycle (SecSDLC). The use of a structured methodology is intended to provide a supportive but not overly dominant foundation that will guide learners through an examination of the various components of the information domains of information security.

Prerequisites

None

Assessment




• define key terms and critical concepts of information security then enumerate the phases of the Security Systems Development Life Cycle;

• identify the threats posed to information and the more common attacks associated with those threats (learners to distinguish between unintentional and intentional threats);

• describe the major laws that affect the practice of information security and differentiate between laws and ethics;



• explain risk management, risk identification and describe how to maintain and perpetuate risk controls; and

• describe how to plan for both logical and physical design.



Security Investigation Phase:

• Identify threats posed to information security.

Professional, Legal, and Ethical Issues in Information Security:

• Describe the functions of and relationships among laws, regulations, and professional organisations in information security.

Security Analysis:

• Discuss managing IT risk.

Security Design:

• Identify ways of how to plan for logical security.

• Identify ways of how to plan for physical security.

Security Technology:

• Discuss wireless, VPNs, firewalls, prevention systems, and intrusion detection.

• Successfully use an encryption programme e.g. PGP.

Implementation:

• Explain how an organisation’s information security blueprint becomes a project plan.

• Describe technical strategies and models for implementing a project plan.

Maintenance and Change:

• Explain the issues and concerns related to staffing (employment policies and practices, separation of duties, privacy of personnel data) and the information security function.

• Identify the key factors involved in monitoring the external and internal environment.

• Describe how planning, risk assessment, vulnerability assessment, and remediation tie into information security maintenance.



IIFFSS552277EE IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn SSyysstteemmss MMaannaaggeemmeenntt

Purpose

This course is aimed at equipping students with skills needed for effective IS management. The value of information systems in organisation will be explored more especially with reference to strategy and management of organizations.

Current IT governance topics like IS strategy development, Business Process Management, Service Oriented Architecture, SaaS ERP applications are presented. CobiT, Balanced Scorecard, ITIL, ISO27002 are some of the tools and standards covered in the module. The student is expected to develop the skills to assess the opportunities and challenges that result from the management processes.

Prerequisites

None

Assessment




• be able to make intelligent choices about best practices and standards to improve business competitiveness;

• play a role in application’s portfolio analysis;

• demonstrate a sound knowledge of business value chains and role of collaborative systems in developing more flexible, fast response organizations;

• understand emerging IS management trends and technologies;

• develop and evaluate IS strategies to solve IS-related problems requiring management attention;

• fluently and comfortably address issues relating to the management of the IS function and its resources; and

• to make informed decision about an appropriate IT governance framework for the organisation.





Business Value of IT:

• Business Process Management

• Business Analysis Techniques Efficiency & Effectiveness Competitiveness

IS/IT Strategic Analysis:

• Assessing and Understanding the Current Situation

• Determining the Future Potential

• Portfolio Management (including application portfolio management)

IT Governance Framework:

• Overview Corporate Governance

• Strategic Alignment

• Value Delivery

• Performance Measurement

• Risk Management

• Resource Management

Tools and Standards for ISM:

• CobiT

• ITIL

• ISO27002

• Balanced Scorecard

Current Issues in ISM:

• Shared Services

• Strategic Management of Resources (outsourcing, etc.)

• Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) and the impact on the IS/IT department

• Cloud Computing

• Mobile Applications and Infrastructure

• Dynamic BPM: How Adaptable are your Processes



IIFFSS552299EE IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn SSyysstteemm TTrreennddss

Purpose

This course aims to introduce students to the latest trends in Information Systems Development and Management. Topics covered include hype cycle trends, green IT and social networking in a business context.

Prerequisites

None

Assessment

Class work, assignments, presentations, and a three-hour examination



• have an understanding of the implications of social networking in a business context;

• be aware of the implications of personal social networking use in future employment;

• demonstrate a sound appreciation for the various trends in the ICT arena and how these trends affect business operations and decisions;

• have an understanding of the business implications of Green IT; and

• be aware of the aspects of new media which impact on the information society.



Social Networking in Business:

• Discuss the implications and usefulness of social networking tools in a business environment, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.

The Business Case for GreenIT:

• Introduce the concept of Green IT and the need to adopt Green IT practices.

• Explore the elements of a green office strategy.

• Discuss the implications and usefulness of aspects of Green IT in a business environment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses.



Hype Cycle Trends:

• Discuss and define the trend and the implementation of it in a business environment.

New Media in the Information Society:

• Define new media and distinguish new media from traditional media.

• Explore the characteristics and benefits of new media.

• Discuss the implications of cyber crime for a business.

• Explore the extent of e-government applications in South Africa and the implication of the digital divide on the success of these.

• Explore the extent of ICT infrastructure and development globally and a comparison to the situation in South Africa. Additionally, to discuss the value of mobile technologies in alleviating the burden of providing adequate resources to all citizens.

• Discuss the types and symptoms of internet addiction, the problems caused by Internet Addiction and how this disorder can be prevented or treated.

• Explore the background of the regulatory environment in South Africa with regards to ICT, and provide a comparison to regulatory environment in foreign countries.



MMyy NNootteess





Documents

Departmental Handbook (Formatted as A5)