This module aims to provide students with the fundamental knowledge and key skills required to become an effective communicator and a computing professional. It covers an overview of the economic, historic, organisational, research and social perspectives of computing. In addition, the module covers concepts of professional ethics as well as social and legal aspects of computing. It is essential for students who have the prospect of pursuing a career as an IT professional and covers topics required for accreditation by the British Computer Society.
A.Describe and discuss economic, historic, organisational, research and social aspects of Computer Science and the IT industry.
B.Appraise professional, ethical, legal and social issues related to the work of a professional within the IT industry using the BCS codes of conduct and practice.
C.Have an awareness of employability skills and the role of computing professionals.
Lectures: Students will be expected to attend weekly formal lectures which will introduce key topics for the module.
Practicals: Computer lab practicals are held each week for students to work under staff guidance on problems designed to reinforce understanding of the lecture materials.
Private study: In a typical week students are expected to devote 6 to 7 hours of unsupervised time to private study for background reading, exercise of tutorial/practical work and the completion of assessments.
Assessments: A continuous assessment will be used to test the extent to which students have achieved the learning outcomes of the module.
Some seminars may be co-taught by staff from the English Language Centre, who will use activities to further develop the English language skills of students within the context of Information and Computer Science studies. Students may also be provided with online language/study skills support from the English Language Centre (ELC) to help them engage with module content.