COURSE AND ASSIGNMENT HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 PROGRAMME BACHELOR OF COMMERCE (BCOM YEAR 1) INFORMATION & TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT INTAKE JANUARY 2012 COURSE AND ASSIGNMENT HANDBOOK Copyright 2012 THE MANAGEMENT COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN AFRICA All rights reserved, no part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means, including photocopying machines, without the written permission of the publisher

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3 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. WELCOME 1.1 MESSAGE FROM PRINCIPAL AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS MESSAGE FROM THE ACADEMIC DIRECTOR 5 2. INTRODUCTION TO MANCOSA 2.1 BRIEF HISTORY OF MANCOSA PROGRAMME OFFERINGS DIRECTORS 6 3. THE MANCOSA MISSION 7 4. OUR VISION 7 5. BCOM INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME STRUCTURE 5.1 OVERALL PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES PROGRAMME FOCUS MODULE DESCRIPTION AND RATIONALE PROGRAMME ADMINISTRATION 6.1 PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REGISTRATION REGISTRY AND DESPATCH FINANCE FEE PAYMENT PAYMENT OF FEES AND OTHER DUES RE-ENROLMENT PAYMENT PLANS ADDITIONAL FEES/CHARGES DEFERRALS MISCELLANEOUS COSTS CANCELLATION OF REGISTRATION/FEE LIABILITY REGISTRATION FOR SPECIFIC/INCOMPLETE MODULES PAYMENTS ACCOUNT DETAILS FOREIGN PAYMENTS ASSESSMENTS METHOD OF ASSESSMENT MITIGATING CIRCUMSTANCES APPEALS PLAGIARISM RE-REGISTRATION FOR A PROGRAMME/MODULE PROGRESSION AWARD OF QUALIFICATION MARKING CRITERIA STUDENT SUPPORT THE MANCOSA STUDENT SUPPORT CENTRE REGIONAL OFFICES/REPRESENTATIVES

4 2 6.7 ACADEMIC SUPPORT REGIONAL TUTOR SUPPORT (ACADEMIC FACULTY) MODULE CO-ORDINATION AND SUPPORT LIBRARY SERVICES WEBSITE/ONLINE LEARNING CENTRE MODULE GUIDES PRESCRIBED TEXTBOOKS IT AND WEBSITE RESEARCH GENERAL OWNERSHIP OF WORK PRODUCED BY STUDENTS PUBLICATION OR DISPLAY OF PROJECT REPORTS EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES STATEMENT OF INTENT FREEDOM OF SPEECH GRADUATION RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING WORKSHOPS 7.1 WORKSHOP VENUES WORKSHOP DATES WORKSHOP PROGRAMMES ASSIGNMENTS 8.1 SUBMISSION MODE OF DELIVERY OF ASSIGNMENTS ASSIGNMENT ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT ASSIGNMENT SUBMISSION PROCEDURE GENERAL GUIDELINES TO SUBMISSION OF ASSIGNMENTS POLICY REGARDING GROUP ASSIGNMENTS AND PLAGIARISM ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF ASSIGNMENTS RELEASE OF ASSIGNMENT RESULTS EXTENSION OF SUBMISSION DATES LATE SUBMISSION OF ASSIGNMENTS RE-SUBMISSION OF ASSIGNMENTS RE-MARKING OF ASSIGNMENTS ASSIGNMENT COVERSHEET RETURN OF ASSIGNMENTS TO STUDENTS ASSIGNMENT SUBMISSION DATES ASSIGNMENT QUESTIONS - BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1A INFORMATICS 1A 42 - ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES ECONOMICS 1A BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 1B INFORMATICS 1B 56 - FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING 1T ECONOMICS 1B

5 3 9. EXAMINATIONS 9.1 EXAMINATION DATES AND TIMES EXAMINATION VENUES GENERAL EXAMINATION INFORMATION ELIGIBILITY TO SIT FOR AN EXAMINATION FAILURE TO WRITE AN EXAMINATION MARKING OF EXAMINATION SCRIPTS RE-MARKING OF EXAMINATION SCRIPTS AEGROTAT EXAMINATIONS SUPPLEMENTARY EXAMINATIONS SPECIAL EXAMINATIONS REQUIREMENTS TO WRITE AN EXAMINATION PERSONALISED EXAM TIMETABLES 79 APPENDICES - APPENDIX A ASSIGNMENT COVER SHEET (SAMPLE) 80 - APPENDIX B EXTENSION REQUEST FORM 81 - APPENDIX C AEGROTAT APPLICATION FORM 82 - APPENDIX D APPEALS FORM 83 - APPENDIX E ACKNOWLEDGEMENT RECEIPT FORM 84 - APPENDIX F CREDIT CARD PAYMENT FORM 85 - APPENDIX G DEBIT ORDER AUTHORISATION FORM 86 3

6 4 1. WELCOME 1.1 MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS PROF YUSUF KARODIA Choosing a business school is certainly one of the most important decisions, made even more difficult in our changing times where the world has lost its old equilibrium without having found new values. The frontiers of the economy are reforming and in continuous evolution and work opportunities are emerging. In this brave new world tertiary institutions can no longer limit itself to provide text book knowledge and mere academic preparation reducing itself to an 'exam house' attaching titles and empty labels, neither can it continue to ignore the changing needs of a global employment market and the profound changes in the environment awaiting the students beyond the campuses. MANCOSA s mission is to prepare a new breed of leaders, courageous, sincere individuals with the intellectual abilities, cross cultural versatility, practical skills and ethics needed to operate in today's business world. With programmes designed to accommodate individuals with diverse needs and lifestyles, MANCOSA distance learning programmes are in great demand with the rigour and innovation to create reflective practitioners. Participants are immersed in an active education that will challenge their assumptions, disrupt their ordinary ways of doing business, and introduce them to new and unexpected ways of thinking. By participating, you will be prepared for the next step in your career and life, demonstrating leadership skills among your peers. Most important, you will return to your organisation with fresh ideas, new business skills, and a greater capacity for addressing the challenges your company will face. MANCOSA programmes promote a high level of independence through innovative learning and assessment interventions. You can expect a carefully integrated mix of lectures; access to well designed self study materials and online learning resources. One key feature of MANCOSA is its use of case studies, an active learning model that teaches participants how to assess, analyse, and act upon complex business issues. Rooted in real-life experiences, the business case method develops analytical skills, sound judgment, and the leadership potential within each participant. This will equip you with cutting-edge skills that will position you to be a leader in your organisation and community. For those who are prepared to embrace the challenges of this programme, you will find unique rewards with lasting impact for your organisation and career. We wish you well in your academic endeavours and assure you of our continued support towards realising your goals. I wish you well in your studies. Prof YM Karodia 4

7 5 1.2 MESSAGE FROM THE ACADEMIC DIRECTOR DR AI MOOLLA Welcome to the MANCOSA BCOM programme. You are about to embark upon a challenging, new journey, discovering new horizons and breaking new frontiers of knowledge. For the duration of the programme you will be exposed to outstanding teachers who will not only share with you their knowledge of the current management practices necessary for a global, dynamic and turbulent environment, but who will also guide you and mentor you to enable you to develop critical-thinking and life-long learning skills. Enjoy your journey on this road that will lead you to a higher level of knowledge, skills and abilities. 2. INTRODUCTION TO MANCOSA 2.1 BRIEF HISTORY OF MANCOSA The Management College of Southern Africa (MANCOSA) is a private Higher Education institute registered in terms of the Higher Education Act (Act 101 of 1997). It was established in 1995 as a post-apartheid empowerment institution offering affordable and accessible management education primarily to persons previously denied access to post graduate education. MANCOSA has 100% Black ownership, i.e. it is owned entirely by previously disadvantaged individuals in the South African context. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme has been offered since Between 1995 and 2000 MANCOSA provided management programmes in association with the Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College (BCUC), a College of the University of Brunel in the United Kingdom. During this period MANCOSA was successfully quality assured by the British Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). In 2002 MANCOSA received full institutional accreditation from the Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC), the quality assuring committee of the Council on Higher Education (CHE). MANCOSA is one of the leading providers of international and local management programmes through supported distance learning in Southern Africa. Recent developments have included the introduction of tuition classes which cater for those learners that prefer additional support. In delivering its range of Management Education programmes to a diverse body of learners from both the public and private sectors, MANCOSA has developed significant infrastructural, academic and intellectual capacity. As a leading provider of management programmes by supported distance education, MANCOSA has considerable expertise in the design and development of high quality and relevant course materials. It has developed unique teaching and learning strategies, particularly suited for transferring knowledge and skills to adult learners, the majority of whom are in full time employment. Through its active research focus, MANCOSA is also at the cutting edge of the latest management and leadership training trends. 5

8 6 2.2 PROGRAMME OFFERINGS MANCOSA programmes cover the areas of business administration, commerce, tourism management, functional management and leadership and range from Certificate programmes to Master s degrees. MANCOSA offers the following accredited and registered programmes: 1. Certificate in Project Management (NQF Level 4) 2. Certificate in Supervisory Management (NQF Level 4) 3. National Certificate in Project Management (NQF Level 5) 4. National Certificate in Supervisory Management (NQF Level 5) 5. National Certificate in Office Administration (NQF Level 5) 6. Higher Certificate in Business Management (NQF Level 5) 7. Higher Certificate in Local Government and Development Management (NQF Level 5) 8. Higher Certificate in Labour Studies (NQF Level 5) 9. Certificate in School Governance (NQF Level 5) 10. Advanced Certificate in Management Studies (CM) (NQF Level 6) 11. Diploma in Advanced Management (AMD) (NQF Level 6) 12. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree (NQF Level 7) 13. Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) degree (NQF Level 7) 14. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): HRM degree (NQF Level 7) 15. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): Marketing degree (NQF Level 7) 16. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): Information Management and Technology degree (NQF Level 7) 17. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): Supply Chain Management degree (NQF Level 7) 18. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): HRM degree - Honours (NQF Level 8) 19. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): Marketing degree - Honours (NQF Level 8) 20. Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) degree - Honours (NQF Level 8) 21. Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Management (NQF Level 8) 22. Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management (DBM) (NQF Level 8) 23. Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management (NQF Level 8) 24. Master of Business Administration (MBA): General degree (NQF Level 9) 25. MBA: Tourism Development and Management degree (NQF Level 9) 2.3 DIRECTORS DESIGNATION Principal Managing Director Director: Quality Assurance Director: Finance Director: Academic Director: Marketing NAME Prof YM Karodia Prof H Rasool Prof A Hansraj Mr MY Karodia Prof AI Moolla Mrs F Ussuph 6

9 7 3. THE MANCOSA MISSION The Management College of Southern Africa seeks to contribute to the changing management education demands of Southern Africa through learning programmes responsive to the needs of students, the community and the region as a whole. In pursuit of this mission, MANCOSA is committed to: Directing all its resources to the pursuit of quality, equity and excellence in empowering people by providing opportunities to advance their careers; Catering for the education and training needs of all sectors of our society by providing affordable, accessible and accredited programmes; Providing quality management education and training programmes to develop the entrepreneurial spirit in the Southern African region; Serving the Southern African economic region through academic and training programmes responsive to the unique needs of its people and their goals; Developing national and international collaborative relationships in order to enhance the quality and range of its education and training programmes; Benchmarking its programmes against best national and international practice; Maintaining a quality of service that maximises the realisation of student potential, both in the private and public sectors, by responding to the changing needs of the labour market; Contributing to the transformation process of higher education in Southern Africa; Promoting opportunity, equality and social justice irrespective of race, colour, creed and gender. 4. OUR VISION MANCOSA's vision is to be recognised as a leading, world-class higher education institution that is committed to quality, equity and excellence in the development and delivery of its programmes. MANCOSA's vision includes expanding its programmes into the SADC countries, thus providing much needed higher education to develop an entrepreneurial spirit that ultimately facilitates social and economic development in the regions. MANCOSA is also committed to contributing towards: Facilitating access to, and mobility and progression within education, training and career paths; Enhancing the quality of education and training provision; Accelerating the redress of past unfair discrimination in education, training and employment opportunities; Contributing to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the nation at large. 7

10 8 5. BCOM (INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT) PROGRAMME STRUCTURE 5.1 OVERALL PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES The BCom (Information & Technology Mgt) programme focuses on the following key learning objectives: The structure of data, information and knowledge in an organisational setting;, The application of information and knowledge management principles and theories in a variety of organisational settings; The application of information and knowledge management principles in the different functional units of an enterprise; The architecture, platforms and configuration of systems to generate information and knowledge for decision making; Utilisation of information and knowledge management as a strategic tool for competitive advantage; Analysis, evaluation and representation of financial, quantitative and functional information and knowledge for meaningful interpretation; Proposal of business solutions through information and knowledge management techniques. 5.2 PROGRAMME FOCUS From the very outset, the MANCOSA Bachelor of Commerce BCom (Information and Technology Management) Programme strives to maximise personal development, grow management and leadership skills and contribute to positive economic change in the countries from which students are drawn. The main focus of the programme is to ensure that students develop the ability to apply management theory in practice. The curriculum consists of 360 credits progressively arrayed in 22 modules and a Capstone Project over a minimum of 3 years of study. Students must pass a particular module before proceeding to the consecutively numbered module with the same title. Six of the modules (90 credits) are fundamental. All students take the same (fundamental and core) modules in the all levels of the curriculum. These modules induce the students to learn the basic skills that the programme demands, to understand the theoretical core of the disciplines of Information technology, Economics and Business Management, and to understand the context in which these disciplines are practiced. The modules covered in the BCom (Information and Technology Management) Programme are as follows: STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3 Business Management 1A Informatics 1A Analytical Techniques 1T Economics 1A Business Management 1B Informatics 1B Financial Accounting 1T Economics 1B IT Management 2A Informatics 2A Management Accounting 1T Project Management 1T IT Management 2B Informatics 2B Business Statistics 1T Information Systems 1T IT Management 3A Informatics 3A Auditing 3T Systems Analysis and Design 3T IT Management 3B Informatics 3B Capstone Project 8

11 9 5.3 MODULE DESCRIPTION AND RATIONALE YEAR 1 1. Business Management 1A (15 Credits) Core Purpose The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the field of study of business management, focusing on the management environment, the management process, and the evolution of management theory. At the conclusion of the module students should be able to understand some of the theoretical content of business management and discuss it critically in relation to certain simple selected situations that might arise in the context of managing a business. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Define Management Trace the evolution of management theories Outline the challenges confronting managers Describe the management environment Describe the functions of managers Differentiate between the different functions of management. 2. Informatics 1A (15 Credits) Core Purpose To enable the learner to analyse, design and develop algorithms into programs demonstrating the correctness using a visual computer language such as Visual Basic. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Use a computer to solve problems. Analyse, design and evaluate algorithms. Program algorithms in an object-oriented language such as Visual Basic. Demonstrate the correctness of a computer program. 3. Analytical Techniques 1T (15 Credits) Fundamental Purpose To provide the necessary background for students to appreciate the relevance and importance of rigorous data and the methods required to process such data. Furthermore it is designed to provide students with the relevant tools to plan, and carry out investigations in an appropriate manner. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Identify and apply appropriate statistical methods for data interpretation Process and present statistical analyses Appreciate the importance of analysis in research Develop a research protocol Describe and select an appropriate analytical method to solve a particular problem Use a range of analytical methods Record data in an appropriate style 9

12 10 4. Economics 1A (15 Credits) Core Purpose This module offers an introduction to the workings of market systems. It deals with the economic behaviour of consumers and firms, covering analysis of demand and supply of goods, services and resources within an economy. The framework developed is used to examine and evaluate the operation of the market mechanism for various market structures and government policies. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Explain the economic problem of scarcity Discuss the goals and instruments of a market economy Analyse the forces of supply and demand Identify and explain the role of the various economic subjects in the economy. Interpret price elasticity of demand, income elasticity and cross-price elasticity Explain the concept of a rational consumer Apply the important production concepts Apply the important cost concepts Analyse and identify the economic dynamics of the various market structures Recognise the limitations of markets Explain how governments influence market allocations 5. Business Management 1B (15 Credits) Core Purpose This module exposes students to an array of organisational structures and theories in relation to central and strategic management. It also involves students in the study of functional areas of management, including operations management, marketing management, human resource management and financial management. At the end of the module students should be able to understand and discuss organisations and organisational theory, and to propose solutions to a variety of more complex problems that might arise in the course of managing a business. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Conceptualise the skills managers must acquire in their roles Analyse the four primary management tasks Differentiate between the functional areas of management Outline the importance of each functional area of management Identify the relationship between functional areas of management 10

13 11 6. Informatics 1B (15 Credits) Core Purpose To enable the learner to represent data in the memory of a computer. To enable the learner to develop object oriented and component based computer programs, in a computer language such as Visual Basic. To introduce the learner to introductory concepts of social and professional issues with relevance to Information Technology Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Explain the meaning of abstract data types Explain the structure of internal data types such as stacks, linked lists and queues Explain the structure of external data types such as sequential, direct and indexed files Explain and compare the object orientated programming paradigm and the component approach to program development Develop object-oriented and component based programs in a computer language such as Visual Basic Explain introductory concepts concerning social and professional issues in information technology A minimum of two lectures will be spent on social and professional conduct in Information Technology. This knowledge will be explicitly tested by a compulsory exam question. 7. Financial Accounting 1T (15 Credits) Fundamental Purpose The purpose of this module is to cover the basic concepts of accounting, the recording of various elementary transactions and the accounting cycle. This module deals with the recording and control of various assets and liabilities and the accounting records of a sole trader and a non-trading enterprise. This module familiarises the student with recording, classifying and interpreting financial data for a business. It includes a study of the journals, ledgers and financial statements used by these entities. It also covers credit instruments, depreciation of plant assets, internal control, and liabilities. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Prepare journal entries (subsidiary journals); post the entries to the ledger Prepare a trial balance and correct the trial balance where necessary Prepare the financial statements of a sole trader Identify, explain, calculate, record, present and disclose receivables, payables, inventories, cash, property, plant and equipment Prepare a reconciliation of debtors and creditors accounts Prepare a statement of receipts and payments and financial statements of a non-trading enterprise. Prepare a bank reconciliation statement Classify and interpret financial data for a business. 11

14 12 8. Economics 1B (15 Credits) Core Purpose This module analyses aggregate economic activity in the national economy and its interrelationships with the rest of the world. Emphasis is placed on basic principles involved in the determination of the level of national output, the aggregate price level, and the money supply. Alternative explanations of key macroeconomic problems and relevant economic policies are compared. The theoretical concepts are illustrated from a range of Southern African and international examples. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Explain the basic principles of macroeconomics Demonstrate knowledge of competing macroeconomic theories. Demonstrate knowledge of macroeconomic variables and the measurement of such variables Explain the basic relationships between different macroeconomic variables. Recognise the relationships between national income, unemployment, budget deficit, money supply, interest rate, inflation rate, exchange rate and trade deficit. Construct a simple macroeconomic model based on aggregate demand and aggregate supply Outline the implications of international trade and capital movements for macroeconomic aggregates in a small open economy. YEAR 2 1. Information Management 2A (15 Credits) Core Purpose The purpose of this course is to expose learners to the basic and advanced principles of information and communication technologies so that the development of a basic computer system and its integration with business objectives can be lead. This includes the principles of enterprise wide technologies. Outcomes At the end of this course the learner will be able to: Describe the basic principles of information and communication technology such as hardware, software, Internet, Intranet, Extranet Integrate different information and communication technologies in support of the organisational goals Explain enterprise wide information technology Describe how workflow works and what technology is required for it 2. Informatics 2A (15 Credits) Core Purpose To ensure that the learner will have knowledge on theoretical aspects of database models (relational model), on the entity-relationship (E-R) modeling procedure and on the normalizing of a database's relations. To expose the learner to practical experience in the design of a relational database and the related E-R modelling and normalization Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Do a critical analysis and comparison of different database models. Develop a relational database for the solution of business problems. Use entity-relationship modelling in the design of a 3NF relational database. Develop an object-orientated computer program in Visual Basic to manipulate a relational database. 12

15 13 3. Management Accounting 1T (15 Credits) Fundamental Purpose The purpose of this module is to provide the learner with information for sound management decision-making. The student will appreciate the value of management accounting with respect to the implementation of forecasting, planning and control. Furthermore, it will help develop cost control systems and financial reporting systems and ensures flexibility in response to changes in the environment. It also helps the student identify limitations in the organisation through an effective reporting system. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Explain the need for pre-determined costs and management accounting systems Distinguish between direct and indirect costs and fixed and variable costs Calculate the value of stock using different valuation methods Explain Absorption Costing/Marginal Costing and Breakeven Analysis Determine the optimal costing methods (Absorption Costing vs Marginal Costing) Explain the principles of effective budgeting Implement Cost control using Standard Costing methods Use techniques of Investment Appraisal. 4. Project Management (15 Credits) Fundamental Purpose The purpose of this module is to provide students with a structured approach to managing projects. It outlines the latest planning and control techniques used by industry in the management of projects. The key objective is to develop a fully integrated information and control system to plan, instruct, monitor and control large amounts of data, quickly and accurately to facilitate the problem-solving and decision making process. Outcomes At the end the learner will be able to: Practice the process of project management and its application in delivering successful IT projects Evaluate a project to develop the scope of work, provide accurate cost estimates and to plan the various activities Use risk management analysis techniques that identify the factors that put a project at risk Identify the resources required for a project and to produce a work plan and resource schedule Monitor the progress of a project and to assess the risk of slippage, revising targets or counteract drift Distinguish between the different types of project and follow the stages needed to negotiate an appropriate contract 5. Information Management 2B (15 Credits) Core Purpose: The purpose of this course is to expose learners to information technology and processes that will facilitate management and decision making in organisations. Outcomes: At the end of this course the learner will be able to: Understand and apply the principles of data warehousing and data mining Understand and apply the basic principles of information security analysis and evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of information technology investments Understand the impact of information technology on the organisation, individual and society. 13

16 14 6. Informatics 2B (15 Credits) Core Purpose To ensure that a learner will have knowledge on the architecture and functioning of the Internet; will be able to explain how the Internet can be used in applications such as the WWW, e-commerce and and explain the role of network security in the protection of information. To introduce the learner to ethical and professional issues with relevance to Information Technology. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Evaluate the role of the Internet in applications such as the WWW, e-commerce and . Give a critical evaluation of security measures in electronic commerce over the Internet. To develop a web page in a convenient language such as HTML. Design a simple three-tier client/server system with a web page as user interface, an object orientated server and a relational database for executing electronic commerce transactions over a network. Explain ethical and professional issues concerning Information Technology 7. Business Statistics 1T (15 Credits) Fundamental Purpose The purpose of this module is to provide students with a working knowledge of quantitative analysis. It will provide future managers with the essential quantitative basis to be effective in the business world. It will provide an important tool in transforming raw data into meaningful, useful and usable information for decision-making. Outcomes: At the end the learner will be able to: Explain the importance of quantitative techniques in management Perform statistical analyses to extract additional information from business data. Manipulate gathered data through various statistical methods Prepare and interpret reports expressed in statistical terms Assess validity of statistical findings. 8. Information Systems 1T (15 Credits) Fundamental Purpose The objective of this course is to provide students with an insight into and knowledge of information systems, computers and computer technology, as well as an introduction to the use of a computer and application software in a business environment. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Describe the roles of information systems. Identify and explain the function of various hardware and software components Discuss the Input, Process and Output Comprehend the relationship between computer hardware, software, database management and telecommunications technologies. Explain how information technology is used in modern information systems to support the end user collaboration and managerial decision making 14

17 15 YEAR 3 1. Information Management 3A (15 Credits) Core Purpose The purpose of this module is to expose learners to the various components involved in managing an IT facility to facilitate the economic and effective management thereof. Outcomes: At the end of this course the learner will be able to: Identify the components involved in the management of an IT facility Appreciate the challenges in the management of an IT facility Apply various management techniques to manage an IT facility economically and effectively 2. Informatics 3A (15 Credits) Core Purpose To enable a learner to develop and implement computer systems for the solution of business problems. To obtain, on a practical level, experience in a team relationship; to identify, analyse and implement a prototype of a business system. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Explain the principles of software engineering. Indicate the steps in the development of an IT business system. Develop an object oriented client/server system for the Internet. Analyse and develop a prototype of a business system in a team relationship. 3. Auditing 3T (15 Credits) Core Purpose The purpose of this module is to first introduce students to the concept of auditing and auditing standards. The module then outline audit responsibilities, control models, techniques (audit programmes, working papers, audit findings, etc.), scientific methods (risk assessment and sampling), reporting, information technology auditing, managing the internal audit function (quality assurance, controlling audit projects, etc.), audit relationships (auditees, external auditors and the board), risk-based auditing and control self-assessment. Outcomes At the end of the module the learner will be able to: Be familiar with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) standards Describe the concept of internal control Identify weaknesses and suggest improvements; - understand the internal audit process Utilise different tools and techniques in the audit process Specify findings of the audit performed Apply statistical sampling techniques and other quantitative methods in an auditing procedure Be familiar with general and application controls in an information technology environment Perform an audit of computer programmes and data files 15

18 16 4. Systems Analysis and Design 3T (15 Credits) Core Purpose This module relates to systems analysis and design as applied to information systems and computer applications. It presents the learner with the tools, techniques and methods required in automation. The analysis of problems and processes in a logical manner, particularly through the use of mathematical models and formulas and with the aid of computers and other data processing equipment is covered Outcomes: At the end the learner will be able to: Explain the system development life cycle. Explain the concepts, skills, methodology and techniques used in structured analysis and design Utilise tools for analysis, design and development of the system. Explain the basic characteristics of object-oriented system Analyze and design the object-oriented system 5. Information Management 3B (15 Credits) Core Purpose The purpose of this module is to expose learners to the basic principles involved in the legal and ethical side of IT. This is done to prepare a learner to act as a professional person in the IT industry. Outcomes: At the end of this course the learner will be able to: Develop a better understanding of the human aspects of IT, specifically the ethical aspects in software Appreciate the ethical behaviour of a professional person in the IT industry Develop a basic understanding of the legal issues involved in IT Understand and apply the basic principles of information security. 6. Informatics 3B (15 Credits) Core Purpose To enable the learner to convey a thorough knowledge of project management. To gain experience, on a practical level, on compiling a web page for promoting and marketing a business system. To be engaged in implementing and demonstrating a prototype IT business system developed in a team relationship. To introduce the learner to legal and professional issues with relevance to Information Technology. Outcomes At the end the learner will be able to: Indicate the importance of project management aspects such as risk management, personnel management, task scheduling, measuring performance levels and quality management. Evaluate and apply software-testing strategies. Indicate the steps necessary to implement and operate an IT business system. Design a web page to market and promote an IT business system. Program, test and demonstrate a prototype IT business system developed in a team relationship. Explain legal and professional issues concerning Information Technology. A minimum of two lectures will be devoted to legal and professional Information Technology issues. 16

19 17 7. Capstone Project (30 Credits) Core Purpose The Capstone Project is an opportunity for students to complete the degree by addressing a practical, real world challenge using the skills and knowledge they have gained throughout their program of study. The Capstone Project culminates in a page paper and presentation. The written report includes the outcomes of the student's experience in addressing the information management challenge identified in the proposal. Outcomes At the end of this course the learner will be able to: To perform a sustained exercise in research in the field of human resource management Demonstrate competency in research methodology To write a research report To draw conclusions and make appropriate recommendations arising out of the research 17

20 18 6. PROGRAMME ADMINISTRATION 6.1 PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT The MANCOSA Management team will undertake the responsibility of administering the course from the point of recruitment to the point of graduation. All queries associated with course management and implementation should be directed to the Student Support Division or the respective Departmental Heads. 6.2 PROGRAMME REGISTRATION MANCOSA has two intakes per year. Every student must complete an Enrolment Contract as well as a MANCOSA application form at the start of each academic year, in order that he/she may become an officially enrolled student. Upon successful completion of a year of study, students are required to register for the following year of study. All queries regarding registration must be forwarded to: Head: Student Recruitment - bba@mancosa.ac.za Students who have outstanding modules will need to re-register for these modules. Queries in this regard must be forwarded to: Co-ordinator: Re-registration and Deferrals - rereg@mancosa.ac.za 6.3 REGISTRY AND DESPATCH The registry department captures all student information on the MANCOSA student database. In the event of changes to these details, as well as the issuing of student cards, queries must be forwarded to: Head: Registry and Despatch - registry@mancosa.ac.za All course material is despatched to students on completion of the required forms and payment of the required fee. Any queries regarding receipt of course material should be forwarded to: The Despatch Officer - dispatch@mancosa.ac.za 18

21 FINANCE All queries relating to student accounts should be forwarded to: Head: Finance - finance@mancosa.ac.za Fee Payment Where a student has sponsorship in respect of financial support from an employer or any other sponsoring body in respect of fees, the student must supply proof of sponsorship at enrolment. The student, however, is ultimately responsible for all and any payment owing to MANCOSA in the case of default by the sponsor. Students can pay fees in the following ways: - Cash at MANCOSA offices in Durban and Johannesburg - By Credit Card Payment (Appendix F must be completed and sent to the finance department in Durban). Please contact the MANCOSA: Finance department for further information in this regard. - Pay on website with Credit Card - Debit Order (Appendix G must be completed and sent to the finance department in Durban) Please contact the MANCOSA office if you require information on alternative payment methods Payment of Fees and Other Dues All fees and other payments owing to MANCOSA for tuition and/or services provided must be paid by the due dates as stipulated in the fee schedule. Penalties will be imposed on all overdue accounts at the discretion of MANCOSA. In addition, if students have outstanding financial obligations, MANCOSA may: withhold the results of assignments and examinations, withhold the release of certificates, Re - enrolment No student may re-enrol for another year or enrol for a different course whilst in debt to MANCOSA Payment Plans The payment of fees by instalment is available as long as the terms of such an arrangement are strictly adhered to. Students who fail to pay by the due date will automatically move to the next payment plan or have their accounts adjusted accordingly, thereby increasing their debt to MANCOSA Additional Fees/Charges The following additional fees are levied: Graduation Fees : R Assignment re-mark fee : R per re-mark Assignment re-submission fee : R per re-submission Exam script re-mark fee : R per re-mark Supplementary Examination : R per module Aegrotat Examination : R per module Graduating in absentia : R Transcript/ Certificate copies : R per copy A charge of R50.00 will be levied to cover administrative and bank charges in respect of: returned cheques and/or unpaid debit orders 19

22 Deferrals A deferral allows a student to postpone his/her academic studies as a result of unavoidable circumstances. The following rules apply to deferrals: (a) A student is allowed to defer only once during the course of his/her studies. (b) An application for deferral must reach MANCOSA before the due date of the second assignment of that particular semester. (c) Deferrals will only be granted on application on the prescribed form, which is available from the MANCOSA re-registration department. (d) A deferral will only be processed on receipt of the applicable fee. (e) The student must continue with the current fee payment plan as per the original registration. To process an application for deferral, please contact: The Co-ordinator: Re-registration and Deferrals: rereg@mancosa.ac.za The deferral fee is as follows: Deferral Fee (Including application fee): R Miscellaneous Costs Students requesting additional material not included in the course fee will be charged accordingly. These miscellaneous costs include photocopying, postage etc Cancellation of Registration/Fee Liability A student who intends cancelling his/her registration must: (a) Notify MANCOSA in writing, and (b) Complete a de-registration form (available from the MANCOSA office). The student will: be liable for a non-refundable registration fee of R if the cancellation occurs within 14 days of initial registration, or be liable for the payment of full fees if cancellation of registration occurs beyond 14 days of initial registration. Refunds will not be granted for deferred de-registrations/cancellations. To process an application for de-registration, please contact: The Co-ordinator: Re-registration and Deferrals: rereg@mancosa.ac.za Registration for Specific/Incomplete Modules Students who re-register for outstanding modules will be liable for the following: 1. A re-registration fee (Administration fee), and 2. The fee for the module Applications for re-registration for incomplete modules must be forwarded to: The Co-ordinator: Re-registration and Deferrals: rereg@mancosa.ac.za Payments The following information must accompany all payments made to MANCOSA. full name, student number and current course Proof of payment/transfer must be faxed to: MANCOSA: Finance If all details are not accurately provided to MANCOSA, your account may not be credited. 20

23 Account Details All payments should be made into ANY ONE of the following accounts: Bank Account Holder Branch Account Number Branch Code ABSA Bank MANCOSA (Pty) Ltd ABSA Corporate & Business Banking KZN OR Bank Account Holder Branch Account Number Branch Code Standard Bank MANCOSA (Pty Ltd) Overport City, Durban Foreign Payments It is important to note that foreign payments take at least 3 days to reflect in the MANCOSA accounts. The onus therefore lies with the student to ensure timeous payment of fees to avoid unnecessary problems. The SWIFT CODE for International payments are as follows: - ABSA Bank: ABSAZAJJ - STANDARD Bank: SBZAJJ 21

24 ASSESSMENTS Assignments All queries relating to the submission of assignments and the assessment thereof must be directed to the consultant responsible for your region. The contact details for each region can be found on page 35. Examinations All queries relating to examinations must be directed to: Head: Examinations Method of Assessment The assessment of this programme is by: (1) Assignments and (2) examinations. The contribution to the final mark is as follows: (1) Assignment - 50% and (2) Examination - 50% To pass a module a final combined mark of 50% is required. Entrance to the examination is dependent on the successful completion of assignments for each semester. A sub - minimum of 30% is required in each form of assessment Mitigating Circumstances General These are defined as unforeseeable or unavoidable serious disruptions of studies caused by circumstances beyond the students control. Students who wish to inform MANCOSA of mitigating circumstances must: - Submit this in writing at least 5 days after the scheduled examination and/or assignment submission date, etc. - Provide a full and complete account of dates on which the mitigating circumstances apply specifying assignments and/or examinations affected. - Ensure that application is accompanied by independent supporting evidence, e.g. medical certificates, etc. Medical certificates dated 1 week before or after the scheduled assignment date will not be accepted. Students may be asked to submit evidence of work already completed together with their appeals. Mitigating circumstances must be submitted on the correct form available from MANCOSA offices Complaints Procedure A complaint is considered to be an expression of a legitimate concern regarding some aspect of MANCOSA s provision and/or operation which needs a response. (a) Principles: Every attempt will be made to deal with student complaints as effectively as possible. Complaints will be treated in confidence and no victimisation or discrimination of any kind will apply to the complainant. Anonymous complaints against a person or persons will NOT be considered. 22

25 23 (b) Procedure Formal complaints must be made in writing and addressed to: - The Registrar: Academic, for assignments - The Head: Assessments, for examinations The complaint will be logged. The complaint will then be investigated and a final response will be provided to the complainant within 30 days. A proposal, remedy or redress will be included in the response. Where the complainant is not satisfied with either the investigation or the outcome, a further written complaint may be made to the Registrar: Academic. The Registrar: Academic will respond within 30 days following further investigation Appeals (Refer to Appendix D for the Appeal Form) Notes to Appeal Form: (a) Grounds for Appeal That there exist circumstances materially affecting the student's performance which were not known to the Board of Examiners when its decision was taken and which was not reasonably practicable for the student to make known to the Board beforehand. That there were procedural irregularities in the conduct of the examination and/or coursework assessment as to create a reasonable possibility that the result might have been different had they not occurred; That there is evidence of prejudice, bias or inadequate assessment on the part of one or more examiners or assessors. Note: No appeal will be considered which challenges academic judgement. (b) Time Limit The time limit within which you may appeal is 21 days from notification of the result. The time limit applies to notification received by the Registrar: Academic. Discussions within the Faculty do NOT count as notification of appeal. This form should be submitted to the Registrar: Academic without delay. It is your responsibility to ensure that MANCOSA has your correct contact details. It is your responsibility to check the mail at this address, or to contact the post office regarding any recorded delivery notification. (c) Additional Documents Any additional document should be the original, typed or word-processed, or hand-written legibly. Faxes and photocopies are not acceptable. (d) Reasons for Appeal You are advised to ensure that your reasons for appeal are as factual and specific as possible and fall within one or more of the categories in Note (a) above. (e) Evidence Your reasons for appeal must be supported by evidence. You must not make unsupported claims or make unsupported allegations against an individual or a group of staff. False information and defamatory allegations will be dealt with under the Code of Conduct. (f) Advice Advice is available from: - Registrar: Academic - Registrar: Administration, or student counselors 23

26 24 (g) Contact Details (i) Examinations (All students) - exams@mancosa.ac.za, and (ii) Academic /Assignment Administration Refer to contacts on page Plagiarism Students are assessed on the basis that work presented is their own as per the declaration on the assignment cover sheet. Cheating, plagiarism and fabrication of information are offences. Assignments, research proposals and dissertations will be scanned by TURNITIN plagiarism software to ensure that information used in work submitted is not plagiarised. The MANCOSA examination board will investigate allegations of such offences. If the allegation is proved correct, the outcome of the investigation could be one of the following: The student receives a warning and is allowed to proceed with the programme. Such assessments will be capped. The student fails the entire year or semester. The student is suspended or expelled from the programme Re-Registration for a Programme/Module Students failing a module at the first attempt or after writing the supplementary/aegrotat examination are required to re-register for the module. Only two further registrations for a module are permitted. Students who do not pass at the third attempt must submit a written motivation to continue with the programme Progression Upon successful completion of all modules in Year 1 of the programme, a student is eligible to proceed to Year 2 of the BCom (IT and Tech) programme. The student is required to register at each stage of the programme Award of Qualification The student will be awarded the BCom (Information and Technology) programme degree on completion of all modules (Year 1, 2 and 3). 24