Coventry University College. BSc (Hons) Information Technology Practitioner. Programme Specification

Transcription

1 Coventry University College BSc (Hons) Information Technology Practitioner Programme Specification Author : Emmanuel Hemmings September Intake 2014 v3.0 Date: June 2014 CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 1

2 BSc (Hons) Information Technology Practitioner Contents Contents... 2 Part 1: Programme Specification for... 4 BSc (Hons) Information Technology Practitioner Educational Aims of the Programme Intended Learning Outcomes* Programme Structure and Requirements, Levels, Modules, Credits and Awards Support for Students and their Learning Criteria for Admission Method for Evaluating and Enhancing the Quality and Standards of Teaching and Learning Regulation of Assessment Indicators of Quality and Standards Additional Information Mandatory and Optional Modules Practical Skills... 1 Part 2: Supporting Information... 4 CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 2

3 Introduction The Information Technology (IT) Practitioner Honours Degree is offered as part of the Information Technology curriculum portfolio at Coventry University College, which commenced delivery in September The portfolio includes a range of award levels including: HNC, HND and Honours across a number of IT specialisms. It is designed to prepare students for a successful career in IT practice through developing their knowledge, competences and practical skills. At the same time we will apply the academic rigour that is expected from an award at Coventry University. The course will lead both to academic awards and offer access to professional qualifications offered by IT companies, such as Microsoft and Adobe. Within business IT is ubiquitous and an integral part of determining an organisation s competitive position. Students will develop an understanding of the importance of developing approaches and strategies to IT including the organisational structures and infrastructures needed. This programme covers a wide range of IT subjects including e-commerce, database systems, social media and social networks and computer programming. The enhanced employability of Coventry University College graduates is critical to our success. This programme combines high-level practical experiences with coherent approaches to organisations use of IT to strengthen students employability. Employers seek candidates who can demonstrate managerial qualities and team playing skills. They also require graduates who understand change management processes and evolving and emerging technologies. Our approach to higher education includes students gaining professional qualifications; this is supported by evidence that graduates with such qualifications have an increased chance of finding a job in their choice of industry This programme will develop students so that they acquire transferable skills such as problem solving, team building, conflict management and working independently. Teaching will be delivered using a blend of face-to-face in class and online delivery supported by appropriate technology. This programme will support a range of students with a diverse range of abilities and backgrounds. The students will include those looking to progress academically and those wishing to support or broaden their work based skills and learning. By providing the students with this degree of flexibility in approaches to learning and teaching, it is expected that a significant number of students who previously may not have had access to higher education will be attracted to our offering. Coventry University College wishes to be known for its innovative and flexible approach to encouraging people from all backgrounds to higher education. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 3

4 Part 1: Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Information Technology Practitioner 1 Available Award(s) and Modes of Study Title of Award * BSC (Hons) Information Technology Practitioner Mode of attendance* Full Time programme with sandwich (SW) year 4 Years Full Time programme with year abroad (FY) year 4 Years Full Time programme 3 Years Part Time programme 4 Years UCAS Code FHEQ Level I901 Level 6 HND Information Technology Practitioner Full Time programme 2 Years Part Time programme3 Years 109I Level 5 HNC Information Technology Practitioner Full Time programme 1 Year Part Time programme 2 Years 009I Level 4 2 Awarding Institution/Body Coventry University. 3 Collaboration Coventry Academic Regulatory Framework. 4 Teaching Institution and Location of delivery* 5 Internal Approval/Review Dates 6 Programme Accredited by* 7 Accreditation Date and Duration 8 QAA Subject Benchmark Statement(s) and/or other external factors * Coventry University College, Armstrong Siddeley Building Date of approval*/latest review: 02/2012 Date for next review: 02/2018 The Subject benchmark Statements relevant for this programme are: Computing (2007) CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 4

5 9 Date of Programme Specification * 10 Programme Manager/Course Tutor * May 2014 Emmanuel Hemmings CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 5

6 11 Educational Aims of the Programme The educational aims of the programme are to provide: a) a broad ranging honours degree within the field of Information Technology which includes learning outcomes that are consistent with relevant professional qualifications b) a range of awards that are responsive to local and national employers needs c) a range of awards that facilitate access to higher education for a diverse range of students d) a range of awards that reflect current and emerging Information Technology thinking and practice, specifically in the areas of business e) a range of awards that develop students ability to apply academic theory and related concepts in the workplace f) graduates with a critical understanding of and ability to apply appropriate methodologies in specific Information Technology scenarios including: systems support and maintenance, software design, database planning and design, network development and social media and social networks g) graduates with academic skills in the synthesis and critical appraisal of Information Technology knowledge and research h) graduates with key practical and transferable skills to enhance their employability Honours level study with SW/FY gives students the opportunity to gain further insight into the industry or career they are seeking to follow. This enables them to contextualise the theoretical models and concepts discussed in the classroom in the work place. Furthermore, students undertaking this version of the degree increase their employment prospects by acquiring skills and gaining an understanding of what employers expect of graduates. 12 Intended Learning Outcomes* This programme satisfies the QAA benchmark statements (2007) and Coventry University s Code of Practice for Academic and Professional Skills Development. The QAA benchmarks have changed from earlier guidance (2000), and simplified the categories of expected learning for graduates to just Knowledge and Understanding (KU), and Cognitive skills (C). However, the Coventry University College internal code of practice for academic and professional skills development retains the terminology Practical Skills and Transferable Skills and so these are overlaid on top of the QAA Subject Benchmarks. Section 21 maps the intended learning outcomes as described in the next section to the programmes mandatory and option modules (as listed in section 20) Knowledge and Understanding Outcomes are described at award level to illustrate the development of students knowledge and understanding across the overall programme. Cognitive (thinking) Skills are also developed across the programme but these are not described at award level as students entering the programme will require support related to their individual skill level on entry, irrespective of award level. The above is also true of Practical and Transferable skills unless otherwise indicated. Section 22 shows the capabilities that students will be taught, given the opportunity to practise and will be assessed in. The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used on the programme to achieve these learning outcomes are identified in the next section. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 6

7 12.1 Knowledge and Understanding* On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: KU1 The fundamentals of Information Technology the fundamentals of Information Technology, including information systems, networks and software their importance, and how they function HNC: Students will be introduced to the approaches to IT taken by organisations. This includes understanding the needs of business to strengthen their competitive position using IT. HND: Students will critically examine the development life cycle, systems analysis and IT applications, including the object oriented programming. They will also examine the approaches taken by organisations to protect their IT and information assets. HONS: Students will develop a critical appreciation of organisations strategies in relation to the use of IT to enhance their competitive position. Students will appraise the impact of emerging technologies on how organizations engage with their client base. KU2 Designing and developing databases including development and manipulation of databases for existing business needs, maintaining and solving issues relating to databases, adapt and improvise SQL HNC: Students will develop an understanding of database planning including formal theories such as normalisation and entity-relationships. They will also understand how system analysts engage with clients in understanding the needs of the business. HND: Students will critically examine the principles of database modelling, relational database design and manipulation with SQL, database processing with transactions and procedures, object and distributed databases, data exchange and interoperability and emerging data models. HONS: Students will critically appraise database design practice in management information systems including cloud based technologies. KU3 Network development and maintenance developing and designing networks; including; security; logistics; maintenance; testing and integration HNC: Students will be introduced to theories relating to Network design and maintenance. They will examine how networks are built and maintain through practical experiences and theoretical research. Students employability will be enhanced by undertaking a professional qualification. HND: Students will critically examine the function and role of IT Security in the context of project management including essential management skills and knowledge required to plan, implement and evaluate the complete Systems Security Policy for a networked IT infrastructure.. KU4 Software design and development identifying the most appropriate software to undertake tasks within a business, including developing, designing and manipulating software to meet a specific aim HNC: Students will have a gentle introduction to programming concepts including the range of development tools. They will gain an understanding of programming life cycles and approaches. HND: Students will explore concepts and theories related to programming which provide solutions to a wide variety of business problems with the emphasis being laid on the whole of the software development process. KU5 Server development and resource management concepts and models related to server development. HONS: Students will critically evaluate tools for more advanced server management, such as development, testing, and general maintenance. They will also examine the range of servers needed for CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 7

8 differing business needs including, small business through to large businesses, websites and file storage, and mapping of systems. They will also understand the role of server administrator and the allocation of server based resources. KU6 e-commerce and social media and social networks - The Internet, Information Systems (IS) and their e-commerce applications and management and secure systems for ecommerce and online marketing. Hons: Students will critically examine the theories and concepts relating to organisations use of e- Commerce to transact business. They will also assess the impact of social media to promote messages using social networks. Students will appraise the structural changes following the emergence of e- Commerce in the areas of logistics, supply and demand and the environment (PEST).. The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are identified below. KU1 KU2 KU3 KU4 KU5 Teaching and Learning Teaching, tutorials, self directed learning, text and e-books, group work, case studies, computer programming Teaching, tutorials, self directed learning, text and e-books, case studies, computer programming Teaching, tutorials, self directed learning, text and e-books, group work, case studies, computer programming Teaching, tutorials, self directed learning, text and e-books, group work, case studies, computer programming Teaching, tutorials, Assessment Individual essay Individual report Individual presentation Practical assessment Artefact design Time constrained assessment Individual report Artefact design Individual essay Individual report Time constrained assessment Artefact design Individual report Individual presentation Artefact design Individual report Group artefact design CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 8

9 KU6 self directed learning, text and e-books, group work, case studies, computer programming Teaching, tutorials, self directed learning, text and e-books, group work, case studies, computer programming Individual report CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 9

10 12.2 Cognitive (thinking) Skills* On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to understand and apply: CS1 numeracy and quantitative skills including data analysis, interpretation and extrapolation. The effective use of communication and information technology for business applications CS2 problem solving, effective problem solving and decision making using appropriate skills including identifying, formulating and solving IT problems. The ability to create, evaluate and assess a range of options together with the capacity to apply ideas and knowledge to a range of situations CS3 effective performance, within a team environment, including leadership, team building, influencing and project management skills CS4 decision making skills, thinking through a decision and the implementation of IT solutions to address a business problem. CS5 the cognitive skills needed for implementing IT solutions and projects CS6 Demonstrate and apply, appropriate underpinning theory and conceptual approaches for Information Technology practitioners, from a range of disciplines CS7 Understand and critically evaluate a range of research methodologies from Computing Science and other subjects that are relevant to this discipline The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are identified below. CS1 CS7 Teaching and Learning Lectures, tutorials, self directed learning, textbooks, group work, case studies, software programmes, workshops, programming and individual project work. Assessment Individual and group coursework, which is vocationally relevant CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 10

11 12.3 Practical Skills* On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to: PS1 Communicate in verbal and non verbal forms relevant to a business setting, such as writing business reports PS2 Design, construct and maintain interactive software for application of specific needs PS3 Use different techniques and apply practical IT solutions to solve problems and aid decision making PS4 Demonstrate practical skills in system development, including IT security, ecommerce, manipulating information systems and testing PS5 Effectively build and deploy databases using an object oriented approach to design and development PS6 Select and apply appropriate methodologies for the evaluation of computer software PS7 Design and maintain servers for needs in a business setting; including identifying needs and setting up the server. PS8 Plan, implement and evaluate numerous systems for information technology in a business environment including system checking and testing and securing web-based business computer system The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are identified below. PS1 PS7 Teaching and Learning Lectures, tutorials, self directed learning, textbooks, group work, case studies, software programmes, workshops, programming and individual project work. Assessment Individual and group coursework, which is vocationally relevant CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 11

12 12.4 Transferable Skills * On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to: TS1 Solve problems relating to IT using judgement, techniques and as part of a group TS2 Demonstrate a range of employability skills that are transferable within a business context, such as communication skills, interpersonal skills, team working and being able to plan work effectively TS3 recommend a range of software solutions to support IT in business TS4 Deal with complex information system specifications, including documentation to support these systems in a focused manner. TS5 Use information technology to handle data, and assist with design and testing TS6 be able to demonstrate conflict management skills.students will be able to demonstrate and explain their approach to conflict management in particular when management teams or as a team player. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 12

13 13 Programme Structure and Requirements, Levels, Modules, Credits and Awards Modules within the programme, their status (whether mandatory or options), the levels at which they are studied, their credit value and pre/co requisites are identified below. Programme Structure Patterns and modes of attendance The HNC/HND/BSc (Hons) Degree in Information Technology Practitioner can be undertaken in various modes and patterns of delivery. Full Time mode is designed for students who wish to study 120 credits (4 modules) in one academic year, PT is anything less than this. The Information Technology Practitioner awards are offered in a range of delivery options. Students can attend in the week or on two evenings or all day on a Saturday. Weekday attendance is normally a four hour period either of a morning between 9am-1pm or in the afternoon between 2pm-6pm. The four hour length of teaching sessions allows for teaching to be presented in various ways including team teaching, group discussions, individual presentations, research and presentation, interactive teaching and guest lecturers. The aim of each lecture is to have a balance between students learning academic practical and professional skills. The course is taught in 6-week blocks and can be offered (subjects to numbers) 6 times each calendar year. 4 blocks will lead to a HNC (120 credits at level 4) 8 blocks will lead to an HND (240 credits at levels 4 and 5) 12 blocks will lead to an Honours degree (360 credits at levels 4, 5 and 6) Each one of the learning blocks (modules) is worth 30 credits; these will require the equivalent of 300 study hours. The modules run over a six week period and are taught consecutively, with assessments at the end of each block. If students wish to attend every day, they will receive 18 hours of teaching per week with two hour tutorials, totalling 120 hours. The remaining 180 hours will be self guided. Alternatively, students can choose to study two evenings each week or on a Saturday (9am 6pm). This involves 8 hours face to face teaching with 12 hours per week on-line. The teaching timetable will include online tutorials at times to suit the student cohort. Students will have the chance to talk to their tutor individually, or with the whole group in online discussion forums. Full Time Students can also attend via the Sandwich (SW) or Year Abroad (FY) option for one year between the second and third years of study. 60 credits at year 2 can be earned for successfully completing the professional placement or the study abroad year. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 13

14 Module Code Aspects of the course to meet professional body requirements: Three modules within the programme include units which map to various qualifications run by Microsoft and Adobe. It is however not a condition of academic credit as assessments for the professional qualification will be independent from those undertaken for the academic award. Innovative features Module Title Level 1 / FHEQ level 4 / HNC Credit Value Prerequisite 110IT IT in Business 30 None M Status Prof Qualification 111IT Information Systems 30 None M Microsoft Office Specialist in MS Access 112IT Managing Networks 30 None M Microsoft Technology Associate certificate in Networks 113IT Introduction to Software Design 30 None M Level 2 / FHEQ level 5 / HND 205IT Designing and Using Databases 30 None M 206IT Web Design and Project Management 30 None M 207IT Software Development 30 None M 208IT IT Security 30 None M Study Abroad Year/Professional Placement 201CUC Study Abroad Year 60 O 202CUC Professional Placement 60 O Level 3 / FHEQ level 6 / BSc (Hons) 307IT Business Computing 30 None M Server Development and 308IT 30 None M Microsoft maintenance Technology Associate Certificate in Servers 309IT Information Systems (Advanced) 30 None M 310IT Implementing E-Commerce Solutions 30 None M Adobe Associate Certificate in Dreamweaver The principle of the College to offer professional qualifications with academic credits wrapped around them is almost unique and does not exist in this form or to this extent in Coventry University or in the context of Coventry s closest competitors. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 14

15 The flexible delivery model allows students to access this level of academic and professional development whilst maintaining outside commitments, and is another example of innovation that will result in increased student numbers. Progression and Awards For an HNC Information Technology Practitioner award a student must have passed or been credited with all the mandatory modules at level 4 (120 credits). For an HND Information Technology Practitioner award a student must have passed or been credited with all the mandatory modules at level 4 and 5 (240 credits). For a FT Honours degree Information Technology Practitioner a student must have passed or been credited with all mandatory modules at level 4, 5 and 6 (360 credits). Only the mandatory modules at stage 2 and 3 will be counted towards the classification calculation. 201CUC and 202CUC (optional modules) do not count towards the award and are not calculation in the classification. The programme has three level of awards available to students: BSc (Hons) Information Technology Practitioner HND Information Technology Practitioner HNC Information Technology Practitioner To progress between stages students must have passed all mandatory modules (120 credits) for the previous stage. Professional Placement Or Study Year Abroad Students may seek to undertake a relevant professional placement (SW) /study abroad year (FY) between stages 2 and 3 of the degree, and we would encourage this for the depth of experience that it confers. Assistance with acquiring a relevant professional placement or Study Year Abroad is offered by the Employability Team, though no guarantee is made that such an opportunity will be found. Students undertaking a relevant professional placement will be registered on the module 202CUC, Professional Placement (60 credits) or on the module 201CUC, Study Abroad Year (60 credits) during their study year abroad. Students who successfully complete the assessment associated with the relevant modules, assessed at the end of the year, will receive 60 credits at level 2. Students who do not pass may continue to the final year and be awarded the full-time (FT) degree rather than the Sandwich (SW) or study year abroad (FY) degree. Students may undertake one of the following: a study abroad year under the Erasmus exchange scheme or another study abroad scheme for placements outside the EU; a professional placement under the Erasmus work placement scheme or a professional placement organised on their own initiative outside the EU. Alternatively they may choose to combine a period of study with a period on professional placement. To progress to the professional placement/ study abroad year a student will normally have accumulated 240 credits, 120 at level 1 and at least 90 of which will be at level 2. Students that need to complete a resit may be eligible to progress to their placement/year abroad year and complete their resit module whilst on professional placement/study abroad year. Students that need to complete a repeat may be eligible to progress to their placement/year abroad and complete their repeat module in their fourth year of study, in block 5 (four final year modules will be studied in blocks 1 4). CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 15

16 14 Support for Students and their Learning Students will be provided with a structured induction programme, which will incorporate the following elements: Registration Experience of the teaching model Tour of college facilities Director s Welcome Academic introduction to their specific course Meeting key delivery staff Discussion on assessment and progression Programme administration and management Finances including payment options and Student Finance England advice Educational Technologies, including a demonstration of the Virtual Learning Environment Student support Clubs and Societies Student representatives; how to become a student rep Social time to aid cohort bonding Reasonable adjustments will be made to the teaching, learning, assessment and support of the course(s) to maximise accessibility to students with disabilities. During teaching blocks students will also have e-direct support as follows: direct feedback to students. This is a major part of the teaching process and will take forms such as feedback on assignments, comments and moderation to groups and individuals in discussion forums, or input into messaging discussions running of set clinics or office hours for students to discuss any issue students will also be able to tutorial staff given the nature of this programme, students will be able to access the latest technology to support their learning, as well as the technology required for the course, including online learning Students will be able to access further information and support via: student and course handbooks and module guides for each module online support via the programme and module webs a course tutor to act as a point of contact computing and library resources on campus peer support the relevant Programme Area Leader student welfare services provided by staff with expertise in supporting diverse student needs. Students will receive a welcome with details on how to access course material and access to Moodle will be monitored. The initial welcome and induction is run to ensure students can access, understand and use the VLE site. If students are unable to attend a face to face induction then an online induction will be provided, with follow up s, phone and /or video calls as necessary. Incorporated in all CUC programmes are weekly, 2 hour, small group tutorials. These typically have up to 10 students in each group and are used to support both subject specific and generic learning. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 16

17 An employability coordinator will support students in identifying and acquiring a suitable professional placement. In professional placement, students will be visited by a professional placement tutor to support them during their time in industry. All student support mechanisms will be compliant with the University s policies on Equality and Diversity. 15 Criteria for Admission Coventry University College will work with the Admissions Services within Coventry University to ensure that all full-time and part-time applications are managed according to the nationally agreed framework and appropriate standards. The minimum entry requirements to these programmes are that candidates should normally possess one of the following: A minimum of 160 UCAS tariff points, including two full A levels or equivalent for a HNC A minimum of 200 UCAS tariff points, including two full A levels or equivalent for a HND A minimum of 260 UCAS tariff points, including two full A levels or equivalent for a BSc (Hons) Degree BTEC National Certificate or Diploma (160/200/260 points) in a relevant subject, including maths and english performance equivalent to grade C GCSE Appropriate Foundation/Access qualification where the standard achieved is deemed equivalent to the above Candidates will normally be expected to have passed maths and English language GCSE with minimum grade C, or possess an equivalent qualification. Non-native English speakers will normally require an IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 550/213 Coventry University College will also review applicants with non standard entry requirements including those with professional work experience and direct entry applicants. Accreditation for prior learning is in accordance with Coventry University College s Academic Regulations. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 17

18 16 Method for Evaluating and Enhancing the Quality and Standards of Teaching and Learning The Programme has been developed by the Coventry University College team and will be managed by the Coventry University College Academic Committee. The Joint Assessment Board (JAB) for the Information Technology Practitioner awards is responsible for considering the progress of all students and making awards in accordance with the University and programme-specific regulations. The assurance of the quality of modules is the responsibility of the Academic Committee. External Examiners report at the end of each module and annually on the overall programme and their views are considered as part of the quality monitoring process. Student views are also sought through module and programme evaluation questionnaires. All programmes are subject to a major review involving subject experts external to the University and College normally on a five or six year cycle. At these reviews the views of current and former students, and partners from private, public and the third sectors are sought where appropriate. 17 Regulation of Assessment University policy requires the internal moderation of all assessments. External Examiners are appointed for all named University awards. The role of the External Examiner at module level is to ensure that academic standards are in line with national norms for the subject. External Examiners undertake the moderation of examination papers and assessment tasks, and view representative samples of work for the modules for which they have responsibility. At programme level, External Examiners help to ensure fairness in the consideration of student progression and awards. They have the right to comment on all aspects of the assessment system and participate as full members of the assessment boards. The Pass mark for all modules is 40%. This overall module mark may comprise more than one component (e.g. coursework and exam). The individual module descriptors give the precise pass criteria and the weighting of the component marks that contribute to the overall module mark. On Undergraduate programmes, the Honours classification boundaries for First Class, Upper Second Class, Lower Second Class and Third Class are 70%, 60%, 50% and 40% respectively. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 18

19 18 Indicators of Quality and Standards The following are key indicators of quality and standards: The programme has been designed in accordance with the QAA benchmark statements for Computing (2007) and modules have been mapped to the certificate and diploma curriculum from the British Computing Society. In addition: programme area leaders, who are highly experienced in curriculum design, were responsible for the development of the programme and modules Programme area leaders will be responsible for the management of on-going production of teaching and learning materials and tools for assessment, in compliance with the specification and regulations. The report of QAA s Institutional Audit undertaken in November 2008 confirmed that Confidence can be placed in the soundness of the institutions current and likely future management of the academic standards of its awards Confidence can be placed in the soundness of the institutions current and likely future management of the quality of the learning opportunities. External examiners have consistently praised the delivery, operation and results of courses in the Faculty, and the programmes presented here build on these existing strengths. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 19

20 19 Additional Information Key sources of information about the course and student support can be found in Coventry University College Student Handbook Module Guides Study Support information is accessible from student services home page 20 Mandatory and Optional Modules 110IT IT in Business Mandatory 111IT Information Systems Mandatory 112IT Managing Networks Mandatory 113IT Introduction to Software Design Mandatory 205IT Designing and Using Databases Mandatory 206IT Web Design and Project Management Mandatory 207IT Software Development Mandatory 208IT IT Security Mandatory 307IT Business Computing Mandatory 308IT Server Development and maintenance Mandatory 309IT Information Systems (Advanced) Mandatory 310IT Implementing E-Commerce Solutions Mandatory 201CUC Study Abroad Year Optional 202CUC Professional Placement Optional Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content, and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found in the student module guide(s) and the course handbook. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed by the University and may be verified by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education. CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 20

21 Intended Learning Outcomes Knowledge and Understanding Cognitive (Thinking) Skills Practical Skills Transferable Skills Module codes KU1 KU2 KU3 KU4 KU5 KU6 CS1 CS2 CS3 CS4 CS5 CS6 CS7 PS1 PS2 PS3 PS4 PS5 PS6 PS7 PS8 TS1 TS2 TS3 TS4 TS5 TS6 110IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X 111IT X X X X X X X X X X X X 112IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X 113IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 205IT X X X X X X X X X X X X 206IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X 207IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 207IT X X X X X X X X X X X X 307IT X X X X X X X X X X X 308IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 309IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 310IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X X CUC Programme Specification September 2014 intake 1

22 22 Capabilities (Skills) Map Module codes Learning to Learn Working with others Problem Solving and Innovation Numeracy IT and Online Learning Communication Career Management Information Management Personal Development Planning T P A T P A T P A T P A T P A T P A T P A T P A T P A 110IT X X X X X X 111IT X X X X X X 112IT X X X 113IT X X X 205IT X X X X X X X X X 206IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 207IT X X X 208IT X X X X X X X X X 307IT X X X X X X 308IT X X X 309IT X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 310IT X X X X X X Key: T=Taught, P=Practiced, A=Assessed 2

23 The Code of Practice for Academic and Professional Skills Development requires that each of the capabilities be demonstrated at least once during the programme. Capability Outlines (from the Code of Practice for Academic and Skills Development) Learning to Learn Students should be ready to accept responsibility for their own independent learning. They should also be able to reflect on their learning and appraise their capabilities and achievements. Students should also be able to identify their individual needs for effective learning. Working with Others Students should be able to work effectively as part of a group, and respect the dignity, rights and needs of others. Problem Solving and Innovation Students should be able to use problem-solving skills in a variety of practical situations. They should be able to demonstrate creativity, flexibility, perception, decisiveness, confidence and an awareness of values. Numeracy Students should be able to interpret, analyse and present numerical data. IT and Online Learning Students should be able to use computer-based systems for learning, communicating, collaborating with peers and tutors, and working with data. Communication Students should be able to communicate effectively in appropriate forms in a wide variety of situations. Career Management Students should appreciate the values, culture, structure and process of work organisations relevant to their area of study. Students should also appropriately match their experience and academic achievements to employer expectations. Information Management Students should be able to carry out research relevant to their field of study by retrieving and using information drawn from a variety of resources. Personal Development Planning Students should be able to demonstrate self-awareness, set personal goals and record achievement. 3

24 Part 2: Supporting Information for BSc (Hons) Information Technology Practitioner 1 Relationship to the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, Subject Benchmark statements and Professional/Statutory Body requirements The intended learning outcomes for the Programme have been designed to ensure the QAA Benchmark Statements for Computing (2007) of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland have been addressed. In the design process close attention was also paid to other Professional Bodies who offer qualifications within this field, and fit has been achieved with these courses as far as possible. Close attention have been paid to the above outcomes when drawing together the Learning Outcomes for the programme, to ensure a high quality experience for the student and collaboration wherever possible, which can also lead on to further qualifications. 2 Teaching and Learning Strategy Coventry University College is committed to producing high quality teaching and learning and therefore has introduced a highly responsive approach to the delivery and education. The College provides both academic and professional qualifications to meet the learning aspirations of a wide range of people from the community it serves. It is essential therefore that its courses are current and relevant and it provides a variety of teaching and assessment strategies to meet the learning needs and styles of its students. All of the undergraduate provision of the Coventry University College follows a similar pattern of delivery. Each award is delivered over four 30 credit modules. Each module is assessed so that individual modules can be credited, this allows students to see progress and have such progress formally recognised. Since each module is delivered in a block of study, the course teams are able to utilise a range of teaching and learning strategies thereby responding to the individual learning needs represented in the student body. Further flexibility is introduced through the use of high quality learning technologies which provide study opportunities that mirror the class based delivery. Full time students, therefore, can pre-read, revise and supplement their learning through use of the College s Virtual Learning Environment. Students following a blended learning pathway will have both face to face teaching and on-line study. This will be further enhanced through on-line learning tutorials which will remedy any deficit in understanding and support student success. High quality teaching and learning is a core principle for the College. Clear expectations on the teaching and tutorial staff will be mediated through an intensive induction programme, a clear articulation of the standards of delivery of teaching and learning expected and regular review of teaching performance through student evaluation, continuous professional development and a regime of observed teaching. Combined, this approach will lead to the formation of a community of practice for College academic staff, where experimentation and innovation is encouraged. The intensity of the delivery pattern will allow students to make rapid progress through to successful achievement. High levels of contact time for full time students through face to face teaching in small groups along with tutorial sessions in groups of only five students enable student progress to be monitored and additional support provided as necessary. Attendance is mandatory and will be closely monitored to ensure students do not fall behind or worse still drop out. Blended students following a mixed diet of face to face and on-line learning will also be monitored closely. On-line tutorial support will be provided to ensure engagement. 4

25 3 Assessment Strategy Assessment at CUC has been designed not only to assess students achievement in meeting the learning outcomes, but to also prepare students for the work place, and support the professional development of students already in work. This is through keeping informed and up to date on current research to ensure programmes reflect current academic and business thinking, taking a multi-cultural approach to the programme as the world in which students will work becomes even more connected, and using digital skills through the courses to ensure students are well equipped to enter work. This programme will support students through these three main areas through teaching, in their discussions and workshops and through their assessments. This programme by its very nature will pull on these three aspects within its modules. Students will receive support from their academic and support staff, who will be able to support students in their knowledge and also their transferable skills, which is highly important within this programme. For example communication, problem solving and group working. Each module will be assessed, with students receiving high quality feedback to their work and their overall progress. Formative Assessment is also a vital component of the student experience at CUC. It may take a variety of forms which can be led by the student themselves, their peers of the academic and support staff. 4 Programme/Course Management The Programme will be managed by the relevant CUC Programme Area Leader to oversee the effective delivery and assessment of the programme and manage and ensure compliance with the University s annual quality monitoring and enhancement process. Programme Area Leader will be responsible for the following: - leadership and co-ordination of the module team - ensuring the module material is prepared and accessible to staff and students - preparation of module guides - allocation of students to tutorial groups - record keeping and monitoring of student progress - assessment and re-assessment 5 Entry Requirements and Selection Procedures The programme is subject to the College s admission procedures and access policies. Coventry University College will work with the Admissions Services within Coventry University to ensure that all full-time and part-time applications are managed according to the nationally agreed framework and appropriate standards. The minimum entry requirements to these programmes are that candidates should normally possess one of the following: A minimum of160 UCAS tariff points, including two full A levels or equivalent for a HNC 5

26 A minimum of 200 UCAS tariff points, including two full A levels or equivalent for a HND A minimum of 260 UCAS tariff points, including two full A levels or equivalent for a BA (Hons) Degree BTEC National Certificate or Diploma (160/200/260 points) in a relevant subject, including Maths and English performance equivalent to grade C GCSE Appropriate Foundation/Access qualification where the standard achieved is deemed equivalent to the above Candidates will normally be expected to have passed maths and English language GCSE with minimum grade C, or possess an equivalent qualification. Non-native English speakers will normally require an IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 550/213 Coventry University College will also review applicants with non-standard entry requirements including those with professional work experience. Accreditation for prior learning is in accordance with Coventry University College s Academic Regulations. All courses shall normally provide for entry at various levels with the maximum valid credit being given for appropriate prior knowledge and skills and previous learning, subject to the College s general requirements. However, for each award there is a minimum requirement for which neither general nor specific credit shall be given. Credit shall not be given for more than two-thirds of an overall programme. Two categories of credit are recognised: a) General Credit This is a system of credit-rating whereby judgements can be expressed as credit points at various levels related to the standards of different academic awards, providing a broad indication of the appropriate amount of credit that might be allowed on the basis of the qualifications and other learning experiences. b) Specific Credit This is the credit given to an individual person in the context of a particular module or course; it may be equal to or less than the general credit to which it relates. In recognising the education, training and experience gained in employment and in other Institutions of learning for the purposes of academic credit towards awards the following shall apply: a) general credit shall be assigned in terms of a number of credit points at one or more levels b) any student who has been awarded general credit shall be required to apply to convert that to the specific credit available for the College course concerned. 6

27 Although admissions tutors shall seek to accredit prior learning, credit will not be given for more than two thirds of any programme. A student who, whilst enrolled on a course at the College, is required or permitted to take other supporting modules not directly contributing to that course (eg as part of an induction or research programme) may not use those modules towards a concurrent or retrospective eligibility for another award. This does not preclude the student from using these modules subsequently for accreditation of prior learning (APL) as part of an application to another course. 6 Compliance with the University s Academic Regulations and current legislation Coventry University College s Academic Regulations have been developed by Coventry University s Registrar and Secretary and Coventry University College s Registry and Admissions Manager and approved by Coventry University s Academic Board. 7