Module BIC-0007:
Computing 2

Module Facts

Run by Marketing: Bangor International College

10 Credits or 5 ECTS Credits

Semester 1 & 2

Organiser: Mrs Laura McKenzie

Overall aims and purpose

1) To provide students with a practical introduction to the technology and terminology around tabular data and construction and use of a database 2) To support students in developing a database for a given situation, for example, a simulated business using current standards and appropriate software 3) To enable students to use a database to identify and solve problems within their simulated situation 4) To provide students with a more advanced understanding of data processing and the construction and uses of databases to prepare them for level 4 and beyond on their Computing degree

Course content

This module recognises that students will come onto the programme with a wide range of experience with computers and in computer programming. The syllabus aims to provide students with an appreciation of the importance of using a database within a real-life situation through the simulation of a business and to support them in constructing a database and then making use of it to identify and solve problems within the context of the simulated business.
The module develops transferable skills which will be of help to the students when they progress onto level 4 of their Computing degree. Key topics Key concepts and skills in the use of tabular data an d databases An introduction to the underlying technologies Construction and interpretation of tabular data on paper Accessing data held in a small database Concept of key data types Extending tables in an existing database Development of a system appropriate to the small, simulated business Use of the database to respond to queries, solve problems and support the information flow within the simulated business to aid its business operations and, in particular, its reporting functions

Assessment Criteria

excellent

(Grade A)

Student has performed effectively in all aspects of the module and has demonstrated a high level of suitability for and can proceed with confidence to undergraduate degree studies.

threshold

(Grade D)

Student has coped sufficiently well with some aspects of the module to achieve the minimum level of pass to allow progression onto an undergraduate degree programme.

good

(Grade B)

Student has demonstrated sound, basic knowledge and practical techniques in tackling many of the topics and tasks covered in the module and so shown clear suitability for undergraduate degree studies.

Learning outcomes

  1. Demonstrate the ability to work individually and in groups to construct and use a database in a simulated business situation

  2. Extend tables of data in an existing database to cater for additional needs and requirements

  3. Solve problem using a database

  4. Respond to a range of queries and provide additional information required within the simulated business

  5. Use and interpret tabular data presented both on paper and in an existing database

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
CLASS TEST Class Test 1

This interim test is intended to check on their early understanding of the compilation of tabular data on paper and in a database before proceeding to their major task. Answer key.

 20
COURSEWORK Coursework

The major task construction and use of a database related to the activities, problems and requirements of a simulated business. Specific and task relevant assessment criteria.

 80

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
Private study

Background reading and preparation for assessments.

 50
Laboratory

Computer Laboratory based work – 40 hours (4 hours a week over a 10-week term)

 40
Seminar

Seminar – style classes – 10 hours (1 hour per week over a 10 week term)

 10

Transferable skills

  • Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
  • Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
  • Exploring - Able to investigate, research and consider alternatives
  • Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information
  • Teamwork - Able to constructively cooperate with others on a common task, and/or be part of a day-to-day working team

Subject specific skills

  • Demonstrate knowledge and use of useful software packages
  • Demonstrate knowledge and use of useful software packages
  • Demonstrate the ability to undertake practical work, on computers and the capability to work in a laboratory collecting, organising and presenting data using appropriate techniques
  1. Facility with appropriate computer applications and software
  2. Managing a project (within the simulated company)
  3. Database construction
  4. Solving problems/providing consolidated information
  5. Collaborative working in practical situations
  6. Test preparation and effective presentation of final coursework element

Resources

Resource implications for students

Core Text book

Reading list

Reeves, B (2015) AQA A Level Computer Science Hodder Education

Heathcote, PM and Heathcote RSU (2016) AQA AS Computer Science 2nd edition Payne-Galway (PG Online)

Courses including this module

Compulsory in courses: