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CIT Programs

BTEC HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN BUSINESS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Introduction:

The Higher National Diploma in Business Information Technology is a two-year programme. It is accredited by the Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC) of the United Kingdom and is an internationally recognized vocational qualification which is the bench mark for higher technician education. It consists of eighteen modules of study which will prepare the trainees for work in an environment where there is a considerable use of business and information technology skills. This programme introduces participants to new areas of knowledge and skills required in today’s ever-changing business environments. The programme includes a substantial practical element in which industry standard hardware and software will be widely used. There is a greater emphasis on applied analytical and conceptual skills that are developed in authentic work-related situations and in genuine investigative project work. These high order skills and knowledge may be applied to the industry or practice in which the HND graduate will work.

Programme Aims

This programme of study has the following aims:-

Programme Structure

The Higher National qualifications consist of standard unit templates which include clearly defined outcomes and content and robust assessment criteria ensuring standards, credibility and rigour.

At HND1 level the emphasis is on the application of knowledge, skills and understanding; use of conventions in the field of study; use of analytical and selection and organisation of information.

At HND2 level the emphasis is on application and evaluation of contrasting ideas, principles, theories and practices; greater specialism in the field by study; and an increasing independence in systematic enquiry and analysis.

The programme consists of eighteen modules which are studied on a two-year part-time basis. The tables show the weekly teaching hours per semester for the various modules.

Year 1

Year 2

Module Descriptions:
Computer Platforms

This unit is aimed at practitioners who need sufficient knowledge of architecture to make decisions on the selection/specification of systems and to use computer hardware and software effectively. Trainees will be shown how to use operating systems to create their own operating environment and participate in its development. Many practitioners communicate with specialist technical support staff during the specification and planning of systems implementation. This unit aims to give such practitioners the confidence to communicate with technical specialists and to validate their recommendations.

It is expected that centers will use current personal computer and networking resources. Trainees should be encouraged to read current journals to investigate and evaluate new hardware and software developments.

Systems Analysis

This unit will give trainees the ability to compare the different lifecycle models. It will provide the foundation of systems analysis and design by covering requirements analysis for both commercial and technical applications. It will also introduce the data and functional modeling techniques which trainees can be expected to use. The unit provides the opportunity for trainees to implement the data model using a proprietary database.

Software Constructs and Tools

The aim of this unit is to provide trainees with an awareness of a wide range of problems within computing, the way that problems and solutions can be modeled and techniques to solve them. They will be introduced to the concept of a business model and will be shown how to use spreadsheets to model current and future situations. The unit also provides trainees with the opportunity to perform some coding: albeit within the framework of appropriate mechanisms. Although a third-generation programming language is the most appropriate, centers could consider spreadsheets, databases, 4GLs or knowledge-based expert systems as alternatives.

Computing Solutions

Organizations have always depended on information to ensure success. Over the years organizations have changed their information systems from dealing purely with data processing to strategic and decision support. Managers need information to plan successfully in the short, medium and long term. It is also recognized nowadays that information is required at all levels in an organization and that information itself can have many sources. The importance of valid information in gaining competitive advantage needs to be stressed.

Trainees will gain an understanding of the ways in which data can be processed and the applications that support organizations. They will also be asked to evaluate the capacity of an information system to satisfy the needs of the user.
Business Information Technology Implementation Project

The aim of this unit is to help trainee's integrate the skills and knowledge they have acquired during the course to produce a computer-based solution to a realistic commercial problem.

This is a major piece of work that trainees should demonstrate their performance expected of them at a Higher National level.

The problem may be work-based, institute-based or a trainee interest, but it must be developed in accordance with the unit's frameworks and constraints.

This will develop the ability to produce an acceptable and viable solution to an agreed specification within a defined timescale and constraints.

Multimedia and Internet Development

The aim of this unit is to develop the trainee's practical ability to communicate and interact using current Internet and multimedia tools and to allow trainees to produce innovative multimedia solutions for a range of commercial needs.

This area is rapidly developing and skills that appear advanced today may well be commonplace in a few years time. In order to ensure the unit remains relevant, no specific products are included in the content but many products exist, as discussed in the guidance. For the same reason one of the outcomes remains general and supported by several current acceptable options. It is expected that centers can use this flexibility both to make use of their current resources and keep the unit up to date with developments in the future.

Business Applications Development

Enterprises world-wide invest millions in computer-based business systems and developers are confronted by an ever-increasing array of software development tools. Trainees need an awareness of the choices available and they must be confident in selecting of appropriate software development tools and solutions. The purpose of this unit is to build confidence in these skills.

Additionally trainees need practical development skills in building business applications. The range of software options includes conventional programming languages, 4GLs and database products, authorware/web development packages, macro programming within generic packages, integrated office suites and program generators. This unit provides an opportunity for trainees to convert requirements specification into a business solution using one (or more) application development tools.

Data Analysis and Database Design

An understanding of databases is fundamental to the development of any significant information system. Database systems are predominant in the world of IT and continue to
demand more complex data structures as applications get increasingly sophisticated. The aim of this unit is to provide an essential knowledge of database systems including basic design principles, practical implementation and development skills for both system designer and software engineer.

The importance of structured query languages should be stressed, and once created, databases will be used or demonstrated for a variety of tasks including querying and report writing.

Quality Management Principles

The unit will enable trainees to learn about quality assurance through the maintenance of an existing computer system. It will deal with the quality assurance and professional issues related to computer systems implementation and management.

It will be left to centers to select an appropriate system development method as a vehicle to cover the units requirements. If the unit is delivered within a course which contains software development units then a development method relevant to the software tools used is suggested.

Communication Technology

Communications systems including networks, telecommunications and digital broadcasting are pivotal to the development of modern information and transaction systems. Managers need to be involved in specifying and evaluating such systems.

This unit will provide the required knowledge to specify and manage communication networks in the light of the needs of the organization. It will also provide skills which will enable the practitioner to make informed decisions on communication strategies in the workplace.

Advanced Business Information Technology Project

This unit which has a value of 2 will be a significant piece of work designed to integrate H2 units. Knowledge and skills developed throughout the course are drawn on to deliver practical and realistic solutions to business-related problems.

Trainees are expected to analyse a business problem, understand its context, and plan and design a suitable solution. The project should be chosen by the trainee, under guidance from the center to establish an appropriate level of study.

Networking

The importance of networked solutions in the business world grows year on year. The increasingly sophisticated technologies and widening user base means a fundamental understanding of networks is essential for many. The aim of this unit is to provide a rigorous introduction to networks, and practical experience in installing users and software on a network.

This unit will clarify the issues associated with network use and how this has developed. It will identify the architectural concepts behind networking and help develop the preliminary skills necessary to install and manage networks.

Database Management System

The aim of this unit is to provide the application developer with essential knowledge of database management system software. Content will include the evolution of DBMS technology, database adminstrative functions and controls within a multi-user environment.

Trainees are encouraged to take up professional certification programmes like the Oracle Certified Associate (1Z0-007 & 1Z0-031) and the Microsoft certified professional qualifications.

Visual Programming

Trainees will increasingly use visually based operating systems such as Windows XP and will need to develop code which uses similar features and techniques.

The aim of this unit is to enable trainees to develop visual applications, become familiar with a visual development environment and use its facilities to build the applications.

Web Site Management

This unit enables students to create and manage web-based applications. The focus is on the server and the mechanisms to link web pages to databases. The unit also allows trainees to deal with issues relating to intranet. Trainees are required to build a portfolio of documentation of the web-site applications they produce.

Management Science

The unit is designed to enable trainees to investigate operational research procedures in management and information technology. By building on mathematical skills and programming ability trainees will evaluate produce useful software and techniques they use.

The unit covers techniques in computer simulations and operational research. Successful trainees will be able to analyses the value of these techniques in realistic situations.

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BTEC NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN COMPUTER STUDIES
Introduction

The National Diploma in Computer Studies is a two-year full time programme. It prepares the trainees for work in an environment where there is a substantial use of computers. The environment may be technically or commercially orientated. National Diploma graduates will be able to adapt and customise software packages to a given environment. They will be able to make significant contributions to the development of applications software systems and will be able to act effectively as part of a development team. They will be trained to work in a structured development environment. National Diploma graduates will be knowledgeable about computer hardware software and computer networks. They will be able to set up a hardware system and install the commonly used software packages. They will be able to provide guidance for non-specialist staff who use packages. The programme of study will include a substantial practical element in which industry standard hardware and software will be widely used. A major project will be undertaken by every trainee.

Programme Aims:

This programme of study has the following aims:


  • to provide trainees with the knowledge and skills to become immediately effective as technicians in computer related occupations;
  • to give trainees a quality qualification which will allow them to proceed to further studies and training;
  • to make trainees aware of the impact of the use of computer based systems and to help them develop a flexible response to the changing demands of business, industry and society;
  • to provide trainees with the fundamental knowledge necessary to allow them to appreciate future developments in computing and Information Technology;
  • to provide a fundamental knowledge of computer hardware and software;
  • to provide an introduction to business organisations, functions and systems in the context of computer applications;
  • to provide the mathematical skills necessary for the use of computers in the representation and interpretation of data.
Programme Structure

The two year program is offered in two tracks, Business ICT track and Netwoking and ICT supprot. The first year is a common year for the two tracks and the second year will be the track specialization year.

Year 1 (common for the two tracks)
  • English as a Foreign Language
  • Computational Methods
  • Industry & Society
  • Software Applications
  • Communication Technology
  • Introduction to Software Development
  • Business Information Systems
  • Computer Systems
  • Computer Hardware
  • Associated Workshops
Year 2 (Business ICT track)
  • Language and Communication
  • Small Business Start-up
  • Project
  • Data Analysis & Design
  • Application Software Development
  • Computerized Accounting
  • Website Development
  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • System Specification and Justification
  • Associated Workshops
Module Descriptions
Computational Methods

This unit aims to consolidate prior mathematical knowledge and also enrich this by introducing a higher level of mathematical learning. This higher level of learning will provide trainees with a foundation to apply their mathematical skills to areas of computing and other business domains.
This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in application of number and problem solving.

Software Applications

The aim of this unit is to familiarise trainees with the most commonly-used software applications in work places today and enable them to achieve a measure of proficiency in each. Selected applications will be those used to store, manipulate, present and process data in order to support business processes. Data can be textual, numeric or graphical and when used in a business function is often a combination of two or all three of these types. It is recognised that these applications are supplied in office. suites produced by different software companies e.g Microsoft. This unit makes no reference to any particular suite but it is recommended that all applications used to deliver the unit be selected from the same suite. It presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in application of number, communication and information technology.

Communications Technology

The widespread development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has led to industry and commerce taking full advantage of vastly improved communication opportunities. This unit considers the way in which computers are connected to provide efficient data communication, and how computer networks have developed to become established features of most businesses. The unit also aims to give trainees a thorough appreciation of the importance of the internet and the worldwide web. The unit provides necessary background required for trainees studying for any of the pathways within the National Diploma. It also provides the necessary underpinning knowledge for further study within the Networking and ICT Support pathway. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication and information technology.

Introduction to Software Development

The aim of this unit is to introduce trainees to the basic concepts of program design and implementation using a suitable high level language. The emphasis is on practical activities, problem solving and the production of good quality documentation. The unit provides trainees with the analytical skills necessary to ensure they fully understand a problem before attempting to devise a solution. It gives trainees the opportunity to use design techniques and processes to find solutions to given problems. The unit allows trainees to develop simple program applications using a variety of approaches. In addition the unit introduces the trainees to the concepts of system testing helping them to ensure their programs produce the desired logical results, and work without crashing. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in application of number, communication, information technology, improving own learning and performance and working with others.

Business Information Systems

Business information systems are integral to most organisations as they provide the basis for formal planning in areas of strategy and planning, decision making and resourcing. The aim of this unit is to help trainees gain an understanding of the structure of organizations and how information flows around and is controlled and used within them. Trainees will also gain an understanding of the need for health, safety and security measures in the workplace. This unit also provides foundation issues which are explored in other units within this qualification. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication.

Computer Systems

This unit outlines the fundamental way in which a computer works, starting with simple logic and progressing to a simple model of a microprocessor. This is followed by an overview of computer hardware and peripherals to enable trainees to understand the way in which computer systems are constructed and how they work. The unit also covers a basic knowledge of the purpose of operating systems, some elementary operating system processes and elementary low-level programming. The unit is intended as an introduction to a broad range of important computing concepts, and consequently it is not necessary to deliver the content in great depth. Other units are intended to explore some of the topics in this unit in much greater depth. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in application of number and communication.

Computer Hardware

This unit outlines the basic hardware of a computer. The unit gives trainees the ability and confidence to build and upgrade PCs and to rectify simple faults. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication, information technology, improving own learning and performance and working with others.

Language and Communications

The aim of this unit is to develop trainees communication skills. The unit covers written, oral, aural, research and presentation skills. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication, information technology, improving own learning and performance, problem solving and working with others.

Business IT Project

This unit is designed to guide trainees through the process of planning and implementing an information technology project. The unit will provide the basics of project management in terms of the tools and techniques used and the strategies and modelling employed in project initiation. This unit will also involve the examination of an IT problem for which a project- based solution can be given.

This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication, information technology and working with others.

Data Analysis & Design

This unit links with the core units Introduction to Software Development (Unit 4), Business Information Systems (Unit 5) and Computational Methods (Unit 2), which refer to data processing and business systems.
The overall aim of this unit is to provide trainees with knowledge of the importance of electronic data in commerce, industry and the public services. The unit’s main focus is to enable trainees to design databases using a variety of software tools and methods, including relational and flat-file data models.

It is important to stress the importance of structured query languages (SQL); once created, databases will be used to demonstrate relationships and other rules. Such as Normalization, Structured System Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM), and Query by Example (QBE).

Applications Software Development

There is a wide range of applications available which are capable of effective data processing, for example databases, spreadsheets, word processors and presentation applications. These can be enhanced using programming facilities to increase the processing capabilities and adapt the user interface to provide a professional, customised company standard. This unit is an introduction to the design and build of a system using either one application or the programming facilities available within it; or alternatively a visual programming language that is capable of providing the interface and programming facilities specified in the content.

Computerized Accounting

This module will give the trainees a basic understanding of accounting concepts, conventions, procedures and systems, which are necessary for commercial software development. In order to develop these skills the trainee should:

  • Use accounting concepts and conventions
  • Use the double-entry system of book-keeping
  • Prepare financial statements
  • Understand the flow of accounting information and the role of business documents
  • Design forms to collect relevant accounting data
  • Understand and develop simple accounting systems for Debtors and Creditors
  • Use a computerized accounting package
  • Design spreadsheets for use in accounting systems
  • Understand the need for audit and control procedures in accounting systems
Website Development

This unit enables trainees to create internet and intranet websites. The focus is on the creation of dynamic web pages and sites. The unit also deals with the organisation of files on a web server. Although primarily based as a unit covering website design, the unit could be taught with reference to an intranet. The option is intended for trainees wishing to gain a greater understanding of the organisation and creation of websites. Trainees are expected to have a good understanding of the basic terminology of the internet and related topics, ie email.

Systems Analysis and Design

The unit introduces the principles of investigation, analysis and design and develops skills in these areas. Trainees will learn to apply their knowledge of computer systems and information systems to the design of systems for business use. The unit emphasises the importance of documentation using a standard, structured design methodology. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication, problem solving and working with others.

System Specification and Justification

There is much hardware and software available to businesses. The cost of some items cannot be justified but others are essential to efficient business operation and competitiveness. The aim of this unit is to enable trainees to assess combinations of hardware and software that cost-effectively help to meet the objectives of an organisation. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communicationand information technology.

Networking Project

The aim of this unit is to integrate the skills and knowledge trainees have gained throughout the programme to enable them to provide a solution to a realistic problem. The project may be work based, institute based or a trainee interest, but it must be developed in accordance with the units frameworks and constraints. The project should be chosen by the trainee, under guidance from the institute to establish an appropriate level of study. This will develop the ability to produce an acceptable and viable solution to an agreed solution specification within a defined timescale and constraints. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication, information technology, improving own learning and performance and working with others.

Data Communications and Networks

The aim of this unit is to give trainees. knowledge and understanding of the essential concepts of data transmission for networks. Key to this are communication channels and the way in which various signalling techniques are used in networks to carry digital information. Trainees will learn about both the physical transmission media and ways in which wireless transmission is implemented. Developing out of this is the knowledge of the electronic equipment used to connect devices to communication pathways including network interface cards, modems and ADSL connections. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication and information technology.

Network Design and Administration

The aim of this unit is to give trainees an understanding of the fundamental technologies used to provide networked systems within the boundaries of an organisation. They will gain knowledge of the components used to create networked resources including the common topologies, hardware, connection and software requirements. Trainees will develop an understanding of planning considerations for implementing networks and the skills needed to administer their operations. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication and information technology.

Wide Area Networks

This unit examines technologies used to extend the span of networks from local area to wide area networks. It covers the reasons why geographically dispersed computer operations are necessary, the software responsible for providing inter-networking services and the hardware devices used to connect components together. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication.

Network Operating Systems

This unit aims to give trainees an in-depth understanding of how a modern network operating system (NOS) functions and the ways in which various network software provide communication processes. Trainees will examine the basic operation and configuration of a NOS to manage the internal resources of a network computer, how to prepare and install NOS software onto network machines as well as the role of the NOS in providing network services to client machines. Trainees will also learn the purpose and function of network protocols and in particular the detailed workings of Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication.

End User Support

This unit aims to develop an appreciation and understanding of the roles of IT support technicians and the support needs of end users. In addition the unit aims to develop the practical skills of trainees to meet end user support needs. This unit presents opportunities to demonstrate key skills in communication and problem solving.

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BTEC FIRST DIPLOMA IN COMPUTING STUDIES
Introduction

The First Diploma programme is aimed at preparing trainees to be immediately effective in initial employment. It provides an appropriate foundation in the broad field of Computing and Information Technology by giving potential technicians work related skills as well as a knowledge and an understanding of the work environment. Throughout the programme, the knowledge and skills which are central to the emerging professional worker in the areas of Computer and Information Technology will be developed and applied. The trainee will thus be prepared for a range of careers in Computing and will acquire abilities appropriate to the jobs they currently do or are likely to do in the near future. Relevance to current industrial and commercial needs and practice is ensured by a close liaison with local industries and by vocationally orientated assignments. The programme is devised to meet the needs of young people but it is also appropriate for some mature trainees. It is appropriate for those in employment and for those preparing for employment.

Programme Aims

The First Diploma in Computing Studies is designed to:

  • develop the vocational skills, knowledge and personal qualities necessary to achieve professional success.
  • prepare trainees to be immediately effective as trainee computer technicians working under supervision.
  • develop all aspects of the trainees communication and interpersonal skills.
  • provide a fundamental knowledge of computer hardware and software.
  • provide a sound basis for further study and career development.
  • provide diagnostic and problem solving skills and the practical experience of their application to simple computer hardware and software situations.
  • develop the ability of the trainee to work within a professional team.
Programme Structure

The programme consists of ten modules which are studied on one-year.

  • Essential Communication Skills
  • Information Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Vocational Assignments
  • Associated Workshop and Health & Safety at work
  • Introduction to Programming
  • Computer Hardware Systems
  • Maint. & Repair of Computer Systems
  • Secretarial Skills
Module Descriptions
Essential Communication Skills

This module develops communicative competence in English by creating a learning context in which the trainee is encouraged to use the language in simulated and authentic situations. The use of verbal and written communication is developed and the trainee learns a range of study skills such as accessing and using reference materials, listening and note-taking.

Information Technology

The module is practically oriented. It introduces the candidates to a range of software packages. It also provides an introduction to the basic concepts and practices of information technology. The candidate is introduced to the hardware and software components of the computer system and the basic underpinning knowledge of the information technology environment.

Mathematics

This module will enable trainees to develop skills in numercy and basic mathematics and apply them to simple problems within an engineering area.

Science

This module develops a basic knowledge of the concepts of matter, chemical reactions, elasticity, static equilibrium, pressure, linear motion, waves, energy and electricity. The application of these concepts is emphasised through experimental work in the laboratory that develops competence in the use of scientific knowledge and experimental techniques.

Vocational Assignment

An insight into work-related activities through practical applications of the knowledge and skills attained in other units is provided in this module. A number of assignments are undertaken in which the disciplines of working within a given remit and timescale, both as an individual and as a member of a team, are undertaken. The assignments develop problem solving, documentation and presentational skills.

Introduction to Programming

The level is of that of a foundation study in programming, with the emphasis on good design and implementation of simple programs rather than the more complex aspects of programming. The module is practically oriented. It is intended to introduce the candidates to the theory of programming and program design through the use of structured design methods and an appropriate programming language. It instils a structured approach to program design and develops an understanding of the importance of program documentation. It also gives the candidates an introductory understanding of software.

Computer Hardware Systems

The module is practically oriented. Most of the practical work is done in the digital lab using the digital trainer as a tool. The candidate designs and implements simple digital circuits and uses software package to draw and simulate digital circuits. The module also contains an introduction to Microprocessor architecture and assembly programming. Fundamental concepts of computer networks are introduced along with practical sessions on a chosen ~LAN operating system. The candidate practices the basic functions of operating systems using a PC operating system.

Maintenance & Repair of Computer

This practical module provides the candidate with hands-on experience in maintaining PC hardware. It introduces the candidate to faultfinding tools and procedures. The module also introduces the techniques of assembling PC hardware components and how to use hardware manuals effectively. It provides a base for further training in computer maintenance and repair.

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