Course summary

The aims of the course are to develop a systematic understanding of knowledge, tools and techniques, and a critical awareness of current problems and insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of professional practice. To develop an ability to critically analyse and apply essential concepts, principles and practices in the context of loosely defined scenarios, showing effective judgement in the selection and use of tools and techniques to achieve solutions. To develop conceptual understanding that enables the student to evaluate current research, advanced scholarship and methodologies in the discipline, develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses. To develop a comprehensive understanding of analysis and enquiry techniques, a capacity for critical evaluation of arguments, making assumptions, dealing with abstraction and handling data (that may be incomplete) to make judgements and to frame appropriate questions to achieve a solution to a problem. To develop skills necessary for the demonstration of self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and autonomy in planning and implementation of tasks at a professional level. To be able to apply methods and techniques learned for the specification, analysis, design, development, evaluation, management and documentation of systems to produce justified, self-reflective, solutions to significant problems that are fit for purpose and informed by a critical review of research and the application of established techniques of analysis and enquiry, and facilitate the development of a self-directed, life-long learner. To develop an ability to recognise the legal, social, ethical and professional issues involved in the exploitation of computer technology and be guided by the adoption of appropriate professional, ethical and legal practices. To develop qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility, decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts, the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development and the ability to clearly communicate information, ideas, problems, solutions and conclusions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences, apply enquiry and analysis appropriately and effectively, utilise IT, show organised work both as an individual and as a team member and with a minimum of supervision, solve problems and exercise critical evaluation and review of their own work and the work of others. To enhance technical and managerial understanding of software development/deployment practice by incorporating into a structured learning experience the essential features of industrial/business operations. To be able to manage risk and ensure that solutions to problems are implemented in line with change control processes. To develop a systematic understanding of knowledge, tools and techniques, at least some of which is at the forefront of defined aspects of the discipline and an ability to exercise critical judgement. To develop an ability to critically analyse and apply essential concepts, principles and practices in the context of loosely defined scenarios, showing effective judgement in the selection and use of tools and techniques to achieve a solution to a problem. To develop conceptual understanding that enables the student to devise and sustain arguments, solve problems, and describe and comment upon aspects of current research, or equivalent advanced scholarship. To develop an ability to deploy accurately established techniques of analysis and enquiry. To develop an ability to critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, abstract concepts and data (that may be incomplete), and to make judgements and to frame appropriate questions to achieve a solution to a problem.