BSc (Hons) Computer Networks

Transcription

1 BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Programme Specification Primary Purpose Course management and quality assurance. Secondary Purpose Detailed information for students, staff and employers. Current students should refer to the related Course Handbook for further detail. Disclaimer The University of Portsmouth has checked the information given in this Programme Specification Supplement. We will endeavour to deliver the course in keeping with this Programme Specification Supplement; however, changes may sometimes be required arising from annual monitoring, student feedback, review and update of units and courses. Where this activity leads to significant changes to units and courses, there will be prior consultation of students and others, wherever possible, and the University will take all reasonable steps to minimize disruption to students. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a unit or course for reasons outside of its control, for example; the absence of a member of staff or low student registration numbers. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform applicants and students as soon as possible. Where appropriate, the University will facilitate the transfer of affected students to another suitable course. Copyright The contents of this document are the copyright of the University of Portsmouth and all rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the University of Portsmouth.

2 Contents Course Details Named Awards Course Code (and UCAS Code if applicable) Awarding Body Teaching Institution Accrediting Body QAA Benchmark Groups Document Control Information Effective Session Author Faculty Department...1 Curriculum Educational Aims Reference Points General Learning Outcomes Learning Outcomes...4 A. Knowledge and Understanding of:... 4 B. Cognitive (Intellectual or Thinking) Skills, able to:... 5 C. Practical (Professional or Subject) Skills, able to:... 5 D. Transferable (Graduate and Employability) Skills, able to: Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods Assessment Strategy Course Structure, Progression and Award Requirements Employability Statement...6 Course Management Support for Student Learning Admissions Criteria...7 A. Academic Admissions Criteria... 7 B. Disability Evaluation and Enhancement of Standards and Quality in Learning and Teaching...7 A. Mechanisms for Review and Evaluation... 7 B. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation... 7 C. Mechanisms for Gaining Student Feedback... 8 D. Staff Development Priorities Assessment Regulations Role of Externals Indicators of Standards and Quality...9 A. Professional Accreditation/Recognition... 9 B. Periodic Programme Review (or equivalent)... 9 C. Quality Assurance Agency... 9 D. Others Further Information...9 i

3 Course Details 1. Named Awards BSc (Hons) Computer Networks BSc Computer Networks DipHE Computer Networks CertHE Computer Networks 2. Course Code (and UCAS Code if applicable) C2365S 3. Awarding Body University of Portsmouth 4. Teaching Institution University of Portsmouth 5. Accrediting Body IET UK-SPEC (IEng) 6. QAA Benchmark Groups Engineering 7. Document Control Information Updated July Effective Session Author R Khusainov, N Savage, C Nguyen, EJM Geddes, TG Morgan, M Filip 10. Faculty Faculty of Technology 11. Department School of Computing Curriculum 12. Educational Aims The course aims to equip students to work as professional engineers and consultants in the design, configuration and management of computer network solutions. The main focus is on the underlying principles and practice of computer and data networks. Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 1 of 9

4 The course enables students to develop both analytical and design skills across a range of subjects. This is achieved through theoretical studies alongside practical design projects, laboratory activities and group project work. Students also become conversant with industrial practice and familiar with software used to analyse and simulate computer networks. Group work projects place emphasis on teamwork, which will be a major factor in students subsequent careers. Opportunities to develop a range of keys skills also enhance students career potential making them attractive to a wide variety of employers seeking to recruit computer networks professionals. A distinctive feature of the course is a strong emphasis on hands-on experience of networks, which is a key part of the learning process. This is achieved through a wide use of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) as a mechanism for developing knowledge, understanding, and practical skills. Students work on sizeable continuous assignments throughout an academic year that are aligned with the theoretical material being covered. PBL provides solid practical grounding for theoretical studies informing design and development work. The PBL activities are supported by excellent laboratory facilities, including a bespoke networking laboratory. The laboratory provides multiplatform network suites with a variety of vendor equipment (Cisco and HP), and a Cloud Computing facility. Students gain experience of different operating systems (Windows, Linux and Unix) as well as virtualisation environments. The course culminates in an individual project, which allows students to bring together many strands of their course. Developing an understanding of the business context of computer networking, related emerging technologies and applications, is a further course aim. This is enhanced by the one-year sandwich placement option, with both UK and other European opportunities. Students also have the option to join our Cisco Networking Academy to add an industry-recognised Cisco certification to their degree. The course is accredited by the IET. It fully satisfies education requirements for professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) further benefiting career prospects of our graduates. 13. Reference Points The major reference points were the University of Portsmouth Curriculum Framework, the University of Portsmouth Education Strategy, and Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ), the QAA UK Quality Code for Higher Education and the University of Portsmouth Policy for Placement Learning. In particular the programme has been designed with the QAA s Engineering Subject Benchmark and the Engineering Council s UK-SPEC in mind. The core elements of UK-SPEC, interpreted in the context of computer network engineering, are: Science and Mathematics (SM): Knowledge and understanding of the scientific principles underpinning relevant current technologies, including basic electronic engineering and data communications, and their evolution; knowledge and understanding of mathematics necessary to support application of key engineering principles in networked computer systems, data communications, and network and computer technology. Engineering Analysis (EA): Ability to monitor, interpret and apply the results of analysis and modelling in order to bring about continuous improvement; ability to apply quantitative methods and computer software relevant to computer networks and software engineering, frequently within a multidisciplinary context; ability to use the results of analysis to solve engineering problems, apply technology and implement engineering processes; ability to apply a systems approach to computer networking problems through know-how of the application of the relevant technologies. Design (D): Knowledge, understanding and skills to: define a problem and identify constraints; design solutions according to customer and user needs; use creativity and innovation in a practical context; ensure fitness for purpose (including operation, maintenance, reliability etc); adapt designs to meet their new purposes or applications, with particular focus to computer network systems and software; awareness of business, customer and user needs and the ability to communicate work to technical and non-technical audiences. Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 2 of 9

5 Economic, Legal, Social, Ethical, and Environmental Context (ET): Knowledge and understanding of commercial and economic context of engineering processes; knowledge of management techniques which may be used to achieve engineering objectives within that context; understanding of the requirement for sustainable development; awareness of the framework of relevant legal requirements, including personnel, health, safety, and risk (including environmental risk) issues; understanding of the need for a high level of professional and ethical conduct in engineering. Engineering Practice (EP): Understanding of and ability to use relevant materials, equipment, tools, processes, or products; knowledge and understanding of workshop and laboratory practice; engineering project management methods, including planning, monitoring, control and reporting; use of technical; ability to use and apply information from technical literature; ability to use appropriate codes of practice and industry standards; Understanding of the principles of managing engineering processes; awareness of quality issues and their application to continuous improvement; knowledge of context in which computer network engineering can be applied (network operations and management, network applications development, etc.). The abbreviations in parentheses are used for cross-reference purposes in the learning outcomes 14. General Learning Outcomes Level 4 Certificates of Higher Education are awarded to students who have demonstrated: knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with their area(s) of study, and an ability to evaluate and interpret these within the context of that area of study an ability to present, evaluate and interpret qualitative and quantitative data, in order to develop lines of argument and make sound judgements in accordance with basic theories and concepts of their subject(s) of study Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to: evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems related to their area(s) of study and/or work communicate the results of their study/work accurately and reliably, and with structured and coherent arguments undertake further training and develop new skills within a structured and managed environment And holders will have: the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility Level 5 Diplomas in Higher Education are awarded to students who have demonstrated: knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles of their area(s) of study, and of the way in which those principles have developed ability to apply underlying concepts and principles outside the context in which they were first studied, including, where appropriate, the application of those principles in an employment context knowledge of the main methods of enquiry in the subject(s) relevant to the named award, and ability to evaluate critically the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems in the field of study an understanding of the limits of their knowledge, and how this influences analyses and interpretations based on that knowledge Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to: use a range of established techniques to initiate and undertake critical analysis of information, and to propose solutions to problems arising from that analysis Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 3 of 9

6 effectively communicate information, arguments and analysis in a variety of forms to specialist and non-specialist audiences, and deploy key techniques of the discipline effectively undertake further training, develop existing skills and acquire new competences that will enable them to assume significant responsibility within organisations And holders will have: the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of personal responsibility and decision-making Level 6 Bachelor s degrees are awarded to students who have demonstrated: a systematic understanding of key aspects of their field of study, including acquisition of coherent and detailed knowledge, at least some of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of defined aspects of a discipline an ability to deploy accurately established techniques of analysis and enquiry within a discipline conceptual understanding that enables the student: to devise and sustain arguments, and/or to solve problems, using ideas and techniques, some of which are at the forefront of a discipline to describe and comment upon particular aspects of current research, or equivalent advanced scholarship, in the discipline an appreciation of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge the ability to manage their own learning, and to make use of scholarly reviews and primary sources (for example, refereed research articles and/or original materials appropriate to the discipline) Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to: apply the methods and techniques that they have learned to review, consolidate, extend and apply their knowledge and understanding, and to initiate and carry out projects critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, abstract concepts and data (that may be incomplete), to make judgements, and to frame appropriate questions to achieve a solution - or identify a range of solutions - to a problem communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences And holders will have: the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility decision-making in complex and unpredictable contexts the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature 15. Learning Outcomes A. Knowledge and Understanding of: A.1 Computer network and data communication fundamentals, computer network applications, programming and scripting for computer networks, design and use of inter- and intra-network systems and technologies (including protocols, hardware and software), security systems, operation and configuration of networked computers. (SM, EA, D, EP) A.2 Mathematical methods appropriate to the analysis and design of computer networks. (SM) A.3 The role of computing and simulation in the analysis and solution of problems. (D, EP, ET) A.4 Practical design of network-based systems. (D, EP) A.5 The business context of engineering and technology: commercial, legal, contractual and statutory frameworks. (ET) A.6 Professional and ethical responsibility. (ET) Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 4 of 9

7 A.7 (Sandwich placements) Technological practice and the roles of technologists in industry (EP). B. Cognitive (Intellectual or Thinking) Skills, able to: B.1 Select and apply appropriate knowledge of network hardware and software principles to model and analyse computer network systems. (SM, EA, EP) B.2 Select and apply appropriate mathematical methods to analyse networked systems. (EA) B.3 Select and apply computer-based design and simulation techniques. (EP, EA) B.4 Design, build and test network systems and subsystems to meet specified requirements. (D, EP) B.5 Assess computer network systems from commercial, ethical and statutory viewpoints, including assessment of risks. (ET) B.6 Solve problems in a systematic and manageable manner. (EP) C. Practical (Professional or Subject) Skills, able to: C.1 Use standard and specialist laboratory instruments and network analysis tools, conduct experiments and report on them. (EP) C.2 Apply relevant mathematical methods in developing solutions to problems in computer networks. (SM, EA) C.3 Use computer-based simulation and design tools. (D, EA) C.4 Design, configure/construct, test and evaluate computer network systems and applications. (D, EP, EA) C.5 Search a range of sources for information pertinent to technical and professional tasks. (EP) C.6 Plan, manage and undertake a significant engineering project, taking into account constraints. (D, EP, ET) D. Transferable (Graduate and Employability) Skills, able to: D.1 Manipulate and present information. (D, ET) D.2 Analyse scientific information in the solution of problems. (SM, EA) D.3 Use information technology to handle text and data and for simulation and design. (EA, D) D.4 Develop solutions in a creative manner, sometimes based on incomplete information. (D, EP) D.5 Communicate effectively in a variety of formats. (D, ET) D.6 Work effectively as an individual and as part of a team to achieve goals. (D, ET) D.7 Communicate in a foreign language (where languages are studied as electives). 16. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods Knowledge (1, 2, 3) is acquired through lectures, design projects, network and computer laboratory work. Directed reading, study guides, tutorial questions, worked examples and design problems support individual learning. Practical design considerations (4) are learned through lectures, project work, practical exercises and simulations. The business, industrial, and professional contexts (5, 6) are mainly understood through lectures, engineering applications and group project. Sandwich students (7) learn through experience and observation on an industrial placement for one year. Intellectual and analytical skills (1, 2) are developed through lectures, design and experimental work, case studies and worked examples. The ability to apply knowledge to achieve viable solutions (3, 4, and 6) is acquired through design projects and simulations. Assessment of networks from a commercial standpoint (5) is developed through business and application focussed lectures, and through group projects. Experimental and project work are used to develop skills in using laboratory instrumentation (1) and in the design and configuration of networks (4). Analytical and design exercises develop the ability to apply mathematics appropriately (2). Use is made of simulation software to synthesize and evaluate complex designs (3). The ability to research, plan and manage project work (5, 6) is acquired through individual projects and group projects Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 5 of 9

8 17. Assessment Strategy Testing of core knowledge is through a mix of unseen examinations, assignment work and tests (some of which are computer based). Cognitive skills are assessed through examination, assignment work and project reports. Laboratory work, simulation work and projects are generally assessed by submission of logbooks and reports and by observation. These skills are particularly assessed through individual and group design activities and projects and their associated reports and verbal presentations. The abilities to solve problems are also assessed in assignments and examinations. 18. Course Structure, Progression and Award Requirements See Unit Web Search 1 for full details on the course structure and units This is a 3 year full-time or 4 year sandwich course. The course includes of a mix of lectures, experimental work and design projects. It makes extensive use of the School s computer suites and network laboratories and some use of the electronics laboratories. Whilst the majority of units have a focus on the course technology, professional studies units develop study skills, group working and an understanding of business. The course consists of 20-credit taught units, where 20 credits represent 200 hours of study time including timetabled activities. Each year consists of 120 credits. At the end of the course there is a 40-credit individual project, which may be carried out within the School or in industry. Scheduled small group tutorials ensure that contact is maintained between students and their personal tutors. The course as a whole is highly career-focused, with the technical content and opportunities to develop analytical and design skills being the major factors contributing to this. Practical work uses network and software systems that are widely used in industry and this familiarity eases the transfer of graduates into employment. The content of the course is periodically discussed with our Industrial Advisory Board. The industrial placement, which is usually taken between the second and final year of a sandwich course is strongly recommended, and the School has a number of exchange arrangements, which provide overseas industrial placements. 19. Employability Statement Students are introduced to career development, commercial context and business topics throughout the course to provide the employment context for their studies. Students are also expected to build and maintain a professional development record, which reflects the professional development guidelines ( of four key professional bodies. It includes the University s personal development profiling activities, but more importantly, builds a clear evidence base for the student s technical and professional competencies. The small group tutorial system provides additional support for careers and PDR activities. Institution Wide Language Programme (IWLP) units are available at level 5 for those students who are interested in supplementing their employment prospects with foreign language skills. The optional sandwich year is dedicated to gaining real-world professional experience, and students are given help in identifying placements through the Faculty s Student Placement and Employability Centre and through the School s Industrial Placements Coordinator. The School operates an Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) to remain up to date with current employment trends and requirements. The distinguishing emphasis of the course on the hands-on experience ensures that graduates from the course become capable practitioners in the design, development, and application of computer networks. Students have the option to join a Cisco Networking Academy established in the School to add an industry-recognised Cisco certification to their degree. 1 Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 6 of 9

9 Course Management 20. Support for Student Learning The Course is managed by a Course Leader. At the start of each academic year, all students participate in an extensive induction programme relative to their stage of study. This includes introduction to the University and its facilities, as well as relevant course aspects. Each student is assigned a personal tutor, responsible for pastoral support and guidance. Students are visited during the placement year, and are required to maintain a logbook of work experiences and competencies gained. University support services include careers, financial advice, housing, and counselling. The Academic Skills Unit (ASK) provides support for developing fundamental academic skills, including thinking, writing, and organisational skills. The Additional Support and Disability Advice Centre (ASDAC) serves the needs of disabled students. Extensive computing and network laboratory facilities support students practical work. The University provides excellent library facilities. The University of Portsmouth has consistently been awarded an excellent rating for student support and guidance in a number of Quality Assurance Agency inspections. Student course and unit handbooks provide information about the course structure and University regulations. All units incorporate Key Skills opportunities. Feedback is provided for all assessments, including typed written feedback on all submitted coursework. Personal Development Planning (PDP) is a part of all awards. 21. Admissions Criteria A. Academic Admissions Criteria Standard University rules apply. In addition, a UCAS tariff of points is expected, to include a minimum of 2 A levels or equivalent. English language proficiency is required at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5. Other qualifications are accepted including access courses and equivalent overseas awards. This process is regulated by the University of Portsmouth Recognition of Prior Learning Policy, Procedures and Guidance 2. B. Disability The University makes no distinction in its admissions policy with regard to disability and will endeavour to make all reasonable adjustments in order to make it possible for students to study at Portsmouth on a course of their choice. 22. Evaluation and Enhancement of Standards and Quality in Learning and Teaching A. Mechanisms for Review and Evaluation Course Leader s Annual Standards and Quality Evaluative Review. 2 Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 7 of 9

10 Head of School s Annual Standards and Quality Evaluative Review. Unit and Course Level student feedback considered at Board of Studies. Unit Assessment Board consideration of student performance for each programme. Annual Standards and Quality Reports to Board of Studies, including consideration of Subject and Award External Examiner Reports. Periodic Programme Review. Student Representatives and Student/Staff Consultative Committees. National Student Survey. Staff Performance and Development Review. Peer Review and Development Framework. Faculty Learning and Teaching Committee. B. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation Unit Co-ordinators for unit content and delivery. Course Leader. Board of Studies. Head of School. Associate Dean (Academic). Associate Dean (Students). Quality Assurance Committee. Unit, Award and Progression Board of Examiners. C. Mechanisms for Gaining Student Feedback Student Representation on Board of Studies. Student Staff Consultative Committees. Unit and Course level student feedback questionnaires. University participates in external student surveys, e.g. National Student Survey (NSS), Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) and International Student Barometer (ISB). D. Staff Development Priorities Academic staff undertake activities related to research, scholarship, teaching and learning and student support and guidance. Annual staff performance and development reviews match development to needs. Managers undertake a variety of management development programmes. All academic staff are encouraged to seek Higher Education Academy membership. Academic staff new to teaching are required to undertake APEX (Academic Professional Excellence Framework) Programme. Support Staff are encouraged to attend short courses in areas such as minute taking, and specific IT packages. 23. Assessment Regulations The current University of Portsmouth academic regulations will apply to this programme (see Assessment and Regulations 3 ). 3 Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 8 of 9

11 24. Role of Externals Subject External Examiners who will: Oversee unit assessment and usually attend Unit Assessment Boards Review unit assessment strategy Sample assessment artefacts Present report to Unit Assessment Boards Award External Examiners (usually also a Subject External Examiner) who will: Oversee and attend Award/Progression Boards Scrutinise and endorse the outcomes of assessment Ensure that the standard of the award is maintained at a level comparable with that of similar awards elsewhere in the United Kingdom 25. Indicators of Standards and Quality A. Professional Accreditation/Recognition The course is accredited under UK-SPEC by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) to fully satisfy educational requirements for Incorporated Engineer (IEng). B. Periodic Programme Review (or equivalent) The provision previously in the School of Engineering, now within the School of Computing, had its Periodic Programme Review in December The result was that the fitness for purpose of the curriculum was confirmed and the annual monitoring and review processes were identified as effective. C. Quality Assurance Agency QAA Higher Education Review, March 2015, judgements about standards and quality meet UK expectations (for full report see HE Review of the University of Portsmouth, March ). D. Others The School of Computing is an Academic Partner of the British Computer Society (BCS). The University of Portsmouth has been successful in bidding for the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) grant towards a new, cutting edge Future Technology Centre (FTC). The 11m Centre will support significant innovation and expansion of the University s engineering and science provision and enable the University to develop new courses in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects, including flexible courses in partnership with employers. FTC, which opened in 2018, includes flexible teaching and social learning spaces to promote creativity, problem-solving and team building; high specification IT and industry-standard resources, including applied physics; advanced imagining and visualisation tools, and fabrication and rapid prototyping laboratories. The University of Portsmouth has a prestigious 'Gold' rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) one of only four Gold-rated universities in the South East. 26. Further Information Further information may be found in: Student Handbook University of Portsmouth Curriculum Framework Document University of Portsmouth Prospectus University of Portsmouth 5 and School/Department 6 websites 4 Programme Specification for BSc (Hons) Computer Networks Page 9 of 9

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