P rogramme Specification - Solihull College · Computing HND Programme Outcome Knowledge and...
Transcript of P rogramme Specification - Solihull College · Computing HND Programme Outcome Knowledge and...
Programme Specification
Awarded by
HND Diploma in Computing (Networking Engineering and General)
Programme Specification
Title of Programme: HND Diploma in Computing
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.
1. Awarding Body Pearson BTEC
2. Teaching location Blossomfield Campus, Solihull College and University Centre
3. Accreditation details N/A
4. Final award Higher National Diploma
5. Name of award Higher National Diploma in Computing (RQF)
6. Codes
a. UCAS code
b. Solihull Qualification Code
c. Edexcel Programme Code (& approval dates)
105G
IPHHB061BCF1
603/0471/6 2017
7. QAA Subject Benchmark or other external reference such as published by Edexcel if the course is a Higher National
Computing
8. Date this specification applies from
01.09.2018
Approved
Mohammed Maher
Head of School – Computing & ICT
9. Educational Aims of the Programme
The HND Computing is designed to meet the following aims:
Equip individuals with knowledge, understanding and skills for success in employment in networking, systems support or software development.
Enable progression to an undergraduate degree or further professional qualification in computing or a related area.
Provide opportunities for specialist study relevant to individual vocations and contexts.
Support individuals employed or entering employment in the computing industry.
Develop the individual’s ability in the computing industry through effective use and combination of the knowledge and skills gained in different parts of the programme.
Develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attributes essential for successful performance in working life and thereby enabling learners to make an immediate contribution to employment.
Provide flexibility, knowledge, skills and motivation as a basis for future studies and career development in computing.
10. Intended Learning Outcomes
The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, cognitive skills, applied skills and transferrable skills as mapped against FHEQ:
See Appendix 1 for the curriculum maps
Key
KU Knowledge and Understanding
CS Cognitive Skills
AS Applied Skills
TS Transferable Skills
The qualification will be awarded to students who have demonstrated:
FHEQ Level 5 descriptor
Computing HND Programme
Outcome
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
KU1 Knowledge and understanding of the
fundamental principles and practices of the
contemporary global computing
environment.
KU2 Understanding and insight into different
organisations, their diverse nature,
purposes, structures and operations and
their influence upon the external
environment.
KU3 A critical understanding of the evolving
concepts, theories and models within the
study of computing across a range of
practical and hypothetical scenarios.
KU4 An ability to evaluate and analyse a range of
concepts, theories and models to make
appropriate decisions.
KU5 An appreciation of the concepts and
principles of CPD, staff development,
leadership and reflective practice as
methods and strategies for personal and
people development.
KU6 Knowledge and understanding of vital
concepts, principles and theories relating
to computing and computer applications,
software development, networking and
media systems.
KU7 Critical understanding of how computer-
based technologies interrelate and
communicate with one another, support
processes and lead to a computerised
solution to a problem.
KU8 Understanding of the application of
appropriate mathematical techniques in
the design and development of software
and computer systems.
KU9 Critical understanding of the use of
industry standard technical documentation
and practices.
KU10 Develop a range of multi-disciplined
programming and coding skills.
KU11 Deploy appropriate tools, theories,
principles and methodologies to analyse,
specify, construct, test and evaluate a
computer based system in an appropriate
context
KU12 An ability to apply industry-standard
methods in human-computer interaction to
inform the development of usable
interfaces.
FHEQ Level 5 descriptor
Computing HND Programme
Outcome
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
AS1 Evidence the ability to show client
relationship management and develop
appropriate policies and strategies to meet
stakeholder expectations.
AS2 Apply innovative ideas to develop and
create new systems or services that
respond to the changing nature of
organisations.
AS3 Integrate theory and practice through the
investigation and examination of practices
in the workplace.
AS4 Develop outcomes for clients using
appropriate practices and data to make
justified recommendations.
AS5 Apply IT concepts and principles to
critically evaluate and analyse complex
practical problems and provide IT
based solutions.
AS6 Effectively apply appropriate
computer based technologies to
analyse, develop and maintain
reliable software.
CS1 Deploy appropriate theory, practices
and tools in order to analyse, specify,
design and implement computing
systems and software applications.
CS2 Recognise and critically evaluate the
professional, economic, social,
environmental, moral and ethical
issues that influence the sustainable
exploitation of computerbased
technologies.
AS7 Employ a range of analytical
techniques and design tools in the
development of secure software.
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.
CS3 Critique a range of systems and
operations and their application to
maximise and successfully meet
strategic objectives.
KU13 An understanding of the
appropriate techniques and
methodologies used to resolve
real-life problems in the
workplace.
TS1 Develop a skill set to enable the
evaluation of appropriate actions
taken for solving problems in a
specific organisational context.
An understanding of the limits of their
knowledge, and how this influences
analysis and interpretations based on that
knowledge.
TS2 Self-reflection, including self-
awareness; the ability to become an
effective self-student and appreciate
the value of the self- reflection process.
TS3 Undertake independent learning to
expand on own skills and delivered
content.
Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to:
FHEQ Level 5 descriptor
Computing HND Programme
Outcomes
Use a range of established techniques to
initiate and undertake critical analysis of
information, and to propose solutions to
problems arising from that analysis.
TS4 Competently use digital literacy to
access a broad range of research
sources, data and information.
CS4 Interpret, analyse and evaluate a range of
data, sources and information to inform
evidence-based decision making.
CS5 Synthesise knowledge and critically
evaluate strategies and plans to
understand the relationship between
theory and real-world scenarios.
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.
TS5 Communicate confidently and effectively,
both orally and in writing, both internally
and externally with organisations and other
stakeholders.
TS6 Communicate ideas and arguments in an
innovative manner using a range of digital
media.
AS8 Locate, receive and respond to a variety of
information sources (e.g. textual,
numerical, graphical and computer-based)
in defined contexts.
TS7 Communicate effectively, verbally and
in writing and articulate well- defined
issues, for a variety of purposes,
taking into account the audience
viewpoint
TS8 Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills,
including effective listening and oral
communication skills, as well as the
associated ability to persuade, present,
pitch and negotiate.
Undertake further training, develop
existing skills and acquire new
competences that will enable them to
assume significant responsibility within
organisations
TS9 Identify personal and professional
goals for continuing professional
development in order to enhance
competence to practise within a
chosen computing field.
TS10 Take advantage of available pathways for
continuing professional development
through higher education, Professional
Body Qualifications and Vendor Accredited
Certifications.
Holders will also have:
FHEQ Level 5 descriptor
Computing HND Programme
Outcomes
The qualities and transferable skills
necessary for employment requiring the
exercise of personal responsibility and
decision-making.
TS11 Develop a range of skills to ensure effective
team working, independent initiatives,
organisational competence and problem-
solving strategies.
TS12 Show an ability to work as a member of a
development team, recognising the different
roles within a team and the different ways of
organising teams
TS13 Reflect adaptability and flexibility in
approach to work; showing resilience
under pressure and meeting challenging
targets within given deadlines.
TS14 Use quantitative skills to manipulate data,
evaluate and verify existing theory.
TS15 Show awareness of current
developments within the computing
industry and their impact on
employability and CPD.
TS16 Manage small to medium scale projects
using appropriate planning and time
management techniques.
CS6 Evaluate the changing needs of the
business environment and have
confidence to self-evaluate and
undertake additional CPD as necessary.
TS17 Display emotional intelligence and
sensitivity to diversity in relation to
people and cultures.
Teaching and Learning Methods
The following learning opportunities are provided to enable learners to develop and demonstrate their achievement of learning outcomes:
Acquisition of core knowledge is through a mixture of lecture/presentations/demonstrations, tutorials, group seminars and directed study;
Analytic thinking skills are developed through discussion and debate in group and tutorial sessions;
Practical work is an essential component of the programme and may involve presentations and demonstrations;
Common skills such as oral and written communication will be developed in group and tutorial sessions, through assignments and particularly through project work;
Additionality, including study towards Cisco and Microsoft qualifications such as CCENT, CCNA, MTA or MCSA can also be undertaken. See section 17 for further details.
Global hours for this program is 400 hours including tutorials Assessment methods
Assessment activities provide major opportunities for learning. Assessment criteria are linked to individual module outcomes.
Assessment methods include:
Case studies
Pearson (Externally set) Assignments
Time constrained assessments
Reports
Individual / group presentations
Practical assessments
Individual / group project work
11. Programme Structure
There are two distinct pathways that can be undertaken:
Network Engineering (Net Eng)
General (Gen)
Pearson Reference
Unit No.
Module Title RQF Level
Gen Core / Key / Optional
Net Eng Core / Key / Optional
Available Modules (subject to sufficient demand):
D/615/1618 1 Programming 4 C C
H/615/1619 2 Networking 4 C C
Y/615/1620 3 Professional Practice 4 C C
H/615/1622 4 Database Design & Development 4 C C
K/615/1623 5 Security 4 C C
T/615/1625 6 Managing a Successful Computing Project (*PS) 4 C C
A/615/1626 7 Strategic Information Systems 4 R O
J/615/1628 8 Computer Systems Architecture 4 O R
D/615/1635 11 Maths for Computing 4 R R
T/615/1639 13 Computing Research Project (*PS) (30 Credit) 5 C C
M/615/1641 14 Business Intelligence 5 C C
T/615/1642 15 Transport Network Design 5 O M
F/615/1644 16 Cloud Computing 5 R M
L/615/1646 17 Network Security 5 O M
F/615/1661 25 Information Security Management 5 R R
L/615/1677 34 Systems Analysis & Design 5 R O
Y/615/1679 35 Network Management 5 O R
L/615/1680 36 Client/Server Computing Systems 5 O R
Legend: Pre - Requisites for Top Up Progression
C- Core Modules
M – Mandatory Modules
R-Recommended Modules
O - Optional Modules
* These module assessments are Pearson Set.
*
Summary of HND Computing Course Specification:
Student commences HE study at Level 4.
Programme code: TBA
Qualification code IPHHB061BCF1
All modules have a 15 credit rating, except for T/615/1639 - Computing Research Project, which has a 30 credit rating.
To achieve a Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma qualification a student must have: completed units equivalent to 120 credits at Level 5; achieved at least a Pass in 105 credits at Level 5; completed units equivalent to 120 credits at Level 4; achieved at least a Pass in 105 credits at Level 4. attempted all units in a valid combination.
A student can still be awarded a HND if they have not achieved a minimum of a Pass in one of the 15 credit units at Level 4 and one of the 15 credit units at Level 5
The calculation of the overall qualification grade is based on the student’s performance in all Level 5 units only to the value of 120 credits. Students are awarded a Pass, Merit or Distinction qualification grade using the points gained through all 120 credits, based on unit achievement.
Points per credit: Pass: 4, Merit: 6, Distinction: 8
Pass – 420 - 599 points
Merit – 600 – 838 Points
Distinction – Over 840 Points
The Eight core modules are mandatory.
The HND offer consists of 16 formally taught modules, selected from the core and key modules from each pathway listed above.
Alternative or Additional modules can be studied within each pathway subject to availability and agreement with the course tutor.
Units highlighted orange above are pre-requisites for eligibility for the top up degree
Units designated at Level 5, require students to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge more widely and to use critical analysis where appropriate.
Full Pearson HND Computing course specifications are available at: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-higher-nationals/computing-2017.html#tab-1
Level 4 Modules : Unit 1 Programming (15 Credits – Level 4) – Core Unit
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1. Define basic algorithms to carry out an operation and outline the process of programming
an application.
LO2. Explain the characteristics of procedural, object-orientated and event-driven programming,
conduct an analysis of a suitable Integrated Development Environment (IDE).
LO3. Implement basic algorithms in code using an IDE.
LO4. Determine the debugging process and explain the importance of a coding standard.
Unit 2 Networking (15 Credits – Level 4) – Core Unit
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1. Examine networking principles and their protocols.
LO2. Explain networking devices and operations.
LO3. Design efficient networked systems.
LO4. Implement and diagnose networked systems.
Unit 3 Professional Practice (15 Credits – level 4) – Core Unit
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Demonstrate a range of interpersonal and transferable communication skills to a target audience.
LO2 Apply critical reasoning and thinking to a range of problem-solving scenarios.
LO3 Discuss the importance and dynamics of working within a team and the impact of team working in different environments.
LO4 Examine the need for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and its role within the workplace and for higher level learning.
Unit 4 Database Design & Development (15 Credits – level 5) – Core Unit
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1. Use an appropriate design tool to design a relational database system for a substantial
problem.
LO2. Develop a fully functional relational database system, based on an existing system design.
LO3. Test the system against user and system requirements. LO4.
Produce technical and user documentation.
Unit 5 Security (15 Credits – Level 4) – Core Unit
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Assess risks to IT security.
LO2 Describe IT security solutions.
LO3 Review mechanisms to control organisational IT security.
LO4 Manage organisational security.
Unit 6 Managing a Successful Computing Project (15 Credits – Level 4) – Core Unit
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Establish project aims, objectives and timeframes based on the chosen theme.
LO2 Conduct small-scale research, information gathering and data collection to generate
knowledge to support the project.
LO3 Present the project and communicate appropriate recommendations based on meaningful
conclusions drawn from the evidence findings and/or analysis.
LO4 Reflect on the value gained from conducting the project and its usefulness to support
sustainable organisational performance.
Unit 7 Strategic Information Systems (15 Credits – Level 4)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Analyse the information requirements of organisations.
LO2 Discuss the types of information systems that are used within all levels of an organisation.
LO3 Demonstrate the use of an information system to produce management information.
LO4 Evaluate the effectiveness of strategic information systems. Unit 8 Computer Systems Architecture (15 Credits – Level 4)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Explain the relationships between hardware components and the subsystems used in a
computer system.
LO2 Categorise the key features and services provided by different computer operating
systems and hardware.
LO3 Use network communication technology and the associated services to connect
computer systems.
LO4 Demonstrate diagnostic and troubleshooting skills to solve hardware, software and
networking related issues.
Unit 11 Maths for Computing (15 Credits – Level 4)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Use applied number theory in practical computing scenarios.
LO2 Analyse events using probability theory and probability distributions.
L03 Determine solutions of graphical examples using geometry and vector methods.
LO4 Evaluate problems concerning differential and integral calculus.
Level 5 Modules : Unit 13 Computing Research Project (30 Credits – Level 5) - Core
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Examine appropriate research methodologies and approaches as part of the research
process.
LO2 Conduct and analyse research relevant to a computing research project.
LO3 Communicate the outcomes of a research project to identified stakeholders.
LO4 Reflect on the application of research methodologies and concepts.
Unit 14 Business Intelligence (15 Credits – Level 5) - Core
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Discuss business processes and the mechanisms used to support business decision-
making.
LO2 Compare the tools and technologies associated with business intelligence functionality.
LO3 Demonstrate the use of business intelligence tools and technologies.
LO4 Discuss the impact of business intelligence tools and technologies for effective decision-
making purposes and the legal/regulatory context in which they are used.
Unit 15 Transport Network Design (15 Credits – Level 5)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1 Explore LAN design principles and their application in the network design process.
LO2 Implement a network using LAN design principles based on a predefined set of
requirements.
LO3 Produce an appropriate WAN solution to a set of organisational
requirements.
LO4 Solve a range of network related problems using appropriate troubleshooting techniques and
methods.
Unit 16 Cloud Computing (15 Credits – Level 5)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamentals of Cloud Computing and its
architectures.
LO2. Evaluate the deployment models, service models and technological drivers of Cloud
Computing and validate their use.
LO3. Develop Cloud Computing solutions using service provider’s frameworks and open source
tools.
LO4. Analyse the technical challenges for cloud applications and assess their risks. Unit 17 Network Security (15 Credits – Level 5)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1. Examine Network Security principles, protocols and standards.
LO2. Design a secure network for a corporate environment.
LO3. Configure Network Security measures for the corporate environment.
LO4 Undertake the testing of a network using a Test Plan.
Unit 25 Information Security Management (15 Credits – Level 5)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1. Explore the basic principles of information security management.
LO2. Critically assess how an organisation can implement and maintain an
Information Security Management System (ISMS).
LO3. Appraise an ISMS and describe any weaknesses it may contain.
LO4. Examine the strengths and weaknesses of implementing ISMS standards. Unit 34 Systems Analysis & Design (15 Credits – Level 5)
By the end of the unit students will be able to:
LO1. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the traditional and agile systems analysis
methodologies.
LO2. Produce a feasibility study for a system for a business-related problem.
LO3. Analyse their system using a suitable methodology.
LO4. Design the system to meet user and system requirements. Unit 35 Network Management (15 Credits – Level 5)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1. Explore the concepts and principles of Network Management.
LO2. Plan, Design, Setup and Configure a network.
LO3. Justify the Protocols and Standards concerned with Networking and Network Management.
LO4. Use tools and methods to manage a network, including Network Security and Risk
Management.
Unit 36 Client/Server Computing Systems (15 Credits – Level 5)
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
LO1. Explore the concepts of servers, clients, and processes and the differences between PPID
and PID.
LO2. Analyse the communication processes between clients and servers in different
application protocols with records captured from the internet.
LO3. Create a client/server model in a Linux system with User Datagram Protocol (UDP),
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Application Layer protocols.
12. Support for Students and Their Learning
Student progression on course is supported both by subject tutors and central College services and includes:
An induction programme introducing new students to the subject of study, higher level skills that need to be developed, and the college facilities (including the library, IT facilities, staff and other students).
College and course/ module handbooks available in print and electronic format on Moodle.
Personal and academic support is integrated in teaching provided by supportive and accessible tutors and identified 1:1 support sessions are also available.
A modern well-equipped library and up-to-date ICT equipment.
Study skills sessions integrated in programme.
Personal development planning sessions integrated into programme via specific Personal Development Plan sessions and a Personal Skills Development module.
Up-to-date Computer laboratories with specialist facilities for computer networking and multimedia computing.
Access to counsellors and support for students with special needs.
Written assignment / assessment feedback (normally provided within 3 weeks of assessment submission).
Regular 1:1 and group tutorial support.
Access to regularly updated course section and college wide sections on the college’s intranet Moodle.
Dedicated HE area and dedicated practical laboratories.
13. Criteria for Admission
Students should have at least:
A minimum of 64 UCAS tariff points
https://www.ucas.com/ucas/undergraduate/getting-started/entry-requirements/ucas-undergraduate-tariff-points
Examples include:
o National Diploma with a minimum MM profile
o Extended Diploma with a minimum MPP profile
o 2 GCE “A” levels with a CC profile (at least one should be in a related subject).
o Access to HE Diploma (At least 15 credits must be at Merit level)
Plus:
GCSE’s in Maths and English grade 4 or grade C. Alternative equivalent level 2 qualifications may be accepted such as Functional Skills level 2 Pass.
Mature students may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience (paid and/or unpaid) and/or achievement of a range of professional qualifications in their work sector. This will be reviewed at interview.
All candidates must be successful at interview.
14. Progression
On completion of the Higher National Diploma programme at Solihull College the learner will have the opportunity to progress to an Honours Degree or a Graduate Diploma. The level at which the learner will be able to access the degree will depend on the HND grades achieved and the type of course applied for.
To progress directly to stage 6 (final Year) of the Bsc (Hons) In Business Systems and Technology (Newman University) a student must normally have gained a HND in Computing including the pre-requisites described in the table above, passing the H2 (level 5) modules with at least 700 points. A bridging module(s) will be required to allow progression to this course.
Progression to other Honours Degree courses in Networking or Software Development at other Universities will also be considered, the admissions criteria will be determined by the Universities Admission Tutor.
Students who do not reach the standards described above but who have gained a HND may normally join stage 5 of a corresponding Honours Degree course at many Universities.
The course offers the opportunity to work towards vendor specific qualifications (Cisco and/or Microsoft) within their program of study, which will greatly enhance employability opportunities within the sector.
15. Evaluating the Quality of Teaching and Learning The Quality of the Programme is monitored and assured by evaluation of the Standards of Teaching and Learning using the results of the following documents:
Student feedback questionnaires, initial impressions and the spring survey
Module review forms completed by students at the end of every module and summarised by the course leader.
Student input to the Programme Quality Board held twice a year.
Student representations made through the HE Student Council.
Action areas fed by the above to the course based Self-Assessment Reviews, Annual Monitoring Report and Quality Improvement Plan.
Findings of the teaching observation scheme and recommendations for improvement that are made.
External Examiners report and audit of assessed work
Annual Teaching Observation scheme, Annual Appraisal and Personal Development Log
Internal Verification process within teaching team
Regular team meetings
16. Regulation of Assessment
The programme is the subject of an Annual Monitoring Report (AMR) the last section of which is a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP), written by the course team, this is passed to the Head of School of Business for audit and from them to the quality unit for further audit and acceptance as part of the College plan
Assessment and assessment vehicles are regulated by the internal verification system for each programme which is itself audited by the quality unit within the College and also by the External Examiner appointed by Pearson.
Also the programme is the subject of periodic review by QAA, ensuring that national benchmarks are met throughout the programme.
Visiting Examiners are appointed by Pearson. The role of visiting examiner is that of moderator. In order to do this they:
Approve examination programmes;
Review samples of assessed course work;
Provide feedback to the Program Assessment Board
17. Enhancement
Actions identified in the evaluation process are developed into the enhancement plan for the improvement of teaching and learning across the whole programme. An action plan is produced in each Annual Monitoring Report and this feeds to the programme Self-Assessment document which informs the Business Plan for the School.
Good practice in Teaching and Learning is developed through the regular staff development and staff meetings at programme and school level. It is further enhanced by the integration of lecturers on this programme teaching and assisting the learning of students on other programmes in the College, thus contributing to a sharing of best practice across different programmes. Lecturers also take part in Internal Verification of fellow lecturer’s assignments and assessment vehicles.
Development and enhancement of individual lecturers knowledge of up to date technical knowledge and of modern teaching practices is ensured through the annual appraisal scheme. Lecturers are encouraged to identify their own needs and to make their own arrangements with suitable companies to update their skills and knowledge.
Enhancement of the Student learning experience takes place via the arrangements of visits both academic and social, the introduction of speakers from outside the College, usually from a related industrial background; this increases the experience of the student, adds to their knowledge and improves understanding at a practical level.
Students are encouraged to work towards vendor specific qualifications within their program of study, such as Cisco CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry), CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) or Microsoft MTA (Microsoft Technology Associate) or MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) awards. Access to vendor approved course materials are included in the program, as well as official course completion certificates. If the student requires external certification then these costs are not included in the HND course fee.
18. Programme Resources
Due to the nature of this programme access to networking and other specialised computer hardware and software facilities such as, virtualisation tools, Cisco and Microsoft based curricula and facilities are required.
Dedicated Higher Education teaching area.
Dedicated Higher Education Computing rooms
Vocationally relevant equipment.
Student resource facility for the loan of specialist equipment (e.g. lap top computers, digital cameras, video cameras etc.)
Well stocked library with frequent review and update of books.
E-library resources including access to online journals and e-books.
A wide range of external links with the public sector for student trips or external specialist speakers.
Student Employability
This programme is part of Solihull College’s commitment to meeting the needs of local, national and international employers by delivering a diverse range of educational models including part-time and work-based study for learners drawn from non-traditional backgrounds in addition to internal progressions from FE vocational programmes. As part of this commitment, the HN in Computing and Systems Development will:
1. Support students by providing professional, impartial advice and guidance to enable students to make considered career decisions before and during their studies to enable them to be prepared for their future employment and development by:
1.1. Identifying the skills needed for progression into employment,
1.2. Enhancing their existing employment prospects.
2. Provide subject-related resources and information on local, national and international labour markets;
3. Be responsive to the needs of employers in order to maximise students’ employability and career progression prospects;
4. Include study skills which will improve students’ academic writing and research capabilities to enable further study and facilitate career progression;
5. Support equality and diversity, and minimise barriers to learning, as described in the college’s Equality Policy which can be found on the website under Mission and Policies.
6. Ensure that employers play a key part in module content, course design and assessment criteria by formally seeking their views through employer questionnaires, work experience coordinators, meetings with industry groups, and the use of a specialist employer service researcher to help to ensure that the course content meets industry expectations and requirements.
7. Students are encouraged to work towards vendor specific Cisco and Microsoft certification and study towards these qualifications is supported within the curricula and the students personal development program.
8. Provide students with assistance in finding work placements which provide appropriate developmental opportunities and relate to current or intended career interests.
Appendix 1 HND Computing Curriculum Maps
A. Higher National Diploma in Computing: Computing Programme Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding Cognitive skills Applied skills Transferable skills
Unit 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
1 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
2 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
3 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
4 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
5 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
6 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
7 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
8 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
11 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
13 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
14 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
15 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
16 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
17 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
25 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
34 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
35 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
36 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
B. Higher National Diploma in Computing: Mapping of transferable employability and academic study skills
Skill
Set
Cognitive skills Intra-personal Skills Interpersonal Skills
Unit
Problem Solving
Critical Thinking/Analysis
Decision Making
Effective Communication
Digital Literacy
Numeracy
Creativity
Plan Prioritise
Self- Management
Independent learning
Self- Reflection
Team Work
Leadership
Cultural Awareness
Interpersonal Skills
1 X X X X X X X X
2 X X X X X X X X X X
3 X X X X X X X X X X X X
4 X X X X X X X X X X
5 X X X X X X X X
6 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
7 X X X X X X X X X
8 X X X X X X X X X X X
11 X X X X X X X
13 X X X X X X X X X X X X
14 X X X X X X X X X
15 X X X X X X X X X X X
16 X X X X X X X X X X X
17 X X X X X X X X X X X
25 X X X X X X X X X X X X
34 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
35 X X X X X X X X X
36 X X X X X X X X X X
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 can be found in the programme handbook.
Document History
1. 01/09/2010 Original specification produced 2. 14/02/2011 Updated document format 3. 12/09/2011 Updated document format 4. 12/07/2012 Updated document format and content 5. 13/09/2012 Updated to include more optional units
6. 12/6/2013 Updated document format and content 7. 12/7/2013 Updated document format and content 8. 15/7/2013 Updated module content 9. 22/8/2014 Updated Module content 10. 13/3/2015 Added new CSD Pathway and updated document content. 11. 19/5/2015 Updated sections 10 and 16 to clarify vendor offer, section 11 updated for
progression. 12. 18/8/2015 Updated section 13 to include 2
nd year entry criteria.
13. 30/01/2016 Checked against Public Information
14. 13/04/2016 Updates to 2016 offering 15. 06/07/1016 Updates to section 11 to reflect offering and section 12 environment 16. 13/04/2017 Updated assessment, curriculum map, GCSE and UCAS tariff sections 17. 16/08/2017 Minor changes to progression requirements 18. 10/11/2017 New program specification for RQF programme 19. 13/11/2017 Added FHEQ Learning outcome mappings 20. 14/11/2017 Clarified progression and qualification information
Programme Leader Martin Hemming
Web address
Date checked against public information
TBA
Specification Author Martin Hemming