Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	IT Skills & Software Tools for Manangers
Module Code	MT118
School	DCUBS
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: colm bennett Semester 2: colm bennett Autumn: colm bennett
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module focuses on how information technology tools can assist and support the individual manager in solving business and managerial problems. The module aims to give students a solid basic understanding of the personal computer, related peripherals and networks including the internet and world wide web. The module also gives students a thorough grounding in the use of common business software tools including spreadsheets, word processing and presentation. The module focuses particularly on using visualisation to effectively communicate data sets. Students will apply these principles and tools in solving business or managerial problems.The module will be delivered as a series of lectures over the semester supported by a series of computer laboratory sessions. The laboratory sessions will cover file management, spreadsheets, document and presentation preparation and visualisation tools.

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain the basic operations of computers and information systems
2. Utilise applications to create spreadsheets and to write and format business reports
3. Use applications in an efficient and professional manner.
4. Solve business problems using IT tools (incl. spreadsheets).
5. Apply the basic principles in effectively communicating data visually.
6. Utilise online tools to both collect and present data sets.

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lecture	22	A formal lecture which typically presents the essential ideas and core concepts pointing students towards resources where they can get further information. Students are expected to prepare for each lecture by, for example, reading materials suggested by the lecturer
Independent learning time	78	Students are expected to study the recommended textbooks and journal articles, and are encouraged to read further around the topics in each module. Students are also expected to spend time learning how to use information systems and analytical tools. This may take place at home or in the DCU labs. Such private study will include preparation for specific classes, and other study related to assignments or to consolidate the material from lectures
Assignment	25	Study for, and work on the test, labwork, and project
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Introduction and Context.
Ubiquity of computers, information and systems.Data vs Information.

Computer Basics.
Hardware and software The PC and peripherals Operating systems File management and backup Networks, internet Connectivity: wireless, bluetooth, RFID, World wide web, browsers, email, social networks.

IT Tools for Business.
Document production eg. Word. Presenting information eg. Powerpoint. Data analysis using Spreadsheets eg. Excel.

Introduction to Networks.
Networks, and the Internet.

Data Collection.
Sources, validity, processing, etc..

Data Visualisation.
Introduction, history, basic principles. Specific data sets, animation, interaction. Online visualisation tools.

Introduction to Information, Data, and Systems.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	40%	Examination Weight	60%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Multiple choice questions	Questions to assess knowledge and application of tools	10%	n/a
In Class Test	A test in the computer lab	10%	n/a
Assignment	An assignment to find, combine, and present data from multiple data sources	20%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List

Paul Bocij, Andrew Greasley, Simon Hickie,: 2008, Business Information Systems: Technology, Development and Management for the e-Business,, 4th, 1,2 3,4 5,6, 7, 13, Prentice Hall, London,
R. Kelly Rainer Jr, Efraim Turban, Richard E. Potter: 2004, Introduction to Information Technology, 1st, Wiley,

Other Resources

5981, Website, 0, Students will be expected to read news items relating to Information Systems on websites such as www.cnet.com,

Array

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