AYN520 Integrated Issues in Professional Practice
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | AYN520 |
|---|---|
| Prerequisite(s): | AYN417 and AYN438. AYN438 can be studied in the same teaching period as AYN520 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2027, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | AYN520 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | AYN417 and AYN438. AYN438 can be studied in the same teaching period as AYN520 |
| Coordinator: | Stephen Marsden | s.marsden@qut.edu.au |
Overview
This capstone unit consolidates your learning from earlier units and prepares you for professional practice as an Accountant. Using a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, where you collaboratively solve open-ended, real-world problems, you will engage with complex, unstructured accounting scenarios that reflect the multi-disciplinary nature of the profession. Working in teams, you will research issues, gather and analyse information, and develop evidence-based solutions. The unit also develops your digital capabilities, including the use of accounting software. As a mastery-level unit in your degree, it draws together prior knowledge and skills to support your transition into your career, where critical thinking, technical competence, and professionalism are essential.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate and apply integrated, multidisciplinary knowledge to solve a range of real world accounting problems. [KS 1.1, HO 2.2]
- Make decisions and judgements to solve unstructured, multidisciplinary, client related accounting problems typically encountered in a professional practice. [HO 2.2]
- Collaborate effectively with others to explore, discuss and solve accounting related problems. [TS 4.2]
- Apply reflective thinking skills to analyse own learning and professional practice. [TS 4.1]
Content
In this capstone unit, you will explore advanced accounting concepts across five integrated modules of professional accounting practice. These include:
- Module 1: Business planning and structuring
- Module 2: Operations and transactions
- Module 3: Employment issues;
- Module 4: Reporting and assurance
- Module 5: Taxation
These modules reflect the complex, multi-disciplinary nature of accounting advisory work and are designed to deepen your theoretical and practical understanding. The unit also encourages critical engagement with accounting theory. Through this unit, you will continue to grow your proficiency in the core capabilities of an accounting professional, including discipline knowledge, critical thinking and judgement, self-reflection, and teamwork.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply advanced, integrated discipline and professional practice knowledge, including relevant research principles and methods, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge to investigate digitally enhanced business environments.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
3.2 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
4.2 Apply collaborative capabilities to work effectively in diverse teams and across complex, interdisciplinary business environments.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
5.2 Apply socially responsible and sustainability-focused thinking to analyse business issues and reflect on the broader impact of organisations in national and global contexts.
Learning Approaches
Teaching and learning strategies in this unit are designed to facilitate the aims and objectives of the unit. This capstone unit is based on a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model/approach. The unit adopts a 'less teaching, more learning' philosophy. You will focus on active problem-solving, rather than on technical content in your studies.
AYN520 takes a very practical, hands-on approach: you will work together in groups, discussing and solving real-world client problems. In AYN520, you will simulate the role of the professional advisor dealing with clients.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: verbal feedback in relation to individual participation
- Formal: written and verbal feedback in relation to the group's response to the PBL's
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment aims to support your achievement of the learning objectives for this Unit. It has been designed in order to allow you to both:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment); and
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Professional Practice Portfolio
Acting as professional advisors, you will work in groups to solve real, unstructured client accounting-related problems typically encountered by graduates entering the profession. Each fortnight, you will be presented with two problems, and during tutorials, in the presence of a facilitator acting as a client, your group will need to discuss these problems. The group’s interactions will be assessed by the facilitator. The group will research and solve these problems, providing written advice for one and an oral response (accompanied by a PowerPoint) during the scheduled tutorial for the other. Further details are provided on the Canvas site.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assessment item requires your attendance in your scheduled session.
This assessment item is a Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
This assessment item is based on teamwork and provides evidence of achievement of associated Unit Learning Outcomes and Course Learning Outcomes. Individual submissions/presentations will not be accepted.
The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.2), TS (4.2)
Assessment: Integrated Case Study
You will be required to individually complete an integrated case study. The integrated case study takes the place of the final exam. The case study requires you to review a client's Xero accounting data file and make appropriate end-of-year adjustments to this data file.
You will also be required to prepare an annual report for the client (which incorporates the external financial statements prepared in accordance with the AASB Accounting Standards), draft the client's income tax return, and prepare a tax reconciliation. Finally, you will be required to undertake a specific reflective task, which will be outlined in the case study itself.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.2), TS (4.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities in this unit.
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2027, Online
| Unit code: | AYN520 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | AYN417 and AYN438. AYN438 can be studied in the same teaching period as AYN520 |
Overview
This capstone unit consolidates your learning from earlier units and prepares you for professional practice as an Accountant. Using a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, where you collaboratively solve open-ended, real-world problems, you will engage with complex, unstructured accounting scenarios that reflect the multi-disciplinary nature of the profession. Working in teams, you will research issues, gather and analyse information, and develop evidence-based solutions. The unit also develops your digital capabilities, including the use of accounting software. As a mastery-level unit in your degree, it draws together prior knowledge and skills to support your transition into your career, where critical thinking, technical competence, and professionalism are essential.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate and apply integrated, multidisciplinary knowledge to solve a range of real world accounting problems. [KS 1.1, HO 2.2]
- Make decisions and judgements to solve unstructured, multidisciplinary, client related accounting problems typically encountered in a professional practice. [HO 2.2]
- Collaborate effectively with others to explore, discuss and solve accounting related problems. [TS 4.2]
- Apply reflective thinking skills to analyse own learning and professional practice. [TS 4.1]
Content
In this capstone unit, you will explore advanced accounting concepts across five integrated modules of professional accounting practice. These include:
- Module 1: Business planning and structuring
- Module 2: Operations and transactions
- Module 3: Employment issues;
- Module 4: Reporting and assurance
- Module 5: Taxation
These modules reflect the complex, multi-disciplinary nature of accounting advisory work and are designed to deepen your theoretical and practical understanding. The unit also encourages critical engagement with accounting theory. Through this unit, you will continue to grow your proficiency in the core capabilities of an accounting professional, including discipline knowledge, critical thinking and judgement, self-reflection, and teamwork.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply advanced, integrated discipline and professional practice knowledge, including relevant research principles and methods, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge to investigate digitally enhanced business environments.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
3.2 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
4.2 Apply collaborative capabilities to work effectively in diverse teams and across complex, interdisciplinary business environments.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
5.2 Apply socially responsible and sustainability-focused thinking to analyse business issues and reflect on the broader impact of organisations in national and global contexts.
Learning Approaches
Teaching and learning strategies in this unit are designed to facilitate the aims and objectives of the unit. This capstone unit is based on a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model/approach. The unit adopts a 'less teaching, more learning' philosophy. You will focus on active problem-solving, rather than on technical content in your studies.
AYN520 takes a very practical, hands-on approach: you will work together in groups, discussing and solving real-world client problems. In AYN520, you will simulate the role of the professional advisor dealing with clients.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: verbal feedback in relation to individual participation
- Formal: written and verbal feedback in relation to the group's response to the PBL's
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment aims to support your achievement of the learning objectives for this Unit. It has been designed in order to allow you to both:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment); and
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Professional Practice Portfolio
Acting as professional advisors, you will work in groups to solve real, unstructured client accounting-related problems typically encountered by graduates entering the profession. Each fortnight, you will be presented with two problems, and during tutorials, in the presence of a facilitator acting as a client, your group will need to discuss these problems. The group’s interactions will be assessed by the facilitator. The group will research and solve these problems, providing written advice for one and an oral response (accompanied by a PowerPoint) during the scheduled tutorial for the other. Further details are provided on the Canvas site.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assessment item requires your attendance in your scheduled session.
This assessment item is a Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
This assessment item is based on teamwork and provides evidence of achievement of associated Unit Learning Outcomes and Course Learning Outcomes. Individual submissions/presentations will not be accepted.
The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.2), TS (4.2)
Assessment: Integrated Case Study
You will be required to individually complete an integrated case study. The integrated case study takes the place of the final exam. The case study requires you to review a client's Xero accounting data file and make appropriate end-of-year adjustments to this data file.
You will also be required to prepare an annual report for the client (which incorporates the external financial statements prepared in accordance with the AASB Accounting Standards), draft the client's income tax return, and prepare a tax reconciliation. Finally, you will be required to undertake a specific reflective task, which will be outlined in the case study itself.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.2), TS (4.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities in this unit.
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2027, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | AYN520 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | AYN417 and AYN438. AYN438 can be studied in the same teaching period as AYN520 |
| Coordinator: | Stephen Marsden | s.marsden@qut.edu.au |
Overview
This capstone unit consolidates your learning from earlier units and prepares you for professional practice as an Accountant. Using a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, where you collaboratively solve open-ended, real-world problems, you will engage with complex, unstructured accounting scenarios that reflect the multi-disciplinary nature of the profession. Working in teams, you will research issues, gather and analyse information, and develop evidence-based solutions. The unit also develops your digital capabilities, including the use of accounting software. As a mastery-level unit in your degree, it draws together prior knowledge and skills to support your transition into your career, where critical thinking, technical competence, and professionalism are essential.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate and apply integrated, multidisciplinary knowledge to solve a range of real world accounting problems. [KS 1.1, HO 2.2]
- Make decisions and judgements to solve unstructured, multidisciplinary, client related accounting problems typically encountered in a professional practice. [HO 2.2]
- Collaborate effectively with others to explore, discuss and solve accounting related problems. [TS 4.2]
- Apply reflective thinking skills to analyse own learning and professional practice. [TS 4.1]
Content
In this capstone unit, you will explore advanced accounting concepts across five integrated modules of professional accounting practice. These include:
- Module 1: Business planning and structuring
- Module 2: Operations and transactions
- Module 3: Employment issues;
- Module 4: Reporting and assurance
- Module 5: Taxation
These modules reflect the complex, multi-disciplinary nature of accounting advisory work and are designed to deepen your theoretical and practical understanding. The unit also encourages critical engagement with accounting theory. Through this unit, you will continue to grow your proficiency in the core capabilities of an accounting professional, including discipline knowledge, critical thinking and judgement, self-reflection, and teamwork.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply advanced, integrated discipline and professional practice knowledge, including relevant research principles and methods, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge to investigate digitally enhanced business environments.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
3.2 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
4.2 Apply collaborative capabilities to work effectively in diverse teams and across complex, interdisciplinary business environments.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
5.2 Apply socially responsible and sustainability-focused thinking to analyse business issues and reflect on the broader impact of organisations in national and global contexts.
Learning Approaches
Teaching and learning strategies in this unit are designed to facilitate the aims and objectives of the unit. This capstone unit is based on a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model/approach. The unit adopts a 'less teaching, more learning' philosophy. You will focus on active problem-solving, rather than on technical content in your studies.
AYN520 takes a very practical, hands-on approach: you will work together in groups, discussing and solving real-world client problems. In AYN520, you will simulate the role of the professional advisor dealing with clients.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: verbal feedback in relation to individual participation
- Formal: written and verbal feedback in relation to the group's response to the PBL's
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment aims to support your achievement of the learning objectives for this Unit. It has been designed in order to allow you to both:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment); and
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Professional Practice Portfolio
Acting as professional advisors, you will work in groups to solve real, unstructured client accounting-related problems typically encountered by graduates entering the profession. Each fortnight, you will be presented with two problems, and during tutorials, in the presence of a facilitator acting as a client, your group will need to discuss these problems. The group’s interactions will be assessed by the facilitator. The group will research and solve these problems, providing written advice for one and an oral response (accompanied by a PowerPoint) during the scheduled tutorial for the other. Further details are provided on the Canvas site.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assessment item requires your attendance in your scheduled session.
This assessment item is a Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
This assessment item is based on teamwork and provides evidence of achievement of associated Unit Learning Outcomes and Course Learning Outcomes. Individual submissions/presentations will not be accepted.
The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.2), TS (4.2)
Assessment: Integrated Case Study
You will be required to individually complete an integrated case study. The integrated case study takes the place of the final exam. The case study requires you to review a client's Xero accounting data file and make appropriate end-of-year adjustments to this data file.
You will also be required to prepare an annual report for the client (which incorporates the external financial statements prepared in accordance with the AASB Accounting Standards), draft the client's income tax return, and prepare a tax reconciliation. Finally, you will be required to undertake a specific reflective task, which will be outlined in the case study itself.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.2), TS (4.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities in this unit.
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2027, Online
| Unit code: | AYN520 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | AYN417 and AYN438. AYN438 can be studied in the same teaching period as AYN520 |
Overview
This capstone unit consolidates your learning from earlier units and prepares you for professional practice as an Accountant. Using a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, where you collaboratively solve open-ended, real-world problems, you will engage with complex, unstructured accounting scenarios that reflect the multi-disciplinary nature of the profession. Working in teams, you will research issues, gather and analyse information, and develop evidence-based solutions. The unit also develops your digital capabilities, including the use of accounting software. As a mastery-level unit in your degree, it draws together prior knowledge and skills to support your transition into your career, where critical thinking, technical competence, and professionalism are essential.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate and apply integrated, multidisciplinary knowledge to solve a range of real world accounting problems. [KS 1.1, HO 2.2]
- Make decisions and judgements to solve unstructured, multidisciplinary, client related accounting problems typically encountered in a professional practice. [HO 2.2]
- Collaborate effectively with others to explore, discuss and solve accounting related problems. [TS 4.2]
- Apply reflective thinking skills to analyse own learning and professional practice. [TS 4.1]
Content
In this capstone unit, you will explore advanced accounting concepts across five integrated modules of professional accounting practice. These include:
- Module 1: Business planning and structuring
- Module 2: Operations and transactions
- Module 3: Employment issues;
- Module 4: Reporting and assurance
- Module 5: Taxation
These modules reflect the complex, multi-disciplinary nature of accounting advisory work and are designed to deepen your theoretical and practical understanding. The unit also encourages critical engagement with accounting theory. Through this unit, you will continue to grow your proficiency in the core capabilities of an accounting professional, including discipline knowledge, critical thinking and judgement, self-reflection, and teamwork.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply advanced, integrated discipline and professional practice knowledge, including relevant research principles and methods, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Leverage digital technologies, data-driven tools, technical and research skills to organise, interpret and extend discipline and professional practice knowledge to investigate digitally enhanced business environments.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate complex, real-world business problems by analysing, evaluating, and synthesising discipline and professional practice knowledge.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make evidence-based decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic responses to address real world business challenges.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
3.2 Use information and digital literacy skills to communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, using appropriate technologies and media for diverse purposes, audiences, and business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self- reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills to support continuous learning, adaptability and effective professional growth.
4.2 Apply collaborative capabilities to work effectively in diverse teams and across complex, interdisciplinary business environments.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate ethical reasoning and apply legal and governance principles to critically evaluate and respond to complex business decisions and practices.
5.2 Apply socially responsible and sustainability-focused thinking to analyse business issues and reflect on the broader impact of organisations in national and global contexts.
Learning Approaches
Teaching and learning strategies in this unit are designed to facilitate the aims and objectives of the unit. This capstone unit is based on a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model/approach. The unit adopts a 'less teaching, more learning' philosophy. You will focus on active problem-solving, rather than on technical content in your studies.
AYN520 takes a very practical, hands-on approach: you will work together in groups, discussing and solving real-world client problems. In AYN520, you will simulate the role of the professional advisor dealing with clients.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: verbal feedback in relation to individual participation
- Formal: written and verbal feedback in relation to the group's response to the PBL's
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment aims to support your achievement of the learning objectives for this Unit. It has been designed in order to allow you to both:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment); and
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Professional Practice Portfolio
Acting as professional advisors, you will work in groups to solve real, unstructured client accounting-related problems typically encountered by graduates entering the profession. Each fortnight, you will be presented with two problems, and during tutorials, in the presence of a facilitator acting as a client, your group will need to discuss these problems. The group’s interactions will be assessed by the facilitator. The group will research and solve these problems, providing written advice for one and an oral response (accompanied by a PowerPoint) during the scheduled tutorial for the other. Further details are provided on the Canvas site.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assessment item requires your attendance in your scheduled session.
This assessment item is a Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
This assessment item is based on teamwork and provides evidence of achievement of associated Unit Learning Outcomes and Course Learning Outcomes. Individual submissions/presentations will not be accepted.
The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.2), TS (4.2)
Assessment: Integrated Case Study
You will be required to individually complete an integrated case study. The integrated case study takes the place of the final exam. The case study requires you to review a client's Xero accounting data file and make appropriate end-of-year adjustments to this data file.
You will also be required to prepare an annual report for the client (which incorporates the external financial statements prepared in accordance with the AASB Accounting Standards), draft the client's income tax return, and prepare a tax reconciliation. Finally, you will be required to undertake a specific reflective task, which will be outlined in the case study itself.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.2), TS (4.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities in this unit.