IFQ551 Computer Systems Fundamentals


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Unit Outline: Session-3A 2024, QUT Online, Online

Unit code:IFQ551
Credit points:6
Equivalent:IFN551
Anti-requisite:IFN503
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of the teaching period.

Overview

This unit introduces the core concepts of a computer system, in particular how modern computer systems work, how they are structured, and how they operate. You will work with simulation software that allows you will build your own small computer system. The unit teaches you how to work effectively with modern computer environments and gain sufficient knowledge to be able to adapt to the evolution of computer systems in the future. The unit provides the necessary knowledge and skills for further study in areas such as networking, security, data science and software development.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

  1. Explain the principles, history and recent development of computer systems, including hardware and software.
  2. Evaluate the suitability of different computing environments for particular problems.
  3. Design, build and configure simple computer systems.
  4. Research solutions to computing systems problems.

Content

  • To understand the basics of number systems; binary and hexadecimal, in particular
  • To understand the Input-Process-Output model
  • Computer system components: hardware, software, data
  • Central Processing Unit: arithmetic/logic unit, control unit, interface unit
  • To understand the communication components

Learning Approaches

This unit engages you in learning through an active, artefact-driven set of practical exercises. Each module includes theoretical content and practical activities. The content will motivate, introduce, demonstrate and roadmap computer technologies and associated concepts. Practical materials and activities provide a forum where you can apply your emerging knowledge and skills within problem-based scenarios. Workbooks guide your learning through exercises involving research and practical problem solving using different computer technologies. The small project will allow you to undertake a deeper study of computer technologies.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

You will receive progressive feedback through the unit on your modules and your project.Workbook feedback will use criteria reference assessment forms and written comments. All exercises and workbooks will be moderated before assessment is finalised.

Assessment

Overview

There are two parts to the Assessment.

The first part is in the form of an Timed Online Test to assess contents from Modules 1 and 2 of the Unit.

The second part is in form of a major Assignment to assess the contents of Modules  3 and 4 of the Unit.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Timed OnlineTest

This assessment item is a timed online test.

It assesses the contents covered in Modules 1 and 2.

Weight: 50
Length: 60 minutes from starting time
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): Week 3
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2

Assessment: Assignment

A project comprising the design / construction / configuration of a small novel computer system using a mixture of computer and networking technologies.

 

Weight: 50
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): Week 5
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to engage in learning and assessment at QUT with honesty, transparency and fairness. Maintaining academic integrity means upholding these principles and demonstrating valuable professional capabilities based on ethical foundations.

Failure to maintain academic integrity can take many forms. It includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, and submitting an assessment item completed by another person (e.g. contract cheating). It can also include providing your assessment to another entity, such as to a person or website.

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.

Further details of QUT’s approach to academic integrity are outlined in the Academic integrity policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Breaching QUT’s Academic integrity policy is regarded as student misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Resources

Library and web-based information will be used. There is no prescribed text book for this unit.
PLEASE NOTE: As part of this unit you will be required to download a computer system simulation environment.

Risk Assessment Statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit. You will be made aware of evacuation procedures and assembly areas in the first few lectures. In the event of a fire alarm sounding, or on a lecturer's instruction, you should leave the room and assemble in the designated area which will be indicated to you. You should be conscious of your health and safety at all times whilst on campus or in the field.