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Level 3 - Open Systems in Computing

Level 3

Level 3, Unit 1 - Computational Thinking (10 credits)

1. understand the computational problem solving process.

2. be able to apply number systems and logic to computing problems.

3. analyse problems to create computational solutions.
1.1 consult with relevant industry professionals and academics to improve solutions. 2.1 use mathematical functions in practical algorithms. 3.1 find ways of making computational solutions more efficient.
1.2 iteratively refine solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. 2.2 explain how digital computers can work with a full range of real numbers. 3.2 analyse complex problems into simpler related components.
1.3 organise data in terms of logical patterns. 2.3 analyse expressions in boolean logic to simplify them. 3.3 work collaboratively and persistently to achieve a good computational solution.
1.4 use multiple algorithms to solve complex problems. 2.4 explain the difference between packed and unpacked binary coded decimal. 3.4 explain computational solutions in terms of sequential automated steps.
1.5 demonstrate how abstractions represent complex data structures and instructions. 2.5 explain the relationship between binary and hexadecimal numbers. 3.5 identify practical problems suitable for a computational solution.

Level 3, Unit 2 - Principles of Software Engineering (10 credits)

1. understand the role of the target audience.

2. understand strategies for maintaining quality.

3. adopt suitable methods to match circumstances.
1.1 describe methods for providing feedback to users from errors in the code. 2.1 explain and demonstrate the importance of courage and persistence in solving problems. 3.1 describe an open source community project and its methods.
1.2 receive user feedback and act positively. 2.2 explain a sound testing strategy. 3.2 compare formal and agile methods.
1.3 describe the rationale for release early, release often. 2.3 demonstrate quality strategies through small scale projects. 3.3 explain the different demands of large scale and small scale projects.
1.4 compare the user role in a range of software development models. 2.4 establish clear communication channels with critical reviewers. 3.4 specify a documentation strategy.
1.5 explain principles of user interface design. 2.5 identify design techniques to reduce risk. 3.5 compare procedural and object oriented programming.

Level 3, Unit 3 - Delivering a Software Project (10 credits)

1. plan a suitable project.

2. carry out a significant practical software project.

3. communicate project outcomes to others.
1.1 meet deadlines. 2.1 show courage and determination to overcome problems. 3.1 use IT tools to enhance communication.
1.2 present the proposal to critical experts. 2.2 produce source code that has effective embedded documentation. 3.2 analyse issues arising and establish priorities for resolution.
1.3 identify an area of interest and scope the project. 2.3 test code regularly involving third parties. 3.3 make a final presentation to a critical audience.
1.4 make modifications as a result of feedback. 2.4 use logical techniques to debug code. 3.4 gather opinions through peer review.
1.5 agree and adopt the software development method. 2.5 produce substantial code that works effectively. 3.5 provide regular updates on progress to a mentor.

Level 3, Unit 4 - Open Systems and Community Development (10 credits)

1. understand the process of community development.

2. understand licensing and intellectual property.

3. understand commercial models for software development.
1.1 explain the importance of distributed revision control systems in community software development. 2.1 describe the advantages and disadvantages of software patents. 3.1 describe the fremium model for software development.
1.2 explain the relationships between commercial and volunteer interests in a software development community. 2.2 describe and explain the freedoms associated with free and open source software. 3.2 describe the software as a service model.
1.3 compare and contrast the processes of software development communities. 2.3 explain the terms trademark, copyleft, creative commons, and public domain. 3.3 describe an advertising model to support software development.
1.4 describe Sourceforge and its role in community development. 2.4 analyse the effects of digital technologies on the enforcement of intellectual property rights. 3.4 describe the perpetual license model for software development.
1.5 explain the principles of the Open Source Way. 2.5 explain the relationship between copyright and licensing. 3.5 describe the dual licensing model for software development.

Level 3, Unit 5 - Computer Systems Management (10 credits)

1. set up systems.

2. support system storage and security.

3. maintain systems.

4. understand key internet systems.
1.1 solve problems in systems setup and configuration. 2.1 write a risk assessment for system security including passwords and malware. 3.1 install and remove applications. 4.1 explain the role of an internet service provider.
1.2 customise the display to personal preference. 2.2 devise and implement a backup strategy. 3.2 set up cron jobs to automate regular procedures. 4.2 explain the importance of TCP/IP.
1.3 install and set up an operating system. 2.3 describe a range of storage methods and their strengths and weaknesses. 3.3 provide effective support for system users. 4.3 describe the terms HTML, W3C and HTTP.
1.4 set up network connections. 2.4 set up and understand how to customise a firewall for network connection. 3.4 set up a secure virtual connection to manage a system from a remote location. 4.4 explain the effects of proprietary standards and lock-in.
1.5 set and customise boot sequence and options. 2.5 format and partition storage devices. 3.5 install software updates and dependencies. 4.5 explain the function of a web server.

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