The aims of this module are:

To develop in students an understanding of Information Systems in business and how they assist management decision – making for the achievement of Organisational Objectives and improved performance

The knowledge, understanding and cognitive, practical and transferable skills which a student is expected to be able to demonstrate after studying this module is expressed in the following learning outcomes. These are grouped under appropriate syllabus headings.

Purpose and Scope of Information Systems (90 Hours / Six Weeks)

By the end of this Syllabus Topic the student will be able to:

Evaluate the need for and use of Information in Organisations

Discuss the Contribution and Limitations of a Management

Information System (MIS) and Decision Support System (DSS) as aids to improving Business Decision – Making and Performance

Evaluate the future impact of Telecommunications, Expert Systems, Database Technologies, Decision

Support Tools on MIS and Organisational Performance 

Demonstrate a critical awareness of the Data necessary to support MIS

By the end of this Syllabus Topic the student will be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of the Techniques and Procedures for the Management of an Information Systems Project

Demonstrate an understanding of the Planning and Control Mechanisms for an Information Systems Project

Understand the Management of End User Computing and an Information Systems Department

By the end of this Syllabus Topic the student will be able to:

Critically Evaluate Soft Approaches to Systems Development - 

SDLC and RAD

Prototyping

Analysis and Design

Systems Implementation

CASE tools and platforms

By the end of this Syllabus Topic the student will be able to:

Explain the requirements of the Data Protection Act 1984

Determine areas of concern for the Security and Control of Information Systems_ Hardware, Software, Risk Assessment

Describe the nature and types of Management and Application Controls and evaluate their Strengths and Limitations.

Assessment

Achievement of these Learning Outcomes will be reflected in student responses to a 
THREE HOUR OPEN BOOK Examination.

Examination Structure

Five Compulsory Questions

Indicative Reading
Current Editions of the following Textbooks are recommended.
 
Textbooks:

Journals:

Financial Accountant

Journal of Information Systems

Computer Journal

www.computerweekly.co.uk

www.bized.co.ac.uk