Learner Guide

Applied and Computer

Faculty:
Sciences
Information and
Department: Communication
Technology (ICT)
Diploma in Information
Course:
Systems (DI0600)
Information Systems 3.2
Title:
(AIITY3A) Learner Guide
Compiled By: Mr. R. da Rocha

Year and Semester: 2021 – Semester 1

Version 1.1
Table of Contents
1. A Word of Welcome........................................................................................................................................... 4
2. Module Information ............................................................................................................................................ 4
2.1. Purpose of the module ............................................................................................................................... 4
2.2. HEQSF level and Credit Value ................................................................................................................... 4
2.3. Intended Learning Outcomes ..................................................................................................................... 5
2.4. Critical Cross-Field Outcomes .................................................................................................................... 5
3. Course Structure (DI0600) ................................................................................................................................ 6
4. Facilitator Details ............................................................................................................................................... 7
5. Administrator details (Vanderbijlpark campus) .................................................................................................. 7
6. Learning Materials and Resources .................................................................................................................... 7
6.1. Prescribed Books, Readings and Additional Resources ............................................................................ 7
6.2. Learning Management System (VUTela) ................................................................................................... 8
6.2.1. Changing your email address on VUTela ........................................................................................... 8
7. Assessment Strategy....................................................................................................................................... 10
7.1. Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 10
7.2. Test and Exam Regulations ..................................................................................................................... 10
7.3. Optional Assessments.............................................................................................................................. 11
7.4. Sick Assessments .................................................................................................................................... 11
7.5. The Completion of Assessments .............................................................................................................. 11
7.5.1. Approaching a case study/questions and answers ........................................................................... 11
7.5.2. Approaching a presentation ............................................................................................................. 12
7.5.3. Approaching a theoretical assignment ............................................................................................. 12
7.5.4. Technical requirements for assignment writing ................................................................................ 12
7.6. Plagiarism ................................................................................................................................................ 14
7.7. Referencing .............................................................................................................................................. 14
8. How to Study ................................................................................................................................................... 16
8.1. Teaching Strategy .................................................................................................................................... 16
8.2. Approaches for Success .......................................................................................................................... 16
8.2.1. Pre-reading ...................................................................................................................................... 16
8.2.2. Note-taking ....................................................................................................................................... 17
8.2.3. Participation ..................................................................................................................................... 17
8.2.4. Instruction......................................................................................................................................... 17
8.2.5. Class attendance.............................................................................................................................. 17
8.3. Action Words ............................................................................................................................................ 17
9. Learning Activities and Assessment Mapping ................................................................................................. 21
9.1. Learning Activities and Assessments for the Module ............................................................................... 21

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 9.1.1. Covering of the Theory Topics ......................................................................................................... 21
9.1.2. Working through the Practical Lessons ............................................................................................ 21
9.1.3. Theory Assignments......................................................................................................................... 21
9.1.4. Theory Semester Test 1 ................................................................................................................... 21
9.1.5. Theory Semester Test 2 ................................................................................................................... 21
9.1.6. Practical Assignment(s).................................................................................................................... 21
9.2. Mapping of Learning Activities and Assessments .................................................................................... 22
9.3. Calculation of the final mark ..................................................................................................................... 23
10. Work Schedule ............................................................................................................................................. 24

List of Tables
Table 1: Course Technical Details ............................................................................................................................. 5
Table 2: DI0600 Course Structure .............................................................................................................................. 6
Table 3: Facilitator Details .......................................................................................................................................... 7
Table 4: Prescribed Books, Readings and Additional Resources .............................................................................. 8
Table 5: Technical Requirements for Assignments .................................................................................................. 13
Table 6: Mapping of Learning Activities to ILOs ....................................................................................................... 22
Table 7: Mapping of Learning Activities to CCFOs ................................................................................................... 23
Table 8: Calculation of the final mark ....................................................................................................................... 23

List of Figures
Figure 1: HEQSF Academic Journey ......................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 2: Changing your VUTela email address......................................................................................................... 9

Version History
Version
Date Updated Notes
Number

v1.0 2020/02/24 Initial release

v1.1 2021/04/12 Removed work schedule due to extended registrations

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 1. A WORD OF WELCOME

The Department of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) welcomes you as a learner to the Faculty of
Applied and Computer Sciences (FACS) and the Vaal University of Technology (VUT). We hope that the time spent
together during the completion of this module will be both fruitful and enjoyable

The aim of this learner guide is to direct your studies for this module in such a way that you always will know what is
expected of you, when it is expected, as well as where the subject fits into our general program of study. General
class conduct is also discussed. We hope that this will help you to feel more in control of your studies, as the aim of
the learner guide is to clarify both your expectations and those of the lecturer.

The department strives towards integration of existing knowledge with new knowledge and to afford the learner the
following graduate attributes:
• Think logically, critically and creatively
• Visual, presentation and language skills
• Problem solving and reflection skills
• Gain knowledge of Human Resource Management discipline, the field and the industry in order to
• Make a positive contribution to the field once you have completed your studies

2. MODULE INFORMATION

2.1. PURPOSE OF THE MODULE

The module Information Systems 3.2 (AIITY3A) is designed to help you progress your database knowledge further.
It builds on what you have learnt in all the preceding information system modules you have completed and focus on
learning about and emphasising the importance of good quality data and the difference between data and database
administration.

This module also equips you with the knowledge and practical skills required to work within the Oracle Developer
integrated environment where forms and reports are designed and deployed for distributed environments within large
organizations.

2.2. HEQSF LEVEL AND CREDIT VALUE

The Higher Education Qualification and Sub-Framework (HEQSF) is framework that governs qualifications and how
you can move from one to another (this is called articulation – a big word for a simple concept) in South Africa. This
framework applies even if you decide to move from one institution to another. For the diploma in Information
Technology, your academic journey from one level to another would look as follows:

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 Matric Diploma Advanced Postgraduate Master's PhD
Diploma Diploma Degree

• NQF Level 4 • NQF Level 6 • NQF Level 7 • NQF Level 8 • NQF Level 9 • NQF Level 10
• This is where (though you may • We hope to see
you came from. find some of you here!
Congrats! You your subjects
worked hard! are on level 7)
• This is what
you are
working
towards!

Figure 1: HEQSF Academic Journey

What are National Qualification Framework (NQF) levels you may be asking? We won’t get very technical here, but
it is simply the level where a qualification (and modules within a qualification) sits on when progressing through your
academic journey to the highest qualification, and these levels help your lecturers design their curricula to help you
to reach outcomes, earn your qualifications and hopefully learn something along the way.

For this module, the very technical information of the module looks as follows:

Table 1: Course Technical Details

Course Diploma in Information Technology

Course Code DI0600
Module Code AIITY3A
Module Name Information Systems 3.2
Year Level Year 3
Semester Level Semester 1
Credit Value 15 credits
Notional Hours 150 hours
NQF Level 7
Prerequisites AIITY2A, AIBPY2A & AIBTY2A

2.3. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

The intended learning outcomes (ILOs) of a module tell you, as a student at VUT and this course and module, what
YOU will have achieved once you have successfully completed this module. For Information Systems 3.2 you should
have achieved the following outcomes:

• Apply the principles of system analysis, design and implementation to IT database systems (ILO1)
• Demonstrate the ability to apply the principles of data communication technologies and operating systems
in order to implement IT systems in a distributed environment (ILO2)
• Understanding the effects of IT on business (ILO3)
• Apply knowledge to develop a working prototype system in an Oracle environment (ILO4)

2.4. CRITICAL CROSS-FIELD OUTCOMES

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes (CCFOs) are the qualities that we would like to develop within our students,
REGARDLESS of the discipline, i.e., all students developed in these areas, regardless of whether you are doing your

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diploma in IT, or whether you are doing your diploma in fine arts. As an IT student, we aim to help you develop your
capacity as a lifelong learner in the following areas:

• identify and solve problems (CCFO1)

• work in a team (CCFO2)
• organize and manage themselves (CCFO3)
• collect, analyse and evaluate information (CCFO4)
• communicate effectively (CCFO5)
• use science and technology (CCFO6)
• recognize problem solving contexts (CCFO7)
• develop entrepreneurial opportunities (CCFO8)

3. COURSE STRUCTURE (DI0600)

Below you will find the structure for the Diploma in Information Technology. Remember, when there is a prerequisite
subject, then you will need to pass all the prerequisites to able to register that module. Focus and time management
is key to having a fulfilling and successful experience during your time at VUT!

Table 2: DI0600 Course Structure

Year 1
Semester Subject code Module Prerequisites
AIITX1A Information Systems 1.1 none
ASDSX1A Development Software 1.1 none
ASPRX1A Programming Logic 1.1 none
S1
EISSX1A System Software 1.1 none
BBENA1A Entrepreneurship 1 none
HKCOX1A Applied Communication 1.1 none
AIITY1A Information Systems 1.2 AIITX1A
ASDSY1A Development Software 1.2 ASDSX1A
ASPRY1A Programming Logic 1.2 ASPRX1A
S2 BAASY1A Accounting Skills 1.2 none
EISSY1A System Software 1.2 EISSX1A
HKCOY1A Applied Communication 1.2 none
HLISL1A IT Skills: Cyber Law none

Year 2
Semester Subject code Module Prerequisites
AIITX2A Information Systems 2.1 AIITY1A
AIBPX2A Business Analysis 2.1 (SQL) AIITY1A & ASDSY1A
AIBTX2A Business Analysis 2.1 (Theory) AIITY1A & ASDSY1A
S1 AIWEX2A Web Management 2.1 AIITY1A & ASDSY1A
ASDSX2A Development Software 2.1 ASDSY1A
EISSX2A System Software 2.1 EISSY1CA
HKCOX2A Applied Communication 2.1 HKCOX1A & HKCOY1A
AIITY2A Information Systems 2.2 AIITX2C
S2
AIBPY2A Business Analysis 2.2 (PL/SQL) AIBPX2A & AIBTX2A

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 AIBTY2A Business Analysis 2.2 (Theory) AIBPX2A & AIBTX2A
AIWEY2A Web Management 2.2 AIWEX2A
ASDSY2A Development Software 2.2 ASDSX2A
EISSY2A System Software 2.2 EISSX2A
HKCOY2A Applied Communication 2.1 HKCOX1A & HKCOY1A

Year 3 (You get to choose here!)

Semester Subject code Module Prerequisites
AIBUX3A Business Analysis 3.1 AIBPY2A, AIBTY2A &AIITY2A
S1 AIITX3A Information Systems 3.1 AIITY2A, AIBPY2A & AIBTY2A
AIITY3A Information Systems 3.2 AIITY2A, AIBPY2A & AIBTY2A
S2 AIBUY3A Business Analysis 3.2 AIBUX3A
OR
AIBUX3A Business Analysis 3.1 AIBPY2A, AIBTY2A & AIITY2A
S1 ASDSX3A Development Software 3.1 AIBPY2A, AIBTY2A & ASDSY2A
ASDSY3A Development Software 3.2 AIBPY2A, AIBTY2A & ASDSY2A
S2 AIBUY3A Business Analysis 3.2 AIBUX3A

4. FACILITATOR DETAILS

The contact details of your facilitator are as follows:

Table 3: Facilitator Details

Facilitator Campus Office Office Phone Email Consultation Hours

Mr. R. da Rocha Vanderbijlpark T206 (016)950-6951 [email protected] Will be given
Mrs. H. van Rooyen Vanderbijlpark TBA TBA [email protected] Will be given

5. ADMINISTRATOR DETAILS (VANDERBIJLPARK CAMPUS)

The Department of Information and Communication Technology’s administrator details are as follows:

Name: Ms. TO Rikhotso

Telephone: (016)950-9605
Email: [email protected]

Enquiries concerning your registration or any other aspect of administration (e.g. exemption for a subject, academic
record, etc.) must be addressed to the department administrator in T107.

6. LEARNING MATERIALS AND RESOURCES

6.1. PRESCRIBED BOOKS, READINGS AND ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

The following learning materials and resources will be used and referenced throughout the semester:

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 Table 4: Prescribed Books, Readings and Additional Resources

Modern Database Management, 11th Edition

Prescribed Theory Textbook
By Hoffer, Ramesh and Topi.
Guide to Oracle 10g from Cengage Course Technology
Prescribed Practical Textbook
By Morrison, Morrison and Conrad.
• Tutorial videos on VUTela and YouTube
Additional Resources • Additional practical notes on VUTela
• Practical chapter slides on VUTela

6.2. LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (VUTELA)

VUTela, VUT’s learning management system (LMS), will be used to inform students of events, tests and important
announcements and to distribute assignments and/or tests to students. In addition to this, supplementary exercises
will also be available through the VUTela and your lecturer. The student is expected to be able to log in to VUTela
and access these assessments / tests and be able to upload files required to answer the test/assignments on VUTela.
The student is responsible to become proficient in this. Soft copies of assignments posted on VUTela will be subject
to testing to ensure the student has submitted his or her own work and is not committing plagiarism.

6.2.1. Changing your email address on VUTela

By default, your email address on VUTela is set to your student email address. If you would like to receive notifications
of any announcements, uploads and assignments, you need to change the default email address to your preferred
email address (you could leave it as your student VUT email, or your personal email address from Yahoo, Gmail,
etc.). To do this, please look at the follow these steps:

1. Click on the down arrow next to your name in the right-hand top corner of the screen.

2. Click on settings on the drop-down menu.

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 Figure 2: Changing your VUTela email address

3. Then Click on Personal Information, then click on Edit Personal Information.

4. Change your email address to the address you use daily. Communications are sent to this email address,
so make sure it is correct, so that you can receive important notifications and announcements.

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 7. ASSESSMENT STRATEGY

7.1. INTRODUCTION

This subject will be presented from an outcomes-based learning perspective. You will note that the learning material
and assessment methods have all been aligned with the outcomes-based learning system. This means that on
completing this subject you, the learner, must be able to do certain things in the workplace. In order to be a successful
learner in an outcomes-based education system, you will be required to make a paradigm shift in your thinking and
approach to your studies.

Assessments takes place on a continuous basis by means of a variety of methods and may include (but is not limited
to) the following:
• Active participation in class discussions
• Formal assignments
• Group assignments
• Class tests
• Practical presentations
• Debate or roleplays
• Reflective essays
• Software projects

7.2. TEST AND EXAM REGULATIONS

The test and exam regulations of VUT, whether your subject is exam or CASS based are as follows:

• Candidates must not accept nor write a question paper if the sealed container thereof is not opened in front
of them at the examination venue.
• UNLESS INSTRUCTED OTHERWISE, you are not allowed to have any books, notes, paper nor any other
stationery items, except that which is issued to you or items such as calculators and specified drawing
instruments which are required for answering certain papers, in your possession in the examination room.
We regard items in your pockets, pencil case or under and around your desk as in possession. Notes or
drawings on any of your body parts are strictly forbidden. Items not allowed in the examination room must
be left outside or handed over to the presiding officer. Only one calculator of the type indicated on the
examination paper, will be allowed. Data in the memory of programmable calculators must be cleared, unless
otherwise stated on the examination paper.
• Cellular phones, iPads, tablets or any other data storage devices must be switched off in and during exams.
• All work must be handed in before you leave the examination venue. If you do not want any part of your work
to be examined, draw a line through it.
• Write neatly and clearly, using both sides of paper. Leave margins for use by examiner.
• Clearly write your student number, which appears on your student card, in the space provided. Your number
must also be written at the top right-hand corner of each loose sheet of writing paper, squared paper or
drawing paper.
• You need not start each new answer on a fresh page of the answer book. After completing an answer, draw
a line across the page; then at the beginning of your new answer, write the number of the question as given
on the question paper. Keep the answers to sub-sections of a question together; indicate the break between
sub-sections by leaving a space or drawing a short line.

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 • Read the questions carefully and calmly and answer only what is asked of you. Write legibly and set out your
work systematically; marks will be deducted for bad handwriting, untidy work and poor spelling. Irrelevant
answers and “padding” will be ignored by the examiner. On completing the paper, read through your answers
critically and where necessary, make neat corrections.
• You may not, under any circumstances, communicate with another candidate or seek outside assistance.
• You will render yourself liable to disqualification if you address personal remarks to the examiner. The writing
or drawing of any offensive matter on examination material supplied to you will disqualify you.
• You are not allowed to leave the examination room without the permission of the presiding officer. Only if
you have a valid reason, will you be allowed to leave the examination room temporarily under supervision of
an authorized person.
• The explanation of examination questions may be asked or will be given. Make your own assumptions, write
it down and continue with answering the question.
• The presiding officer may disqualify any candidate for irregularities or unsatisfactory conduct.
• No borrowing of tipex, pencils, erasers, rulers, calculators or other items, from other students are allowed
because it breaks the student’s concentration.

7.3. OPTIONAL ASSESSMENTS

• Students are given a 2nd assessment for the final project as it contributes the highest weight to the year mark.
This is formally noted on the work schedule.
• There are no reassessments for the theoretical portion of the module.

7.4. SICK ASSESSMENTS

• Any student who misses a semester test for a valid, acceptable reason, for example sickness, and who
provides acceptable proof of this, will be allowed to write a special assessment for the test missed.
• It is the student’s responsibility to contact his or her lecturer and inform them why they missed the
assessment and submit proof of this, in the case of sickness, a doctor’s sick note.
• This proof must be submitted to the lecturer within 7 days of the assessment missed.
• The lecturer will inform all concerned students of the date, time and venue of the scheduled assessment,
which will be no later than 10 university class days after the assessment missed by the student.

7.5. THE COMPLETION OF ASSESSMENTS

The following section describes the way in which various types of assessments should be approached as well as a
discussion of the technical requirements for written assignments.

7.5.1. Approaching a case study/questions and answers

• Read the questions pertaining to the case study carefully and then read through the case, highlighting what
you feel are the main elements of the case presented.
• Do not rewrite the case study or a textbook when answering the questions. Use the theory only to support
your analysis and/or argument.
• It is important to link your answer to existing theories, models and practices through the integration of the
theory and the information provided in the case.

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 • The motivation of your answer/analysis must be linked to existing theory, models and practices and must be
supported with references to the relevant literature.
• The format for a case study/questions and answers are discussed below:

o Cover page of the ICT department (individual or group, depending on the assessment Table of
contents.
o Introduction on the topic.
o Content of the paper (Please write out each question and then discuss the answer).
o Conclusion.
o List of References (which adheres to the VUT guidelines).
o Adhere to the technical correctness and technical requirements discussed in the learner guide.

7.5.2. Approaching a presentation

Presentations must be relevant to the theme/topic for that class. The presentations are of a practical nature – it could
be something that the class can “do” in order to apply the theory to practice. In other words, the lecturer and at times
the learners (in groups) may use case studies, games, exercises or role-plays in order to demonstrate the application
of a topic or an element of that topic. A presentation rubric will be provided and as well as discussed in class.

Should you be required to do a presentation, it should include:

• A brief introduction on the topic
• A discussion relevant to the topic or specific elements of the topic (This can be in the form of case studies,
theory, games, exercises, role-plays, debates, etc.).
• A brief conclusion in which the relevance of the presentation is linked to the topic.
• A hard copy of the presentation must be submitted.

7.5.3. Approaching a theoretical assignment

Theoretical assignments consist of a written assignment based on a theoretical discussion of a specific theme/topic.
The purpose of a theory (research) assignment is to expand the extent and depth of your knowledge to enable you
to approach subject literature critically and scientifically. The content of the paper must indicate that you have
consulted a wide range of literature, but also that you have the necessary insight about the theme.

The format for a theory assignment is discussed below:

• Cover page of the ICT department (individual or group, depending on the assessment).
• Table of contents.
• Introduction on the topic.
• Content of the paper.
• Conclusion.
• Reference list (which adheres to the VUT guidelines).
• Appendices (if applicable).
• Adhere to the technical correctness and technical requirements discussed in the learner guide.

7.5.4. Technical requirements for assignment writing

All formal assignments handed in for assessment purposes must be typed. The requirements are as follows:

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 Table 5: Technical Requirements for Assignments

Paper size A4 size (210mm x 297mm) should be of good quality and enough opacity for normal
reading. Preferably white paper.
Justification All text should be justified, except for the list of references which is justified to the left.
Line spacing 1½ line spacing throughout the text – does not apply to tables and figures.
Margins • Top margin: 25mm
• Left and bottom margin: 40mm
• Right margin: 25mm
Typeface Arial.
Font size • 12pt for the main text.
• Can be smaller for tables and figures (no smaller than 8pt) and larger for chapter
headings (14pt).
• Sample:
This is the body of the text. It is formatted in Arial size 12.

Headings and Sub- Headings should be formatted in Arial size 14 and should be bolded and sentence
headings case. Subheadings are Arial size 12 and bolded. Numbering should be standard and
consistent. Sample:

1. Heading 1
a. Subheading 1
This is the body of the text. It is formatted in Arial size 12.
This text is using 1.5 line spacing.
Page Numbers • The title page is not numbered.
• The first page of the text is numbered 1 to the end of the bibliography.
• Annexures are numbered separately i.e. (Annexure A – 1, 2, 3 etc., Annexure B –
1, 2, 3, etc.)
Bullets • Lists of information can be bulleted.
• Be consistent and do not incorporate more than 3 types of bullets.
Language • Use English (UK or SA) and not American spelling.
• Keep sentences short and concise; use the simplest word that conveys the correct
meaning.
• Do not use the personal form (I, we, the author): rather use passive sentence
construction.
• The text should not include abbreviations not generally recognised. As a rule,
abbreviations should be avoided.
• Define abbreviations, acronyms and symbols when they first occur in the text, and
from that point onwards, use the abbreviated term, for example National Research
Foundation (NRF).
Cover Page • The ICT department cover page should be used for every assignment submitted.
There is an individual cover page and group assignment cover page. Please use
whichever is most appropriate for the assignment you are submitting.

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 7.6. PLAGIARISM

Dishonesty and plagiarism will not be tolerated. The University and the Faculty view the issue of plagiarism in a
serious light. Evidence of plagiarism or dishonesty will be dealt with according to the University’s and/or Faculty’s
Regulations.

The issue of plagiarism as referred to in the Faculty Guidelines for Ethics in Research:

Plagiarism is to:

• present the ideas, words or results of another person as your own, without acknowledging the original author;
• use the ideas or words of another person without giving due credit to that person or source;
• use sentences, paragraphs or parts of articles and books without quotation marks and/or appropriate
acknowledgement;
• download sentences, paragraphs or sections of writings from the Internet and to use them without quotation
marks and/or proper acknowledgement;
• use another person’s direct words without quotation marks, even when you acknowledge the source;
• use ideas without making them properly your own, even though you might have acknowledged the original
source;
• formulate your words so closely to those of the original author that it is obvious that you could not have
written them without having had the source next to you, i.e. your paraphrasing of the author’s words is too
close to the original author’s use of the words, even if you did acknowledge your source.

If you use the words and ideas of other people, their words must be clearly indicated in quotation marks and used
correctly, and their source indicated to avoid being guilty of plagiarism. No copying of textbooks is allowed.

Plagiarism is wrong because:

• It is theft of intellectual property.

• The person (plagiarist) lies about the contribution made to the project.
• The person (plagiarist) cannot give a true account of how the research was carried out.

Benefits to be derived from consciously avoiding plagiarism:

By deliberately avoiding plagiarism, learners learn:

• the value of doing original work;
• to develop professional skills such as doing research, giving attention to detail and analyzing arguments;
• to act with honesty and integrity in their professional lives; and
• to write professionally and engage in debate.

The VUT Plagiarism Policy can be accessed via the following link: https://www.vut.ac.za/library/plagiarism/

7.7. REFERENCING

For the entire IT diploma, any assignment that is handed-in should be using the Harvard referencing style for any
references that should be included in your assignment

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Students are encouraged to use reference management software such as Endnote, Mendeley or any other reference
management software for their references.

For further information regarding References, consult the VUT Referencing Guide. This guide can be accessed in on
VUTela OR via the following link: https://www.vut.ac.za/referencing-guidelines/.

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 8. HOW TO STUDY

It is important for you stay up to date with the work schedule, falling behind increases the workload for you and your
group at the end of the semester. You should use the work schedule to plan your deliverables and studying throughout
the semester. Do not wait until the day before an assignment is due to start the assignment, the day before the due
date the assignment should be complete so start an assignment as soon as possible. Study the content for each
week of the work schedule and ensure you are familiar and understand the content. This will make understanding
each deliverable and preparing for the exam easier.

8.1. TEACHING STRATEGY

This module will be presented on both a practical and theoretical basis although the main method of presentation
assumes that the learner has mastered the theory that was acquired during the diploma. For this reason, the lecture
times will be mainly used for class and group discussions, case studies, role plays, presentations, debates, and
exercises.

Each learner will also be involved in the compilation of presentations and assignments. At times, you may be expected
to work in groups. Groups should ideally consist of an uneven/smaller number of members, of which the maximum
size will be discussed in class. Where possible groups should be made up of a diversity of members, the idea being
to share cultures and experiences and to learn from and support one another.

It is important that you enjoy this subject. However, you will only find it enjoyable if you are an enthusiastic participant.

You are an adult learner; thus, the number of formal lectures will be kept to a minimum. The principles of adult
learning that are applied to this module incorporate the following:

• You have a need to learn.

• You are responsible for your own development.
• You will continually evaluate your own insight and knowledge.
• You will approach the content according to your personal learning style.
• You would like to be treated with respect.
• You will not waste time nor procrastinate.
• You would like to be involved in the determination of the instructional strategies used.

A learning environment in which you are prepared to differ with others, including myself will be created. Continuous
feedback about the presentation of this module will be appreciated. It is thus your responsibility to communicate both
positive and negative feedback.

8.2. APPROACHES FOR SUCCESS

8.2.1. Pre-reading
Please read your learner guide. You should pre-read the relevant theory from your textbook and/ or additional sources
before each class meeting to ensure that you are up to date with the topics to be presented. The learner guide will
provide information on which topics will be covered during each class.

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 8.2.2. Note-taking
You will gain more from your reading of the course material if you make notes as you go along. Taking notes helps
you structure you own thoughts and encourages you to be critical of what you are reading. Note taking is an individual
process and many of you will have established specific note taking techniques.

Here are a few brief thoughts on the subject to encourage you to review your note taking.
Make notes as you read, even if they are only brief. You can then go over these at the start and end of each study
session.
• Don't try to read too much at one go. If there is a long learning unit, read small sections at a time and pay
particular attention to definitions and models.
• Underline/highlight important facts and key words. This will help you with future reference to the information.
• Formulate questions to be asked in the class in order to clarify/explain certain problems you may have.

8.2.3. Participation
Your participation is much needed and appreciated in class. Feel free to participate in class/group discussions/case
studies/role plays/debates. This will enable you to:
• Share your thoughts and experiences on the topic,
• Eliminate uncertainties/misconceptions,
• Obtain a better understanding of the issues,
• Develop the necessary skills that are crucial to industrial relations.

8.2.4. Instruction
You are expected to listen carefully in class, to make notes and later add these to the facts in your learning material.
It is suggested that you then summarise the relevant topic by combining the above. It is your understanding of the
topic under discussion that is important not memorisation of the exact facts.

8.2.5. Class attendance

• A roll call list will be circulated during lecture periods and you will be expected to sign the list (Under no
circumstances are you allowed to sign for a friend who is not attending class).
• If you miss any classes, the work that was discussed during that period is considered as completed by the
lecturer. If you feel you have missed a section, because you were not in class, that part of the work is
regarded as self-study.
• It is the responsibility of the learner to come to the lecturer and offer a reason for their absence.
• If you decide to discontinue with this module, please inform the lecturer when you leave.

8.3. ACTION WORDS

These action verbs are included, in order to provide clarity of what is expected of you as a student. Please study
them and make sure that you understand the meaning of each:

• Analyze
Identify parts or elements of a concept and describe them one by one.

Example: Analyze an ERD and describe each entity and relationship in detail.

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 • Compare
Point out the similarities (things that are the same) and the different between concepts, ideas or points of view.
The word “contrast” may also be used. When you compare two or more objects, do so systematically – completing
one aspect at a time. It is always better to do this in your own words.

Example: Compare databases to data warehouses. Compare the workings of an ERD to a Star Schema.

• Criticize
This means that you should indicate whether you agree or disagree about a certain statement or view. You
should then describe what you agree/disagree about and give reasons for your view.
Example: Write critical comments about the development of wireless technologies.

• Define
Give the precise meaning of something. Very often definitions have to be learnt word for word.

Example: Define a business process.

• Demonstrate
Include and discuss examples. You have to prove that you understand how a process works or how a concept
is applied in real-life situations.

Example: Give a written demonstration on the implementation process for systems.

• Describe
Say exactly what something is like; give an account of the characteristics or nature of something; explain how it
works. No opinion or argument is needed.

Example: Describe the characteristics of two-tiered databases.

• Discuss
Comment on something in your own words. Often requires debating two viewpoints or two different possibilities.

Example: Discuss the differences between a context DFD and full DFD.

• Distinguish
Point out the differences between objects, different ideas, or points of view. Usually requires you to use your own
words.

Example: Distinguish between 1st and 2nd normal forms.

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 • Example
A practical illustration of the concept is required.

Example: See the different examples provided by for each task word discussed.

• Explain
Clarify or give reason for something, usually in your own words. You must prove that you understand the content.
It may be useful to use examples or illustrations.

Example: Briefly explain the following concepts:

(a) A data mart
(b) A data warehouse

• Identify
Give the essential characteristics or aspects of a phenomenon.

Example: Identify the characteristics of good database design.

• Illustrate
Draw a diagram or sketch that represents a phenomenon or idea.

Example: Illustrate the model of three-tiered architecture.

• List
Simply provide a list of names, facts or items asked for. A particular category or order may be specified.

Example: List the steps of the SDLC in order.

• Motivate
You should explain the reasons for your statements or views. You should try to convince the reader of your view.

Example: Should the business implement this system? Motivate you reasoning.

• Name or mention
Briefly describe without giving details

Example: Name two approaches to implementation.

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 • Outline
Emphasize the major features, structures or general principles of a topic, omitting minor details. Slightly more
detail than in case of naming, listing or stating of information is required.

Example: Outline the major features of databases.

• State
Supply the required information without discussing it.

Example: State three functions of a web-service.

• Summarize
Give a structured overview of the key (most important) aspects of a topic; must always be in your own words.

Example: Give the summary of the core characteristics of the analysis phase of the SDLC.

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 9. LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND ASSESSMENT MAPPING

9.1. LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND ASSESSMENTS FOR THE MODULE

9.1.1. Covering of the Theory Topics

A theory is a background for your further studying. You could learn how doing something in practice, but if you know
how it works theoretically, your skills will be stronger.

For example, you could learn how to drive a car in practice without taking any theory classes, but if the car suddenly
stops, you will not be able to find the problem, fix it and drive again, because you have no idea how it works.

Certainly, studying theory will not give you answers to all your questions, but it helps to solve the problem much faster
and more effectively. The theory makes your view wider and helps you improve your skills.

9.1.2. Working through the Practical Lessons

Working through the practical lessons will impart to you the skills to effectively work in the Oracle Developer
ecosystem in the development of forms and reports. This will enable you to develop your own system as required for
the module, and it will aid you in sitting the exam for this module, which is a purely practical exam.

9.1.3. Theory Assignments

The theory assignments you will complete in this module are designed to help strengthen what you learn in the theory
classes, especially with regards to Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs).

9.1.4. Theory Semester Test 1

The theory semester test is based on chapters 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the theory learning material. The semester test helps
you identify where your weaknesses currently lie in these chapters and what you needed to target for revision.

9.1.5. Theory Semester Test 2

This theory semester test is based on chapters 5, 8, 10 and 11 of the theory learning material and will test your
knowledge regarding data qualify, physical database design and data and database administration. The intention
with this assessment is to identify weaknesses currently lie in these chapters and what you needed to target for
revision.

9.1.6. Practical Assignment(s)

The practical assignments are designed to help you revise what you are learning in your practical classes after the
end of each of the practical chapters. This takes the form of a group work assignment where each group develops
forms and/or reports based on a small case study based on the included databases from the practical lessons.

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 9.2. MAPPING OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND ASSESSMENTS

The table below shows you how the learning activities and assessments that you are going to do in this module
contribute to achieving the intended learning outcomes of the module discussed in section 2.3 of this learning
guide. This is to show you and motivate you by informing you of WHY you do the activities that you do in this module
so that you can relate it back to your learning. Remember that not all of these activities contribute towards your
final mark, i.e., not all these activities are summative. Some of these activities are considered formative. That means
that they help you construct your own knowledge by scaffolding the skills and tools to help you integrate the discipline
or module knowledge with our own indigenous knowledge to create something new and exciting that is unique to
every student!

As a reminder, your ILOS are:

• Apply the principles of system analysis, design and implementation to IT database systems (ILO1)
• Demonstrate the ability to apply the principles of data communication technologies and operating systems
in order to implement IT systems in a distributed environment (ILO2)
• Understanding the effects of IT on business (ILO3)
• Apply knowledge to develop a working prototype system in an Oracle environment (ILO4)

Table 6: Mapping of Learning Activities to ILOs

ILO 1

ILO 2

ILO 3

ILO 4
Learning Activity/Assessments

Covering of the theory chapters ✔ ✔ ✔

Working though the practical lessons ✔ ✔ ✔
Theory Assignments ✔ ✔
Theory Semester Test 1 ✔ ✔
Theory Semester Test 2 ✔ ✔
Practical Assignments ✔ ✔ ✔

In addition to the intended learning outcomes, your learning activities are also designed to help you develop your
capacity in the cross critical-field outcomes (CCFOs) discussed in section 2.4. As a reminder, your CCFOs for this
module are as follows:

• identify and solve problems (CCFO1)

• work in a team (CCFO2)
• organize and manage themselves (CCFO3)
• collect, analyse and evaluate information (CCFO4)
• communicate effectively (CCFO5)
• use science and technology (CCFO6)
• recognize problem solving contexts (CCFO7)
• develop entrepreneurial opportunities (CCFO8)

The mapping of the activities to these CCFOs looks as follows:

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 Table 7: Mapping of Learning Activities to CCFOs

CCFO 1

CCFO 2

CCFO 3

CCFO 4

CCFO 5

CCFO 6

CCFO 7

CCFO 8
Learning Activity/Assessments

Covering of the theory chapters ✔ ✔ ✔

Working though the practical lessons ✔
Theory Assignments ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Theory Semester Test 1 ✔ ✔ ✔
Theory Semester Test 2 ✔ ✔ ✔
Practical Assignments ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

9.3. CALCULATION OF THE FINAL MARK

Table 8: Calculation of the final mark

MARK ON
LEARNING ACTIVITY WEIGHT
ITS
1 Group practical assignment 1 25%
2 Group practical assignment 2 25%
3 Semester Test 1 20%
4 Semester Test 2 25%
5 Theory Assignments 5%
TOTAL 100%

Please take note that the module has switched to Continuous Assessments (CASS) for this semester, so there will
no longer be an exam. Table 8 indicates the calculation of your final mark.

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 10. WORK SCHEDULE

Due to the extended registrations, we are awaiting the new updated, academic calendar.

Please ensure that you stay up to date with the announcements on VUTela for this subject. Important dates and events will be posted there.

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