Course description
This course enables students in Computing Studies and Information Systems Programs to acquire practical experience in defining, designing, developing and implementing a special computer systems project. Projects will be done individually or in small groups in consultation with the instructor. The instructor will work with each individual or group to select an appropriate computer project. Project topics may vary from in-depth research to systems analysis and design development proposals. The student will learn more about technical documentation. Project management fundamentals will also be covered.
Learning activities
Experiential learning, lecture, seminar and tutorial are used in this course. Weekly communication with the instructor will be compulsory.
Means of assessment
Assessment is in accordance with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy.
| Project proposal |
10-20% |
| Progress report(s) & implementation |
25-40% |
| Oral presentation(s) |
10-20% |
|
Final report & implementation
|
30-40%
|
| Total |
100% |
Students may conduct research as part of their coursework in this class. Instructors for the course are responsible for ensuring that student research projects comply with College policies on ethical conduct for research involving humans, which can require obtaining Informed Consent from participants and getting the approval of the Douglas College Research Ethics Board prior to conducting the research.
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the successful student will be able to:
- Prepare a project proposal
- Formulate and negotiate an agreement to set up the terms and conditions of a project
- Identify a set of objectives/tasks that can be accomplished within the time allotment
- Apply the life-cycle of systems analysis and design to a computer system project
- Gather pertinent information and data through interviews, questionnaires, surveys and observations of a computer information system’s activities
- Organize a project meeting, prepare an agenda, and issue timely minutes
- Use problem solving skills to resolve problems encountered during the project period
- Present orally and provide written memos/reports to clients and faculty supervisor in a formal environment
- Prepare technical documentation and a final project report on the work performed
- Use project management software effectively to manage the project
Textbook materials
Textbooks and Materials to be Purchased by Students
Because of the possible variety of project topics, no general reference material can be prescribed. Specific material will be indicated to each student by the instructor as required.