module specification

The module provides an introduction to a range of problem solving
techniques and to standard packages for spreadsheets and databases as problem solving tools.
 

None

The principal graduate attributes focused on in the module are ‘Performance in a variety of idioms and contexts’ [A2] and ‘Creative and Ethical’ [A3].
The module aims to give the students an understanding of how problems can be solved systematically [A2, A3].
It aims to do this by giving them a grounding in standard packages (spreadsheets and databases) [A2], to give them an understanding of their applicability to a range of fields [A2, A3] and to make students able to apply these packages appropriately in subsequent modules [A2, A3]. It also provides opportunity for subject IT curriculum.

Problem Solving
o problem solving strategies, algorithms, modelling, declarative, heuristics, pictorial

Spreadsheets
o the spreadsheet model
o introduction to a Spreadsheet software (e.g. MS Excel)
o use of literals, expressions, functions, macros
o graphical presentation
o analysing problems and solutions using spreadsheet implementation

Databases
o introduction to databases and Database Management System (e.g. MS Access)
o creating, viewing, editing, deleting tables
o querying data in a table, joining tables
o generating forms and reports
o analysing problems and solutions using database implementation

Learning technologies will be used for providing the teaching materials (e.g. WebLearn). The module will be taught by a mixture of lectures, supervised computer laboratory sessions and self study practical exercises. In particular, the lectures (24 hours) will be used to introduce the various concepts and principles of the module's topics or demonstrate worked examples. Each lecture will be followed by a practical supervised session (24 hours) where the students will be able to apply/experiment with the various notions introduced in the lectures, using examples and following detailed instructions. The materials that will be used in the practical sessions will allow each student to work at his/her own speed. Furthermore, students will be pointed to self-study exercises (32 hours) which they will attempt in their own time. The students will also be expected to spend about 70 hours on private study and on preparation for the test as well as the coursework.

On completing the module the student should be able to (the attributes achieved are in brackets):

LO1 – Appreciate a range of problem solving techniques and the different types of problems to which they can be applied [A2, A3]
LO2 – Create a real-life Database application using a PC-based Database Management System (e.g. MS Access) [A2, A3]
LO3 - Create algorithmic methods of real-world problems using spreadsheets, and to discover and present the solutions [A2, A3]
LO4 - Identify the software package suitable for solving a range of problems [A3]

Learning technologies are used to support assessment (e.g. WebLearn). This module is assessed through a test and a coursework.
· In the test the students are assessed on problem solving strategies. This assessment component assesses the Learning Outcome LO1.
· The two-part coursework is a summative assessment and assesses the students’ knowledge of spreadsheets and databases. This component assesses the students in Learning Outcomes LO2, LO3 and LO4.
In order to pass the module, a student must achieve an aggregate mark of 40% or more.

Sprankle, Maureen (2008).
Problem Solving and Programming Concepts
Prentice Hall.

Grauer, R. T. and M. Barber (2008).
Exploring Microsoft Office 2003. Volume I & II
Prentice Hall.