Introduction to Information Technology
Foundation Diploma
Year: 2024/2025
Introduction to the Module
This module is designed to introduce students to the foundational concepts of Information Technology (IT). It covers the essential areas that make up the modern digital world, including hardware, software, networking, security, the internet, cloud computing, and digital ethics. Students will develop a strong understanding of how IT impacts personal, academic, and professional environments. By the end of this course, students will be equipped with practical knowledge to navigate the rapidly changing technological landscape.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, students will be able to:
- Understand the fundamentals of Information Technology
Define key concepts and terminologies used in IT.
Identify the role and impact of IT in modern society.
- Explain the components and functions of Hardware
Distinguish between different types of hardware components
Understand the working principles of input, output, and storage devices.
Explain how hardware interacts with software in computing systems.
- Understand the basics of Software
Differentiate between system software and application software.
Describe the functions of an operating system and other essential software.
Describe Network and Security principles
- Understand the fundamentals of networking, including LAN, WAN, and the internet.
Discuss common network security issues and measures to protect data.
Perform basic Maintenance of IT systems
- Identify common hardware and software problems.
Understand the procedures for troubleshooting and system maintenance.
Explain how the Internet operates
- Describe the structure and operation of the internet.
Understand internet protocols, browsers, and search engines.
Understand Cloud Computing
- Define cloud computing and its benefits.
Explain the various types of cloud services (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS).
- Discuss the importance of Digital Ethics
Understand key ethical concerns related to IT, including data privacy and cybersecurity.
Analyze the impact of digital technologies on society and ethical issues surrounding them.
1.0 Assessment
The assessment for this module consists of two forms of assessment. Submission dates are as indicated.
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Type of assessment
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Word or time limit
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Mark
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Submission method
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Submission dates
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1
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Written assignment 1
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1500 words
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50%
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Submit a PDF copy on Blackboard
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Refer to Blackboard
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2
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Written assignment 2
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1500 words
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50%
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Submit a PDF copy on Blackboard
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Refer to Blackboard
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Assignment 1 - total 100 marks (20 marks each)
Word count for each answer is 200 words (+/- 10%)
1. Computer Hardware and its functions
2. Computer Software and its categories with examples
3. Discuss what is a network with types of networks and devices. Include appropriate diagram.
4. Social media and its impact
5. What do you think technology will be like in the future?
Note: Provide Harvard References to all the questions. Each question should have appropriate definition, discussion, functions, and example. Review assignment with lecturer before submission. Submit your answer in a .docx or PDF file in the Blackboard AS1 link.
File name: IIT-StudentName-AS1
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=dqBGjZPQbUGle4aSzeE7-
BGuedrinmlJrUzh21ND2iFUNEVXMlhZR1RNMTVNMzFCN0FWQkRGUThHNC4u
ASSIGNMENT 2 - total 100 marks
Prepare 10 to 15PowerPoint slides (submit in PDF)
You can suggest a technology topic or select one of the following topics for your presentation: -
1. Cloud computing
2. Phishing attacks
3. Chatbots
4. Digital ethics
5. Applications of 5G Technology
6. Artificial Intelligence and Expert Systems
7. How Technology can improve Human Life
8. How Technology can reduce Climate change
9. Bio-computers
10. How to protect yourself in Facebook
11. How to use You Tube to record and upload your video
12. The future of Food Farming
13. A futuristic School
14. Food of the future
15. The evolution of Communication Devices
Note: Provide References in the last slide, Review with the lecturer the slides during lesson 10. Submit a PDF file to Blackboard AS2 Link.
File name: IIT-StudentName-AS2
The following link will help you in your presentation:
Good Presentation VS Bad Presentation
How to make great presentations
Assignment 2 Marks will be awarded based on the Analysis, Research, Discussion of the topic, Conclusion, Appropriate diagram, slides presentation style. and Harvard references.
See Appendix 1 for Cover Page.
Assessment Task
The submitted assignments which are undertaken by the students will be assessed as per the following criteria:
Marking Rubric of AS1
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Marker comments
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Marks awarded
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Maximum marks
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Question 1
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20
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Question 2
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20
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Question 3
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20
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Question 4
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20
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Question 5
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20
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Marking Rubric of AS2
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Marker comments
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Marks awarded
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Maximum marks
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Analysis and Research of the topic
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30
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Discussion of the topic
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30
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Synthesis, Conclusion, and Recommendation
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20
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Harvard References
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10
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Slides presentation style
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10
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