Introductory description

The aim of this module is to introduce the key skills required of the computing professional, comprising oral and written communication, operating systems proficiency and awareness of professional aspects of computing practice.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The module will cover the following topics relating to communication skills:

• writing as a process
• composing effective paragraphs
• paraphrasing and quoting
• avoiding plagiarism
• writing a summary
• writing a critical analysis
• decoding topics and titles
• grammar
• soliciting feedback on writing
• writing an abstract or proposal
• writing an academic paper
• giving an oral presentation
  together with the following topics relating to practical operating systems skills:
• Files and file organisation: directories and file structures, access control and security, file formats
• Operating systems: the kernel, shells, window managers, processes
• Networks: communication tools and protocols, security
• Command-line interfaces: processes, tools and utilities
• Comparative operating systems: proprietary and open-source alternatives
• Standard applications: spreadsheets, databases, presentation tools and word processors
  and the following topics relating to professional aspects of computing:
• Professional bodies: Historic factors leading to their creation; evolution of UK professions and the roles of typical major bodies; typical structure, organisation and functions of a professional body; constitutional powers and legal status of bodies; statutory and regulatory functions; professional standards and disciplinary powers
• Commercial aspects of industry: structure of organisations
• Management: Project planning and management; health and safety legislation
• Legal aspects of software: Overview of UK law; Data Protection Act; Copyright Designs and Patents Act; Computer Misuse Act; Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act
• Social aspects of computing

and the following topics relating to continuing professional development:

• Approaches to continuing professional development
• Construction of a personal development plan

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Judge and improve their own writing with increased confidence, utilise appropriate methods for referring and citing sources, and be familiar with the idea of writing as a process.
• Understand basic computing and operating systems concepts, apply them to a networked computer system, and use standard applications and system tools.
• Practice presentation skills and use information systems available via the network at Warwick.
• Understand the relevance for professional computing practice of basic computer law, professional bodies, and the social impact of computer technology.
• Understand the importance of continuing professional development and demonstrate their understanding through development of a personal development plan.

Indicative reading list

Please see Talis Aspire link for most up to date list.

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Research element

Students are introduced to basic research skills and required to research a professional, social or ethical aspect of computer science and present their findings in an essay.

Subject specific skills

Competency with Linux

Transferable skills

Communication - written and verbal
Presentation
Academic writing
Teamwork
Personal development planning