Scottish Qualification Authority
Higher National Diploma in Computer Science
Syllabus Guide
Saegis Campus
135 S. De S.
Jayasinghe Mawatha,
Kohuwala, Nugegoda,
Sri Lanka
+94 (0)11 7430000
+94 (0)77 0430000
www.saegis.edu.lk
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Contents
Unit Sequence........................................................................................................................ 3
Module Content
Semester 01 ............................................................................................................................ 4
1. Computer Systems Fundamentals ............................................................................ 5
2. Mathematics for Computing 1 .................................................................................. 7
3. Developing Software: Introduction .......................................................................... 9
4. Software Development: Developing Websites for Multiplatform Use ............... 10
5. Database Fundamentals........................................................................................... 13
6. Study Skills ................................................................................................................ 15
Semester 02 .......................................................................................................................... 16
1. Computer Networking: Fundamentals ................................................................... 17
2. Troubleshooting Computing Problems.................................................................. 19
3. Professionalism and Ethics in Computing ............................................................. 21
4. Relational Database Management Systems ........................................................... 23
5. Software Development: Object Oriented Programming ...................................... 25
2
Unit Sequence
Semester 01
Semester 02
1
Computer Systems Fundamentals
Unit
Code
H17534
2
Mathematics for Computing - 1
D76E 34
7
1
3
Developing Software: Introduction
H173 34
7
1
4
SD: Developing Web for Multi-Platform Use
H1J9 35
8
2
5
Data Base Design Fundamentals
DV6E 34
7
1
6
Computer Networking Fundamentals
H17A 34
7
1
7
Troubleshooting Computer Problems
H177 34
7
1
8
Professionalism and Ethics in Computing
H175 34
7
1
9
Relational Database Management Systems
H16W 35
8
2
Software Development : OOP
H171 35
8
2
10
SCQF
Level
7
HN
Credit
1
Credit points and level: 2 HN credits at SCQF level 7: (16 SCQF credit points at SCQF
level 7*)
*SCQF credit points are used to allocate credit to qualifications in the Scottish Credit and
Qualifications Framework (SCQF). Each qualification in the Framework is allocated a number of
SCQF credit points at an SCQF level. There are 12 SCQF levels, ranging from Access 1 to
Doctorates.
3
Semester 01
4
Computer Systems Fundamentals
Unit code: H175 34
Outcome 1
Explain the purpose of the elements of a computer system.
Knowledge and/or Skills
Physical elements of a computer system Software elements of a computer system
Evidence Requirements
Outcome 2
Manipulate and explain the uses of number and logic systems used in a computer.
Knowledge and/or Skills
Conversions between number systems Arithmetic in non-decimal number systems
Computer logic
Candidates will need to provide evidence to demonstrate their Knowledge and/or Skills
by showing that they can:
•
•
Describe the use of the physical elements of a computer system for three different
elements including the interpretation of information from two graphs which will be
used in the construction of a table to communicate findings relating to computer
hardware.
Describe the use of the software elements of a computer system for three different
elements.
5
•
•
•
Apply conversions between two number bases from binary, decimal and hexadecimal
using three different sets of integers to include working using a minimum of eight
binary digits and four hexadecimal digits.
Apply addition and subtraction of integers in non-decimal number systems using
three different sets of integers to include working using a minimum of eight binary
digits in base 2 and four hexadecimal digits in base 16.
Apply logic operations from AND, OR, NOT, and XOR using three different sets of
data.
Outcome 3
Install a range of computer software.
Knowledge and/or Skills
Install operating system software Install and configure applications software Install
security software
Candidates will need to provide evidence to demonstrate their Knowledge and/or Skills
by showing that they can:
•
•
•
Produce documentation of the installation and running of an operating system.
Produce documentation of the installation and running of a software application
including two items which have been customised.
Produce documentation of the installation and running of security software on one
occasion.
6
Mathematics for Computing 1
Unit code: D76E 34
Outcome 1
Demonstrate an understanding of scientific notation and manipulate numbers in
scientific notation
Knowledge and/or skills
•
•
•
•
•
•
The difference between real numbers and integers
Power notation and multiplication and division of powers
The ability to express numbers in scientific notation
The ability to perform arithmetic on numbers in scientific notation
The need to round real numbers and estimate the resulting error
How real numbers and integers are represented in computer memory
Outcome 2
Demonstrate an understanding of co-ordinate systems and vectors and apply linear
transformations
Knowledge and/or skills
•
•
•
•
•
•
Co-ordinate systems in two dimensions, particularly Cartesian co-ordinates
The ability to represent simple shapes by finding the co-ordinates of the vertices
The concept of a vector
The polar representation of a vector
The ability to offset and scale shapes described by co-ordinates
The co-ordinate system used in programming output devices
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Outcome 3
Demonstrate a knowledge of simple functions and the ability to perform basic algebraic
operations
Knowledge and/or skills
•
•
•
•
•
•
The ability to express simple problems as mathematical equations
The ability to simplify and change the subject of simple equations
The concept of a function
The ability to obtain the equation of a straight line from a graph
The basic properties of a circle, trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions
The properties of a triangle and the ability to convert between linear to polar coordinates
Outcome 4
Demonstrate the application of Boolean algebra to problem situations
Knowledge and/or skills
•
•
•
•
•
Binary states (ON/OFF; 1/0; OPEN/CLOSED; +5V/0V; HIGH/LOW)
The ability to identify binary problems, identify and label inputs and outputs
The ability to produce a truth table corresponding to a problem situation
The ability to express a truth table as a Boolean equation
The ability to simplify a Boolean equation using algebraic methods
8
Developing Software: Introduction
Unit code: H173 34
Outcome 1
Implement and test code to carry out tasks following a given design.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
•
•
Make appropriate use of variables
Use programming constructs (selection and iteration) within code
Use functions and parameter passing
Test the code using a recognised test strategy and given test cases
Document the results of testing
Outcome 2
Prepare technical documentation in line with good practice.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
•
Apply meaningful names to variables and functions
Ensure that code is well laid out to aid maintainability
Internally document the code by adding comments
Produce technical guide
9
Software Development: Developing Websites for Multiplatform Use
Unit code: H1J9 35
Outcome 1
Describe the scripting features used in the development of websites optimised for
multiplatform use.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
•
Document Object Model (DOM)
Client and server-side scripting
Methods of embedding scripts
Fundamentals of security issues associated with websites
Candidates will need to provide evidence to demonstrate their Knowledge and/or Skills
by showing that they can describe:
•
•
•
•
•
•
The DOM functionality for a range of multiplatform devices
The differences between client and server-side scripting highlighting a couple of
examples of the usage of each
Suitable methods used to embed scripts within web pages that will work on a range of
devices
Some of the different scripting languages used and highlight their advantages and
disadvantages dependant on the type of device and industry structure
Code to handle specified events, eg touch screen, push, slide, zoom and key
interaction
Current security issues
Outcome 2
Design a website for specified devices using the principles of software planning and
design.
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Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Scoping a project
Design specifications
Understanding of device requirements
User expectations
Analysis
Design techniques
Algorithms
Graphical solutions
Project plans
Testing
Candidates will need to provide evidence to demonstrate their Knowledge and/or Skills
in the design and production of a website using the principles of software planning and
design. This assessment is integrated with Outcomes 3 and 4.
Outcome 3
Use appropriate tools and techniques to optimise websites developed for specified
devices.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
•
Implement the design using appropriate programming concepts
Generate code to handle specified events, eg touch screen, push, slide, zoom and key
interaction
Manipulate the use of cookies
Implement security issues in web development for use on specified devices
Candidates will need to provide evidence to demonstrate their Knowledge and/or Skills
in using appropriate tools and techniques to implement websites developed for a range of
platforms.
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This task is integrated with Outcomes 2 and 4; please see the Evidence Requirements for
Outcome 4. Assessors must assure themselves of the authenticity of each candidate’s
submission.
Outcome 4
Utilise server-side scripting including database processing of requests.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
•
Generate code to read data from the database from a specific device
Generate code to insert data including records into the database from a specific device
Generate code to delete data including records from the database from a specific
device
Generate code to update data including records in the database from a specific device
12
Database Fundamentals
Unit code: DV6E 34
Outcome 1
Create a normalised relational database structure
Knowledge and/or skills
Develop a rational data model to agreed organisational standard
Candidates will need to provide evidence to demonstrate their knowledge and/or skills
by showing that they can:
•
•
•
Successfullynormalise data to the required standard
Construct a data model derived from the 3NF relations
Produce a data dictionary for the entities created
It is not acceptable for candidates to use modelling software.
Outcome 2
Write SQL statements to maintain and update a database structure
Knowledge and/or skills
•
•
•
Populate tables with records
Update tables according to user requirements
Create constraints and primary keys within tables
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Outcome 3
To interrogate the database and manipulate the data
Knowledge and/or skills
•
•
•
•
Use SQL to create queries to meet user requirements
Sorting, updating and deleting data records to meet user requirements
Incorporate calculations within queries
One table in a select statement
Create queries that ‘join’ more than Produce formatted query responses
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Study Skills
Outline
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•
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•
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Introductions/peer interviews (Ice breakers)/introduction to study skills&
academic English
Note taking/Note making skills
Reading Skills/strategies
Introduction to Academic Writing/academic vocabulary/Paragraphing
Developing Academic style/ Academic Assignment writing
Paraphrasing Skills
Summarizing Skills
In class Written assignment (Summarizing)
Introduction to Presentation skills/warmup mini presentations in class
Referencing styles
Report Writing/mini study planning
Draft Discussion/presentation warm up
Final Presentation/report submission
Important: Successful completion of Study Skills module is compulsory in order to
complete the HND programme.
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Semester 02
16
Computer Networking: Fundamentals
Unit code: H17A 34
Outcome 1
Describe the elements and characteristics of contemporary computer networks.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
Describe the four basic elements of a network Describe the four fundamental
characteristics of a contemporary computer network
Identify and describe the function of a range of network infrastructure devices
Describe the three main types of media used in networks and their characteristics
Outcome 2
Describe the OSI model and the TCP/IP protocol suite.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
•
Describe the seven layered OSI model and the PDU encapsulation process
Identify and describe the fundamental protocols from the TCP/IP protocol suite
Identify and address resolution methods including DNS and ARP Describe IPv4
Addressing including public and private class ranges, and unicast and broadcast
addressing and the requirement for subnet masking
Outcome 3
Describe a range of WAN technologies.
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Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
Describe WAN physical layer terminology and devices including DCE/DTE,
CO(central office), CPE (customer premises equipment),local loop, demarcation point,
CSU/DSU, WAN switch, router, V35, X21, EIA/TIA-612/613
Describe circuit switched and packet switched networks Describe WAN link
connection options including leased lines, ISDN & PSTN, Frame Relay & X25 & ATM,
DSL & cable modem Describe the requirements for VPN technology for remote access
over the internet.
18
Troubleshooting Computing Problems
Unit code: H177 34
Outcome 1
Investigate a computing problem.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
Approaches to problem solving
Test strategies and techniques
Problem solving tools and techniques
Outcome 2
Plan and implement a solution to a computing problem.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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•
•
Planning a solution
Implementing a solution
Testing the solution
Outcome 3
Document the steps taken to resolve a computing problem.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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•
•
Documenting the investigation
Documenting the solution
Documenting the testing
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Outcome 4
Review and evaluate the steps taken to resolve a computing problem.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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•
Reviewing and evaluating the problem solving process
Drawing conclusions regarding the effectiveness of the problem solving
20
Professionalism and Ethics in Computing
Unit code: H1F7 34
Outcome 1
Describe professional bodies relevant to computing practitioners.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
Role and functions of professional bodies.
Professional bodies for computing practitioners.
Impact of computing professional bodies on vocational areas of work.
Outcome 2
Apply codes of conduct and ethical standards relevant to computing practitioners.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
•
•
Codes of conduct relevant to computing practitioners.
Role of continuous professional development for computing practitioners.
Professional integrity and ethics.
Duty of computing practitioners in social, political and environmental areas.
Outcome 3
Describe contemporary legislation as it relates to computing practitioners.
Knowledge and/or Skills
•
•
Computing legislation in the context of job roles for computing practitioners.
Other relevant legislation that impacts on computing practitioners.
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Outcome 4
Evaluate ethical considerations in a relevant vocational context.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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•
•
Sources of ethical advice out with professional bodies for computing practitioners.
Social, political and environmental computing principles.
Ethical conflict resolution.
22
Relational Database Management Systems
Unit code: H16W 35
Outcome 1
Identify and use the processes and terminology used in designing a RDBMS.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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•
•
Common terminology used in designing an RDBMS.
Processes used in creating an Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD).
Steps to normalise data to 3rd Normal form (3NF).
Outcome 2
Design an RDBMS from a given scenario.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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Use normalisation techniques to remove redundant data and create new tables.
ERD design using appropriate design rules.
Operational and functional Business Rules.
Specific assumptions needed to complete the design.
Outcome 3
Map the design model to the physical model.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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Create physical tables corresponding to a set design.
Map design attributes to the physical model.
Populate the tables with test data.
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Outcome 4
Create and run SQL statements/ queries on a RDBMS.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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Create basic Select queries.
Use expressions within the Select clause.
Group data records.
Sort data records.
Create Joins.
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Software Development: Object Oriented Programming
Unit code: H171 35
Outcome 1
Investigate object oriented programming techniques and apply them to a design.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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Object oriented concepts and terms
Object oriented programming techniques
Objects and classes
Attributes and methods
Parameter passing
Abstraction, encapsulation and information-hiding
Inheritance
Polymorphism
Association
Aggregation and collection
Coupling and cohesion
Outcome 2
Implement a solution from an object oriented design using object oriented techniques.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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•
•
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Declaring and initialising variables
Using operators
Implementing control structures
Defining data structures
Accessing and manipulating data structures
Using parameter passing
Creating Classes
Creating instances of classes
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Creating relationships between classes
Creating Constructor methods
Overloading methods
Use of exceptions
Use of standard object libraries
Documenting code
Outcome 3
Test the completed product.
Knowledge and/or Skills
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Implementing a test plan using a defined strategy
Maintaining test documentation
Evaluating results of test runs
Amending code as necessary
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