615-347 Application Environments

This subject is regarded as a non-science subject for students enrolled in the BSc, BASc and combined BSc courses.

615-230 Database Concepts plus either 615-240 Concepts in Software Development II or 615-241 Software Development II (Advanced).

An applications environment is the setting in which applications development takes place within organisations. This subject investigates a number of different applications environments and provides valuable practical experience in these environments. The method of applications development needs to suit not just organisational structure but also the characteristics of the underlying computer systems and associated support software.

At the successful conclusion of the subject, the student should have:

• developed an understanding of the major characteristics of computer systems and the ways these support the development and management of information systems;

• developed an understanding of the features of different operation systems from a theoretic and practical perspective;

• developed a practical understanding of how to develop software applications in different environment situations;

• present a rational argument for selection of an operating system; and

• explain the relationship between basic theory and practical application, as demonstrated in the lecture series.

Students are also exposed to, and should develop the following generic skills:

• take account of ethical considerations in designing a project;

• develop problem-solving skills through laboratory exercises;

• think critically, and organise knowledge, from consideration of the lecture material; and

• acquire abilities in collaborative working, while participating in projects; and plan effective work schedules, to meet the regular deadlines for submission of assessable work.

A 2-hour end-of-semester written examination (60%); group and individual ongoing assessment to average four hours per week throughout the semester (40%).