This course provides a wide-ranging transdisciplinary introduction to the evolution and application of increasingly complex and powerful digital technologies. Particular attention is given to the impact of technologies on society, the individual and the environment. A broad range of past, present and future technologies and techniques are considered within a framework which is designed to support you in acquiring crucial skills which underpin the duties and responsibilities of today’s computing professionals.
A strong research-infused curriculum is adopted and is reinforced by an expectation that you will regularly contribute to the virtual classroom’s Discussion Forum. This will provide opportunities to consider diverse cutting-edge issues and current events - thereby supporting you in the acquisition of a broad range of transferable skills which are of pivotal importance in professional practice.
As part of the assessment for this course, you will have the opportunity to carry out a research-informed case study in which they will be able to focus on ethical issues relating to specific past, current or emerging hardware and/or software systems/trends. Alternatively you may elect to undertake a practically based exercise. In either case, you will work within a small group – with each member being marked individually for their contributions.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate competence in understanding key technical and environmental issues concerning the operation, implementation and application of digital systems
- Critically appraise past, present and future applications of digital systems with particular emphasis on their impact upon both society and the individual
- Formulate professional ethical positions in relation to the development, manufacture, application, proliferation and disposal of digital systems
- Participate effectively in group work and proactively contribute to the overall organisation of the group
- Recognise the varied roles and responsibilities which are associated with professional activity in the computing/IT domain and the importance of continued professional development
Course content
Indicative topics:
- Digital systems and genocide
- Environmental stewardship: The computer life cycle – from inception to e-waste
- Long-term data archiving
- Server farms and sustainability
- Digital shadows and personnel privacy
- Empowering digital systems – fully automated processes
- Predictive modelling
- Surveillance systems
- Drones for surveillance and warfare
- Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID’s)
- When technology goes wrong – from cancer therapy to avionics
- Animatronics
- Ethical and professional responsibilities
- Ethics in a multi-cultural context
- Ethics and the Internet
- From technology to human factors
- Professional codes of conduct – turning theory into practice
- Professional roles and responsibilities – professional development
Pace of study
For this short online course, we recommend about 20 hours of study per week to complete one 20-credit module over a 10-week trimester.
Assessment method
This course is assessed through 100% coursework with a range of methods, such as essays, research reports, presentations, group work and practical reports which will be handed in and assessed at the end of the 10 week trimester. There will be 1/2 virtual classrooms over the 10 week trimester and if you are unable to attend you will be able to download the session to view in your own time.
Offset course credits towards another qualification
Once you’ve completed this course you may be able to offset the 20 credits towards our online Computing and Information Technologies BSc (Hons) Top-Up or the online Computing and Information Technologies University Advanced Diploma. This would reduce the number of modules you would need to study and the total cost of the course.
‡2023/24 for new entrants
Starting between September 2023 and August 2024.
UK/EU fee: £905
International fee: £905
2024/25 for new entrants
Starting between September 2024 and August 2025.
UK/EU fee: £905
International fee: £905
About your fees
Prices are correct for the year of entry shown. These are subject to annual increase in subsequent academic years.
You need to have one of the following:
- HND or foundation degree in a Computing subject from a UK university - or international equivalent recognised by NARIC (National Recognition Information Centre)
- Edexcel BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development - 2010 QCF (Qualifications and Credit Framework)
- British Computer Society (BCS) Diploma in IT (level 5) - including completion of the professional project
- HNC in Computing subject plus at least 3 years relevant work experience in a computing role
- Evidence of significant work and life experience which may be taken as the equivalent of traditional qualifications
English language qualifications
If English is not your first language, or you have not successfully completed your highest level of qualification in English, you will need an English language qualification. For this course you will need at least one of the following:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) 6.5
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) 580 (paper based), 237 (computer based) or 92 (internet based)
- Pearson Test of Academic English: 58
- Cambridge Advanced Certificate: pass
- London Tests of English: we accept level 4 for undergraduate courses
- International GCE O Level English Language: grade C
- International GCSE English/English as a Second Language: grade C*
* If you don't have GCSE Maths then you can study our Certificate of Credit in Introduction to Maths in Preparation for Higher Education which is a 20-credit module designed to help you develop your mathematical skills in preparation for higher education.
Find out more about our English language requirements
Documents to support your application
In order for your application to be assessed, you will need to provide the following documents when you apply:
- Official photo identification such as a passport or driving licence
- Current CV
- Written reference supplied on headed paper from either a manager, supervisor, tutor or teacher
- Copies of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications*
*Documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation by a professional translator/translation company. Each translation must contain:
- Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
- The date of the translation
- The full name and signature of the translator, or an authorised official of the company
- The translator’s contact details
A list of approved translators can be found on the UK Government website.
Please note: failure to submit any documentation when requested, may result in your application being withdrawn.
Apply directly to the University.
Apply now
For support with completing your application, view our guide to the application process.
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