301005
Professional Practice and Communication
School of Computing, Engineering & Mathematics│Learning Guide
Autumn Session 2015
UNIT DETAILS
Unit Code: 301005 Unit Name: Professional Practice and Communication
Level: 7 Contact hours per
week: 3 Credit Points: 10
Assumed
Background:
STAFF
Unit
Coordinator,
point of first
contact and
Lecturer/Tutor
Anupama Ginige
ER.1.13 Parramatta campus
Phone: (02) 9685 9439 Email: [email protected]
Consultation Arrangements:
Tuesdays: 11-12PM Parramatta CBD Campus (HOT OFFICE)
Thursdays: 5-6PM Parramatta South Campus (ER.1.13)
Fridays: 1-2PM Parramatta South Campus (ER.1.13)
TEXTBOOK
N/A
Edition: Autumn 2015 © Copyright: University of Western Sydney, 2015. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the prior written permission from the Dean of the School of Computing, Engineering & Mathematics. Copyright for acknowledged materials reproduced herein is retained by the copyright holder. All readings in this publication are copied under licence in accordance with Part VB of the Copyright Act 1968.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents 1
1 About Professional Practice and Communication 1
1.1 An Introduction to this Unit 1
1.2 What is Expected of You 1
1.3 Changes to Unit as a Result of Past Student Feedback 1
2 Assessment Information 2
2.1 Unit Learning Outcomes 2
2.2 Approach to Learning 2
2.3 UWS Graduate Attributes 2
2.4 Contribution to Course Learning Outcomes 3
2.5 Assessment Summary 6
2.6 Assessment Details 8 Assessment 1: Reflection Essays 8 Assessment 2: Class Participation 10 Assessment 3: Management Report 11 Assessment 4: Presentation 13 Assessment 5: Ethical and/or Sustainability Report 15
2.7 General Submission Requirements 17
3 Teaching and Learning Activities 19
4 Learning Resources 22
4.1 Recommended Readings 22
4.2 Overview of Learning Resources 22
4.3 Other Resources 23
5 Important Information 24
5.1 Student responsibilities and code of conduct 24
5.2 Staff responsibilities and code of conduct 24
5.3 Links to Policies 25
5.4 Raising concerns 25
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1 About Professional Practice and Communication
1.1 An Introduction to this Unit
This unit introduces some of the concepts, standards and techniques associated with the current professional practice
for engineering and information technology students. These include the various elements of engineering and IT
practice, basic knowledge of law of contracts and legal responsibility, competence in verbal communication and
presentations and in reading and writing reports, and an understanding of ethical considerations.
1.2 What is Expected of You
Study Load
For a 10-credit point unit, you are expected to invest 10 hours per week for 14 weeks in this unit. This comprise of 3
hrs. of face-to-face lecture tutorial time and 7 hrs. in assessment activities and preparation.
Attendance
Student’s attendance is essential for this unit as they need to provide written and oral progress report on a weekly
basis.
Online Learning Requirements
Unit materials will be made available on the unit’s vUWS (E-Learning) site.
You are expected to consult vUWS at least twice a week, as all unit announcements will be made via vUWS.
Teaching and learning materials will be regularly updated and posted online.
Special Requirements for the Unit
Only for Postgraduate Students
1.3 Changes to Unit as a Result of Past Student Feedback
Student feedback pays a vital role in improving the quality and educational effectiveness of UWS units and in ensuring
academic staff keep in touch with student needs. You are welcome to provide feedback that is related to the teaching
of this unit. At the end of the semester you will be given the opportunity to complete a Student Feedback on Unit
(SFU) questionnaire to assess the unit. If requested by your unit coordinator, you may also have the opportunity to
complete a Student Feedback on Teaching (SFT) questionnaire to provide feedback for individual teaching staff.
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2 Assessment Information
2.1 Unit Learning Outcomes
Upon successfully completing this unit, students will be able to:
1 Display skills in all aspects of communication, including for technical and non-technical, and academic
and public audiences
2 Search for and evaluate information relevant to IT and engineering topics, using the full range of
information-searching tools
3 Describe and model ethical and professional codes of conduct for IT and engineering professions
4 Articulate the concepts related to security, privacy and freedom of information as it relates to electronic
data
5 Explain legal, social and environmental issues related to computing, IT and engineering
6 Explain project management principles and recognise their impact in the leveraging of professional
practice in IT and engineering
7 Work effectively as both leader and member of a team, to resolve conflicts and design, manage and
complete a number of projects conflict resolution and in designing managing and completing a number of
projects
2.2 Approach to Learning
Weekly combined Lecture/Tutorial sessions are designed to provide students hands on skills in a workshop style
setting.
2.3 UWS Graduate Attributes
As a graduate from UWS, students should be able to demonstrate all of the subsets of the major attributes which are:
1 Command multiple skills and literacies to enable adaptable lifelong learning;
2 Demonstrate knowledge of Indigenous Australia through cultural competency and professional capacity;
3 Demonstrate comprehensive, coherent and connected knowledge
4 Apply knowledge through intellectual inquiry in professional or applied contexts
5 Bring knowledge to life through responsible engagement and appreciation of diversity in an evolving world
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2.4 Contribution to Course Learning Outcomes
This is unit in the course/s of Graduate Certificate in ICT, Graduate Diploma in ICT, Master in ICT and Master in ICT-Advanced courses. This unit is responsible for
developing a comprehensive knowledge of communication and professional practice in Australian context.
Graduate Certificate in ICT (3701)
CLO
No. CLO Statement ULO 1 ULO 2 ULO 3 ULO 4 ULO 5 ULO 6 ULO 7
1
Demonstrate knowledge of core concepts related to ICT, including established theories and
recent developments, with an understanding of the both local and international
perspectives.
Developed Developed Developed Developed Developed
2 Identify, analyse and communicate problems related to ICT, and respond to stakeholder
needs and goals, within the framework of professional and ethical practice. Developed Developed Developed Developed Developed
Graduate Diploma in ICT (3700)
CLO
No. CLO Statement ULO 1 ULO 2 ULO 3 ULO 4 ULO 5 ULO 6 ULO 7
1
Develop an advanced understanding of core concepts related to ICT body of knowledge,
including established theories and recent developments with an understanding of the both
local and international perspectives. Developed Developed Developed Developed Developed
2
Identify, analyse and communicate problems and issues related to ICT and articulate
appropriate solutions in order to respond to stakeholder needs and goals, within the
framework of professional and ethical practice. Developed Developed Developed Developed Developed
3
Demonstrate a high level of personal autonomy and accountability in acquisition and
application of knowledge and skills. Developed Developed Developed Assured
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Master in ICT (3699)
CLO
No. CLO Statement ULO 1 ULO 2 ULO 3 ULO 4 ULO 5 ULO 6 ULO 7
1
Demonstrate an advanced understanding of core and
specialised concepts related to ICT body of knowledge,
including established theories and recent developments
with an understanding of the both local and international
perspectives.
Developed Developed Developed Developed Developed
2
Identify and analyse problems and issues related to ICT
and articulate appropriate solutions and justify
propositions in order to respond to stakeholder needs and
goals, within the framework of professional and ethical
practice.
Developed Developed Developed Developed Developed
3
Demonstrate a high level of personal autonomy and
accountability, in acquisition and application of knowledge
and skills and in problem solving in professional context. Developed Developed Assured Assured
4
Apply enquiry-based learning, investigate and synthesise
complex ideas and concepts, and develop ways of
learning by exploring new knowledge within ICT
discipline.
Assured Assured Assured Assured Developed Developed
5
Develop skills in scholarly research and communicate
complex ideas in a variety of formats to diverse
audiences. Developed
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Master in ICT-Advanced (3698)
CLO
No. CLO Statement ULO 1 ULO 2 ULO 3 ULO 4 ULO 5 ULO 6 ULO 7
1
Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of core concepts
related to ICT body of knowledge, including established
theories and recent developments with an understanding
of the both local and international perspectives.
Developed Developed Developed Developed Developed
2
Further develop knowledge and skills in specialised areas
that are closely applicable to ICT profession.
3
Identify and analyse problems and issues related to ICT
and articulate appropriate solutions and justify
propositions in order to respond to stakeholder needs and
goals, within the framework of professional and ethical
practice.
Developed Developed Developed Developed Developed
4
Demonstrate a high level of personal autonomy and
accountability in acquisition and application of knowledge
and skills and in problem solving in professional context. Developed Developed Assured Assured
5
Apply enquiry-based learning, investigate and synthesise
complex ideas and concepts, and develop ways of
learning in exploring new knowledge within ICT discipline. Assured Assured Assured Assured Developed Developed
6
Develop skills in scholarly research, critically evaluate
contemporary literatures in ICT field and communicate
complex ideas in a variety of formats to diverse
audiences.
Developed
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2.5 Assessment Summary
There are five assessment items in this unit, designed to enable you to demonstrate that you have achieved the unit
learning outcomes. Completion and submission of all assessment items which have been designated as mandatory or
compulsory is essential to receive a passing grade.
To pass this unit you must:
- achieve of at least 50% OVERALL mark,
- submit the REFLECTIONS ESSAYS, the MANAGEMENT REPORT and the ETHICAL AND/OR
SUSTAINBILITY REPORT,
- attend the PRESENTATION, and
- attend at least 80% of the Lecture/Tutorial sessions
Assessment Item
Value
% Due Date
ULO’s
Assessed Threshold
1 Reflection Essays x 4 30%
Checkpoints in class as follows:
Week 3- Reflections essay 1 (3%)
Week 5- Reflections essay 2 (3%)
Week 9- Reflections essay 3 (3%)
Week 11- Reflections essay 4 (3%)
Final collated reflection essays due:
Week 14- vUWS Submission by 5:00pm Friday
(18%)
1,3 No
2 Class Participation 10%
Marks awarded for class participation in following weeks
(see detailed schedule):
Weeks 2-7 (1% each week- total 6%)
Weeks 9-11 (1% each week- total 3%)
Week 13 (1%)
1,3-6 No
3 Management Report 25% Management Report Due:
Week 10- vUWS Submission by 5:00pm Friday
(25%)
2-7 No
4 Presentation 15% Presentations take place:
Week 12- during the scheduled class time (15%) 1,3-5,7 No
5 Ethical and/or
Sustainability Report 20%
Ethical and/or Sustainability Report Due:
Week 14- vUWS Submission by 5:00pm Friday
(20%)
2-3,5 No
Note: Results may be moderated before you receive your results. Moderation is a process whereby the unit
coordinator regulates the marking of individual markers to achieve consistency in the application of unit objectives,
performance standards and marking criteria. Marks for an individual piece of assessment will not be changed after you
have your results. You should note that, consistent with the Assessment Policy - Criteria and Standards-Based
Assessment, the final marks for the cohort may also be adjusted if marks are very high or low or there are
inconsistencies between groups.
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Feedback on assessment
Feedback is an important part of the learning process that can improve your progress towards achieving the learning
outcomes. Feedback is any written or spoken response made in relation to academic work such as an assessment
task, a performance or product. It can be given to you by a teacher, an external assessor or student peer and may be
given to individually or to a group of students. As a UWS student, it is your responsibility to seek out and act on
feedback that is provided to you as a resource to further your learning.
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2.6 Assessment Details
Assessment 1: Reflection Essays
Weighting: 30% Due:
Checkpoints in class as follows:
Week 3- Reflections essay 1 (3%)
Week 5- Reflections essay 2 (3%)
Week 9- Reflections essay 3 (3%)
Week 11- Reflections essay 4 (3%)
Students need to be in class for the checkpoint assessment. Emailed reflections essays
will not be marked, as students are required to verbally answer some questions.
Final collated reflection essays due:
Week 14 by 5:00pm Friday (18%)
Submission:
Checkpoints are to be shown to the lecturer in class
Final collated reflections essays are to be submitted via Turnit-In on
vUWS
Type of Collaboration: Individual
Format: Approximately 3 Pages per each essay
Instructions
The reflections reports are given you to summarise the activities carried out in the Workshops and reflect back on
improvement of your knowledge and skills covered in the workshops. There are four reflections essays and these
cover the workshop contens as follows:
- Refelections Essay 1 – Workshops 1 and 2
- Refelections Essay 2 – Workshops 3 and 4
- Refelections Essay 3 – Workshops 5, 6 and 7
- Refelections Essay 4 – Workshops 8 and 9
Each report should have the following:
Summary of content covered in each worshop (This should be in the paragrah format of approximately 300-
350 words for each workshop)
Your assessment of knowledge and skills you had prior to the workshop (you could include details on
where you had developped knowledge and skills before, your level (expert, novice, not skilled, etc.), etc.-
You may use appropriate tools (tables, lists, etc.) to present information in this sestion.
Your knowledge and skills on the topics after you have completed the workshop (improved, same, etc.).
You may use appropriate tools (tables, lists, etc.) to present information in this section.
Areas you see that further development is needed to be a succefull ICT/Engineering Professional in
Australia. You may use appropriate tools (paragraphs, tables, lists, etc.) to present information in this
sestion.
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Answers to you tutorial questions in each of the workshop. In the formats required.
Each essay should have a proper introduction and conclusion.
Resources:
- Refer the workshop material and any internet resoruces required to complete the tutorial questions.
Marking Criteria and Standards: Reflection Essays
Criteria Unsatisfactory Pass Credit Distinction High Distinction
Checkpoint (3% per each essay- Total 12%)
Verbal
Communication
(2.5%)
Does not answer the
question directly.
Answers the
question/s, yet
language articulation
is not accurate.
Answers the
question/s but
articulation is not
needs to be improved.
Answers the
question/s but the
articulation can be
improved.
Clearly articulate the
answers that directly
answers the
question/s.
Content (0.5%) Not complete and major
improvements are
required.
Somewhat compete
yet many
improvements can be
done.
Mostly complete, yet a
few improvements
can be done.
Almost complete yet
minor improvements
can be done.
100% complete, no
improvements
required.
Final Submission (18%)
Content (5%) Not complete and major
improvements are
required.
Somewhat compete
yet many
improvements can be
done.
Mostly complete, yet a
few improvements
can be done.
Almost complete yet
minor improvements
can be done.
100% complete, no
improvements
required.
Accuracy (4%) Not accurate and have
not understood the task
appropriately.
Somewhat accurate
but needs
improvements for the
final submission.
Mostly accurate but
some minor
improvements are
required.
Almost accurate but
some minor issues.
100% accurate.
Content
Presentation
(4%)
Does not use
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams, charts,
etc..) to present the
content.
Does not convey the
message sufficiently and
major improvements are
required to gain a pass.
Uses only a few
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc.) to present
the content.
Conveys the message
sufficiently, yet many
improvements can be
done.
Uses some
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc.) to present
the content.
Conveys the message
adequately, yet a few
improvements can be
done.
Uses some
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc.) to present
the content.
Conveys the message
satisfactorily, yet
minor improvements
can be done.
Uses appropriate
tools (text, tables,
diagrams, charts,
etc.) to present the
content.
Conveys the
message flawlessly.
Professionalism
(5%)
Many errors (grammar,
spelling, etc.) and needs
re-writing.
Some errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
A few errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
Minor errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
No errors (grammar,
spelling, etc.).
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Assessment 2: Class Participation
Weighting: 10% (1% per each
class)
Due:
Assessed in Weeks 2-7, 9-11 and 13
in the class.
Submission:
In-Class
Type of Collaboration: Individual
Format: No submision of files
Instructions
Class participation is assessed based on the proactive participation in class discussions and activities. Students are
required to show their verbal communication skills in asking questions, answering questions and engaging in
discussions.
Students will not get ZERO marks if they are absent for the class at all or don’t trun up in the first hour or leaves the
class prior to the last hour. Partial marks may be awarded based on the quality of the participation.
Resources:
- Refer web and recomdeded readings
Marking Criteria and Standards: Class Participation
Criteria Unsatisfactory Pass Credit Distinction High Distinction
Quantity (0.5%) No participation Shows participation in
1 occasion during the
class
Shows participation in
2 occasions during
the class
Shows participation in
3 occasions during
the class
Shows participation in
4 or more occasions
during the class
Quality (0.5%) Does not add value to
the discussion at all
and disrupts the
discussion
Most content is
repeated or does not
add much value to the
discussion
Adds value to the
discussion, yet
unimportant things are
discussed
Adds some value to
the discussion but
repeats what was
already said
Adds new value to the
discussion
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Assessment 3: Management Report
Weighting: 25% Due:
Group Formulation – To be completed by class time in Week 3
Topic Selection – To be finalised by class time in Week 4
Final Submission - On or before 5:00pm Friday of Week 10
Submission:
via Turnit-In on vUWS
Type of Collaboration: Group of 3 Students
Format: 15 – 20 Pages
Instructions
Steps associated with this assessment:
1. Step 1 - Formulating your group –
You are required to form a group with 2 other students in your class. When you are making the group
please make sure you consider the following:
o Mix of males and females
o Mix of students from various cultural backgrounds and countries
o Mix of student who speaks different langualges and from different countries
2. Step 2 – Finalise your topic.
You will be required to select a topic that this Management Report is written on. Some topic ideas will be
made avaiale on vUWS and your group may chose one of those topics or suggest one of your own.
3. Step 3 – Produce a professional level report.
You may want to consider having the following in your report.
o Introduction to the group
o Project details (Background, Benefits, Objectives, Constriants, Key Assumptions, Costs, Expected
Outcome, Tasks, etc.)
o Schedule and Major Milestones
o Risk Analysis
Please note the above ordering does not suggest the structure of the document. The report should also have an
Executive Summary, TOC, Introduction, Conclusion, References and Appendices as needed.
Resources:
- Refer the workshop material and web for more information
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Marking Criteria and Standards: Management Report
Criteria Unsatisfactory Pass Credit Distinction High Distinction
Collaboration in
Group Activities (5%)
Did not work as a
group. Individuals
attempted to
outshine/degrade
others due to issues.
Needed constant
interaction with staff to
resolve issues.
Worked as a group,
but needed extensive
help from staff to
resolve issues.
Worked as a group,
but resolving some
issues needed help
from staff.
Worked as a group
and resolved any
issues in a good way.
Worked as a group
very well and resolved
any issues in a
professional manner.
Content (4%) Not complete and
major improvements
are required.
Somewhat compete
yet many
improvements can be
done.
Mostly complete, yet a
few improvements
can be done.
Almost complete yet
minor improvements
can be done.
100% complete, no
improvements
required.
Feasibility and
Accuracy (4%)
Not accurate and
cannot be executed.
Somewhat accurate
but design may not be
feasible.
Mostly accurate but
design may have
some feasibility
issues.
Almost accurate but
some minor issues
with feasibility.
100% accurate and
very feasible design.
Content Presentation
(4%)
Does not use
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc..) to
present the content.
This does not convey
the message
sufficiently and
improvements are
required.
Uses only a few
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc..) to
present the content.
This conveys the
message sufficiently,
yet many
improvements can be
done.
Uses some
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc..) to
present the content.
This conveys the
message adequately,
yet a few
improvements can be
done.
Uses some
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc..) to
present the content.
This conveys the
message
satisfactorily, yet
minor improvements
can be done.
Uses appropriate
tools (text, tables,
diagrams, charts,
etc..) to present the
content.
This conveys the
message flawlessly.
Content Organisation
(4%)
Not at all organised in
a logical manner
Some content
organisation is
required.
Reasonably organised
yet improvements can
increase the quality.
Somewhat logical
organisation, yet
some improvements
can be done.
Very well thought
logical organisation.
Professionalism in
documentation (4%)
Many errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
Some errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
A few errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
Minor errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
No errors (grammar,
spelling, etc.).
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Assessment 4: Presentation
Weighting: 15% Due:
Week 12 during the class time. Schdule will be notified to students via vUWS.
Submission:
No Submissions.
Type of Collaboration:
Group of 3 Students who were involved in creating the Mangement Report
Format: 15 Minutes
Instructions
The objective of the presentation is to report the major findings in the management report. Students are expected
to do a professional level presentation, that is well organised as a group. Get ideas of what needs to be included in
the presentation based on your Management Report.
Resources:
- Refer web or recommended readings for more information.
- Workshop material
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Marking Criteria and Standards: Presentation
Criteria Unsatisfactory Pass Credit Distinction High Distinction
Collaboration as
a group (3%)
Collaborative and
equal participation is
not evident in the
presentation.
Collaborative and
equal participation is
slightly evident in the
presentation.
Collaborative and
equal participation is
sufficiently evident in
the presentation.
Collaborative and
equal participation is
reasonably evident in
the presentation.
Collaborative and equal
participation is clearly
evident in the
presentation.
Delivery of the
Content (4%)
Details on problem,
solution and technical
aspects of the project
are not adequately
covered.
Details on problem,
solution and technical
aspects of the project
are covered giving
audience some idea of
the project.
Details on problem,
solution and technical
aspects of the project
are covered giving
audience reasonable
idea of the project.
Details on problem,
solution and technical
aspects of the project
are covered giving
audience a good idea
of the project.
Details on problem,
solution and technical
aspects of the project
are covered giving
audience a clear
understanding of the
project.
Organisation
and Quality
(4%)
Not well organised as
a group and material
used is not at an
acceptable level.
Somewhat organised
as a group and some
good material used.
Organised as a group
and good material
used.
Well organised as a
group and professional
level material used.
Very well organised as
a group and excellent
professional level
material used.
Clarity of the
communication
(4%)
Communication is not
at an acceptable
level, e.g. mainly
reads from slides or
cue cards.
Acceptable level
communication with
use of cue cards, etc.
Good level
communication with
some use of cue cards,
etc.
Professional level
communication with
little use of cue cards,
etc.
Professional level
communication with no
(or minimum) use of
cue cards, etc.
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Assessment 5: Ethical and/or Sustainability Report
Weighting: 20% Due:
On or before 5:00pm Friday of Week 14.
Submission:
via Turnit-In on vUWS
Type of Collaboration:
Individual
Format: 10 Pages
Instructions
Steps associated with this assessment:
1. Step 1: Select a suitbale case study
Students are required to look research for an industry-based case reported in Australia with the following
charatertistics:
o Related to ICT or Engieering sector
o Reported because it discusses an ethics, sustainability or both related issue/s
2. Step 2: Research and write a report
When reseaching.
- Read and collect al reported information related to the case you are working on
- Find similar cases reported in other industry sectors, other countries, etc.
- Find the outcome and compare it with the professional code of conduct of the relevant industry
sector
- Your analysis/judgement on the case and outcome/s
Include your findings into a well structured report. You are to decide on the approriate structure for the
document and organise the content appropriately. Marks will be given for this.
Resources:
- Refer web and relevant workshop material
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Marking Criteria and Standards: Ethical and/or Sustainability Report
Criteria Unsatisfactory Pass Credit Distinction High Distinction
Content (4%) Not complete and
major improvements
are required.
Somewhat compete
yet many
improvements can be
done.
Mostly complete, yet a
few improvements
can be done.
Almost complete yet
minor improvements
can be done.
100% complete, no
improvements
required.
Analysis (4%) Very poor analysis
and have not
considered all
aspects.
Analyses considering
all aspects/parties that
are involved in the
case, but
improvements are
required.
Reasonable analysis
considering all
aspects/parties that
are involved in the
case, yet
improvements can be
done.
Good analysis
considering all
aspects/parties that
are involved in the
case.
Excellent logical
analysis considering
all aspects/parties that
are involved in the
case.
Content Presentation
(4%)
Does not use
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc..) to
present the content.
This does not convey
the message
sufficiently and
improvements are
required.
Uses only a few
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc..) to
present the content.
This conveys the
message sufficiently,
yet many
improvements can be
done.
Uses some
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc..) to
present the content.
This conveys the
message adequately,
yet a few
improvements can be
done.
Uses some
appropriate tools (text,
tables, diagrams,
charts, etc..) to
present the content.
This conveys the
message
satisfactorily, yet
minor improvements
can be done.
Uses appropriate
tools (text, tables,
diagrams, charts,
etc..) to present the
content.
This conveys the
message flawlessly.
Content Organisation
(4%)
Not at all organised in
a logical manner
Some content
organisation is
required.
Reasonably organised
yet improvements can
increase the quality.
Somewhat logical
organisation, yet
some improvements
can be done.
Very well thought
logical organisation.
Professionalism in
documentation (4%)
Many errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
Some errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
A few errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
Minor errors
(grammar, spelling,
etc.).
No errors (grammar,
spelling, etc.).
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2.7 General Submission Requirements
Submission
– All assignments must be submitted by the specified due date and time, using a completed and signed
Assignment Cover Sheet provided in the last page of this document.
– Complete your assignment, attach a completed and signed Assignment Cover Sheet, and follow the individual
assessment items instructions on how to submit.
Turnitin
– The Turnitin plagiarism prevention system may be used within this unit. Turnitin is accessed via logging into
vUWS for the unit. If Turnitin is being used with this unit, this means that your assignments have to be
submitted through the Turnitin system.
– Turnitin from iParadigms is a web-based text-matching software that identifies and reports on similarities
between documents. It is also widely utilised as a tool to improve academic writing skills.
– Turnitin compares electronically submitted papers against the following:
o Current and archived web: Turnitin currently contains over 24 billion web pages including archived
pages
o Student papers: including UWS student submissions since 2007
o Scholarly literature: Turnitin has partnered with leading content publishers, including library
databases, text-book publishers, digital reference collections and subscription-based publications
(e.g. Gale, Proquest, Emerald and Sage)
– Turnitin is used by over 30 universities in Australia and is increasingly seen as an industry standard. It is an
important tool to assist students with their academic writing by promoting awareness of plagiarism
Self-Plagiarising
– You are to ensure that no part of any submitted assignment for this unit or product has been submitted by
yourself in another (previous or current) assessment from any unit, except where appropriately referenced,
and with prior permission form the Lecturer/Tutor/Unit Co-ordinator of this unit.
Late Submission
– If you submit a late assessment, without receiving approval for an extension of time, (see next item), you will
be penalised by 10% per day for up to 10 days. In other words, marks equal to 10% of the assignment’s
weight will be deducted from the mark awarded.
– For example, if the highest mark possible is 50, 5 marks will be deducted from your awarded mark for each
late day.
– Saturday and Sunday are counted as one calendar day each.
– Assessments will not be accepted after the marked assessment task has been returned to students.
– This is consistent with Clause 51 of the University of Western Sydney’s Assessment Policy – Criteria and
Standards-Based Assessment.
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Extension of Due Date for Submission
– It is expected that you submit your assignments on time. You are expected to manage the balance between
your studies and other activities (employment, family life, etc.). Extensions are only granted in EXCEPTIONAL
CIRCUMSTANCES.
– If circumstances prevent you from meeting the due date, and you have relevant supporting documentary
evidence, you may request an extension for an assignment. To apply for an extension of time:
o Locate an application form via the UWS homepage or copy the following link:
http://www.uws.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/118273/ARO_00205_1214_Request_for_Extension_WEB.pdf
o Application forms must be submitted to the Coordinator.
o A request for an assignment extension may be submitted before the due date of the assignment and
no later than 5:00pm two working days after the due date.
o Appropriate, supporting documentation must be submitted with the application.
o Submit the Request for Extension form as early as you can, because it may not be granted. If it is not
granted, and you submit your assignment after the due date, penalties will apply.
– An application for an extension does not automatically mean that an extension will be approved
– Your unit coordinator will advise the outcome of your request for an extension via your UWS student email
address, as soon as is practicable. The unit coordinator may contact you to discuss the matter further, if
necessary.
– If your Request for Extension is not granted you will have to submit the assignment on time and, if you do not,
you will be penalised by losing marks for each calendar day that the assignment is overdue
Resubmission
Resubmission of assessment items will not normally be granted if requested.
Application for Special Consideration
It is strongly recommended that you attend all scheduled learning activities to support your learning. If you have
suffered misadventure, illness, or you have experienced exceptional circumstances that have prevented your
attendance at class or your completion and submission of assessment tasks, you may need to apply for Special
Consideration via the UWS website.
http://www.uws.edu.au/currentstudents/current_students/services_and_facilities/special_consideration2 or the Student
Centre. Special Consideration is not automatically granted. It is your responsibility to ensure that any missed content
has been covered. Your lecturer will give you more information on how this must be done.
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3 Teaching and Learning Activities
Wk Topic
Face to Face Online Assessments
Lecture/ Tutorial Independent Reading &
Activities Assessment items
1
23/02/2015 Introduction to the Unit Workshop 1: Australian Context
Intorduction to unit
Workshop activities
Read the Learning Guide
Work on following:
Reflections Essay 1
2
02/03/2015 Workshop 2: Workplace Communication and Conduct
Workshop activities
Organise the Group for
Management Report and
Presentation
Work on following:
Reflections Essay 1
Look for suitable topics for
Management Rerpot
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
3
09/03/2005
Workshop 3: IT in Communication-1
Workshop activities
Checking Reflections Eassay 1 (30
mins)
Finalise the Group for Management
Report and Presentation
Work on following:
Reflections Essay 2
Look for suitable topics for
Management Rerpot
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
Checkpoint Reflections essay 1
(covers workshop 1 and 2) – (3%)
4
16/03/2015 Workshop 4: IT in Communication-2
Workshop activities
Discuss the Management Report
Topics to unit cooridnator (30 mins)
Work on following:
Reflections Essay 2
Fianlise the Management
Rerpot Topic
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
5
23/03/2015 Workshop 5: Project Management
Workshop activities
Checking Reflections Eassay 2 (30
mins)
Submit the Management
Rerpot Topic on vUWS
Work on following:
Reflections Essay 3
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
Checkpoint Reflections essay 2
(covers workshop 3 and 4) – (3%)
6
30/03/2015 Workshop 6: Australian Legal Context
Friday 3rd April Public Holiday
Workshop activities Work on following:
Reflections Essay 3
Management Report
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
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Wk Topic
Face to Face Online Assessments
Lecture/ Tutorial Independent Reading &
Activities Assessment items
7
07/04/2015 Workshop 7: Ethics and Professional Code of Conduct
Monday 6th April Public Holiday
Workshop activities Work on following:
Reflections Essay 3
Management Report
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
8
13/04/2015 Intra Session Break
9
20/04/2015 Workshop 8: Professional Business Writing-1
Workshop activities
Checking Reflections Eassay 3 (30
mins)
Work on following:
Reflections Essay 4
Management Report
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
Checkpoint Reflections essay 3
(covers workshop 5, 6 and 7) – (3%)
10
27/04/2015 Workshop 9: Public Speaking and Spoken Presentations
Workshop activities
Work on following:
Reflections Essay 4
Management Report
Presentation
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
vUWS Submission by 5:00pm Friday:
Management Report (25%)
11
04/05/2015
Workshop 10: Professional Academic Writing-2
Workshop activities
Checking Reflections Eassay 4 (30
mins)
Work on following:
Presentation
Ethical and/or Sustainability
report
Reflections Essays 1-4
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
Checkpoint Reflections essay 4
(covers workshop 8 and 9) – (3%)
12
11/05/2015 In Class Assessment Presentaiton
Work on the Ethical and/or
Sustainability report
Reflections Essays 1-4
In Class Assessment:
Presentation (15%)
13
18/05/2015 Workshop 11: Professional Development
Workshop activities
Work on the Ethical and/or
Sustainability report
Reflections Essays 1-4
In Class Assessment:
Class Participation (1%)
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Wk Topic
Face to Face Online Assessments
Lecture/ Tutorial Independent Reading &
Activities Assessment items
14
25/05/2015
Workshop 12: Placing yourself in industry Workshop activities
Work on the Ethical and/or
Sustainability report
Reflections Essays 1-4
vUWS Submission by 5:00pm Friday:
Collected Reflections Essay
submission (18%)
Ethical and/or Sustainability Report
(20%)
15
01/06/2015 Stuvac
16
09/06/2015 Formal Exam Period
*The above timetable should be used as a guide only, as it is ubject to change. Students will be advised of any changes as they become known.
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4 Learning Resources
4.1 Recommended Readings
Textbook No prescribed textbook
Essential
Reading List
Carlopio, J. R. (2012). Developing management skills : a comprehensive guide for leaders (5th ed.). Frenchs
Forest, N.S.W.: Pearson Australia.
Finkelstein, L. (2008). Pocket book of technical writing for engineers and scientists. Boston: McGraw-Hill Higher
Education.
Fleddermann, C. B. (2012). Engineering ethics (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Maylor, H. (2010). Project management (3rd ed.). Harlow, England: Financial Times Prentice Hall.
McDermid, D. (Ed.). (2008). Ethics in ICT : an Australian perspective. Frenchs Forest, N.S.W.: Pearson Education
Australia.
Shukla, S. (2010). Professional communication. Luckn Spinello, R. A. (2005).
Intellectual property rights in a networked world : theory and practice. Hershey, PA: Information Science Pub. ow,
India: Word-press.
Online Resources Will be notified in the relevant workshops
Literacy and/or
numeracy
resources
Will be notified in the relevant workshops
4.2 Overview of Learning Resources
Resources How to Engage with the Resources
Lectures/Textbooks/Re
ading List
– Read the recommended chapters and lecture notes relevant to the topics.
– Ensure the theory match your assumptions.
– Summarise the contents of each topic and incorporate material from lectures and tutorials.
Teaching team – Attend the tutorials and be prepared to participate.
– Attend the lectures so you understand the topic of the week and any additional materials not
covered in the textbook.
– If you have any questions about the unit, please check with the tutor, lecturer or unit
coordinator.
– Consultation session times and locations are on the inside front page of this learning guide.
– You may also ask questions on the unit vUWS discussion board.
vUWS – All unit materials (lectures, pre-readings and assessment) are available on vUWS. Check
vUWS regularly to find information on unit updates, Discussion Board, links to useful websites,
audio files and interesting seminars.
– Maintain contact on the discussion board as a way of sharing ideas and clarifying any
concepts and theories that are important to your understanding.
– Review the discussion board to see if messages have been posted about the assessment or
feedback from the assessment.
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Library – See the library home page to get help from a librarian http://library.uws.edu.au
– The Library Search Box is a great search engine that will help you to find references for
accomplishing the assignments for this unit. Please note that internet sources are discouraged
and are generally not acceptable as a reference source. You should only use the online journal
database available through UWS library website.
– You must use APA referencing style for this unit. If you have questions about referencing, on-
line librarians can provide instant assistance http://library.uws.edu.au/citing.php.
Mathematics Education
Support Hub
– MESH provides UWS students at all stages in their courses of study, with mathematics and
statistics support. This website provides online resources to students who want to:
- revise or ‘brush-up’ on their basic mathematical skills
- understand and practice the mathematical calculations underpinning their discipline area/s
- gain statistical skills for their industry
– Build your confidence in using mathematics by engaging in the activities provided by MESH.
The link to their web site is http://www.uws.edu.au/mesh.
PASS – Whether you are a top performer or could use some improvement, you will benefit from the
skills and understanding gained from attending PASS. PASS sessions are facilitated by senior
students who have excelled in this unit. Many students each year find this unit challenging,
and PASS has a strong record of helping those students to get through the subject. To see the
PASS timetable visit the website: www.uws.edu.au/pass.
– Any students with an AIP attending PASS sessions should contact the PASS Coordinator on
[email protected] to ensure necessary adjustments are in place.
4.3 Other Resources
University life Find out about life outside the lecture theatre – news and events, services and facilities, career information
and more!
http://www.uws.edu.au/currentstudents/current_students/services_and_facilities
E-Learning Check your vUWS sites regularly for unit announcements and to keep up with online discussions. If you do not
have access to vUWS please contact e-learning on https://vuws.uws.edu.au/
Disability Service Students with a disability should visit:
http://www.uws.edu.au/currentstudents/current_students/getting_help/disability_services
Course and unit
rules
This site provides information on pre-requisites, co-requisites and other matters concerning how your
course is structured.
http://www.uws.edu.au/currentstudents/current_students/managing_your_study/enrolment/course_and_unit_
rules
Policies This site includes the full details of policies that apply to you as a UWS student.
http://www.uws.edu.au/policies/a-z
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5 Important Information
5.1 Student responsibilities and code of conduct
Student
responsibilities
Familiarise yourself with university policies on assessment and examinations. More information,
including links to the policies, can be found at section 5.3 of this Learning Guide
Ensure that you understand the requirements, including timetables, for examinations and other
assessments tasks.
Ensure you read and understand the assessment requirements and note the submission dates,
and seek assistance from the lecturer and/or unit coordinator when needed.
Notify relevant staff (e.g. lecturer, unit coordinator, disability adviser) as soon as possible prior
to, or at the beginning of, the semester to have special requirements accommodated.
Submit your own individual and unassisted assessment work, except as otherwise permitted.
Cheating, plagiarism, fabrication or falsification of data will be severely dealt with as per policy.
Behave ethically and appropriately, avoiding any action or behaviour which would unfairly
disadvantage or advantage another student. Where group work is assigned, ensure that every
group member has the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to the assignment.
Student conduct
and behaviour
Attend all lectures, tutorials, practicals and workshops – not attending these classes is often the
main cause of failure and low grades.
Respect the needs of other students who are participating in any class activities.
Pay attention in lectures, tutorials, practicals and workshops for key information on examinable material.
Do not use mobile phones during the lectures, tutorials, practicals and workshops and do not have ongoing conversations with fellow students during the lecture or if another student/tutor is presenting work in any of the classes.
Please use electronic devices for taking notes and other class activities, not surfing the net or checking email.
5.2 Staff responsibilities and code of conduct
Academic staff carry out their teaching responsibilities under the authority of the Dean of the School of Computing,
Engineering and Mathematics. The responsibilities of staff are outlined in the following table.
Staff responsibilities Assess students' work fairly, objectively and consistently and when in doubt consult with the
unit coordinator or the discipline Director of Academic Programs.
Provide students with appropriate, helpful and explanatory feedback on all work submitted for
assessment.
Make reasonable accommodation (e.g. length of time to complete) in assessment tasks and
examinations for students with special requirements and to seek assistance from the Disability
Advisor and Counsellor where appropriate and needed.
Ensure deadlines for the submission of examination papers to the Academic Registrar are met.
Immediately report any issues or concerns related to student academic and non-academic
misconduct to the Director of Academic Programs.
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5.3 Links to Policies
The University has a number of policies that relate to teaching and learning. Important policies affecting students
include:
Assessment Policy
Bullying Prevention Policy and Guidelines
Enrolment Policy (includes a section on the UWS Student Email Account)
Examinations Policy
Misconduct – Student Academic Misconduct Policy (see extract below)
Misconduct – Student Non-academic Misconduct Policy (see extract below)
Review of Grade Policy
Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy
Special Consideration Policy
Teaching and Learning – Fundamental Code
There are two policies that relate to misconduct – academic and non-academic misconduct. Breaches of these
policies can have very serious consequences. It is essential that you are familiar with these policies and how to avoid
misconduct of any type.
What is academic misconduct?
Academic misconduct may involve plagiarism, collusion or cheating. Plagiarism involves submitting or presenting work
in a unit as if it were the student's own work when, in fact, it was not. Collusion includes inciting, assisting, facilitating,
concealing or being involved in plagiarism, cheating or other academic misconduct with others. Cheating includes
dishonest conduct (or attempted dishonest conduct) in exams.
For the full definition of academic misconduct and the consequences of such behaviour, you are advised to read the
Misconduct – Student Academic Misconduct Policy.
There are many resources to help you avoid academic misconduct. Library staff can help you with referencing and the
Student Learning Unit can assist with academic writing and plagiarism. If you are unsure about any of your work you
should also ask your tutor or lecturer for advice and feedback.
What is non-academic misconduct?
Non-academic misconduct includes unlawful activities and crimes, falsifying documents (like a medical certificate or
academic records), harassing other students (or staff), stealing or damaging university property (like library books or
computers) and disrupting other students or staff. These are just some of the types of non-academic misconduct and
while these things are rare they do happen. If you believe you have been the victim of non-academic misconduct or
you are aware of any academic misconduct it is very important that you report it.
You should report all matters of non-academic misconduct directly to the School of Computing, Engineering and
Mathematics or Campus Security.
5.4 Raising concerns If you have a concern about this unit, please contact your lecturer or tutor in the first instance. If the matter is not
resolved, then you may contact the unit coordinator (see inside front cover). If you would prefer to speak to someone
else, you are advised to contact the Director of Academic Program responsible for this unit. Please note the Director
of Academic Program may refer your concern to a delegate to investigate and to respond to you.
The University also has a confidential Complaints Resolution Unit (see link below). You may contact this unit of the
University at any time; however, we would appreciate the opportunity to resolve the complaint in the first instance.
http://www.uws.edu.au/about_uws/uws/governance/complaints_management_and_resolution
School of Computing Engineering & Mathematics
ASSIGNMENT / REPORT COVER SHEET This sheet must be attached to all material being submitted for marking.
Student name:
Student number:
Unit name and number:
Tutorial day and time:
Lecturer/Tutor:
Title of Assignment:
Length: (optional)
Date due:
Date submitted:
Student Declaration (must be signed) Declaration:
I hold a copy of this assignment if the original is lost or damaged. I hereby certify that no part of this assignment or product has been copied from any other student’s work or from any
other source except where due acknowledgement is made in the assignment. No part of the assignment/product has been written / produced for me by any other person except where collaboration
has been authorised by the subject lecturer/tutor concerned I am aware that this work may be reproduced and submitted to plagiarism detection software programs for the purpose
of detecting possible plagiarism (which may retain a copy on its database for future plagiarism checking)) I hereby certify that no part of this assignment or product has been submitted by me in another (previous or current)
assessment, except where appropriately referenced, and with prior permission from the Lecturer/Tutor/ Unit Co-ordinator for this unit.
Student signature and date:
Note: An examiner or lecturer/tutor has the right to not mark this assignment if the above declaration has not been signed.
Student Receipt
Student Number and Name:
Unit Number and Name:
Title of Assignment:
ASSIGNMENTS TO BE HANDED IN AT RECEPTION MUST BE RECEIVED BY 12 NOON
School of Computing Engineering & Mathematics
GROUP ASSIGNMENT / REPORT COVER SHEET
This sheet MUST BE attached to all material being submitted for marking.
Student name: Student number:
Student name: Student number:
Student name: Student number:
Student name: Student number:
Student name: Student number:
Student name: Student number:
Unit name & number:
Tutorial group:
Tutorial day and time:
Lecturer/Tutor:
Title of Assignment:
Length: (optional)
Date due:
Date submitted:
Student Declaration (must be signed) Declaration:
I hold a copy of this assignment if the original is lost or damaged. I hereby certify that no part of this assignment or product has been copied from any other student’s work or from any
other source except where due acknowledgement is made in the assignment. No part of the assignment/product has been written / produced for me by any other person except where
collaboration has been authorised by the subject lecturer/tutor concerned I am aware that this work may be reproduced and submitted to plagiarism detection software programs for the
purpose of detecting possible plagiarism (which may retain a copy on its database for future plagiarism checking)
I hereby certify that no part of this assignment or product has been submitted by me in another (previous or current) assessment, except where appropriately referenced, and with prior permission from the Lecturer/Tutor/ Unit Co-ordinator for this unit.
Student signature and date:
(Submitting for group)
Note: An examiner or lecturer / tutor has the right to not mark this assignment if the above declaration has not been signed.
Student Receipt.
Student Number and Name:
Unit Number and Name:
Title of Assignment:
ASSIGNMENTS TO BE HANDED IN AT RECEPTION MUST BE RECEIVED BY 12 NOON