COM5043 - Thematic Project and Placement

Objectives:

Assessment tasks are designed to enable students to demonstrate the Learning and Employability outcomes for the relevant level of study. Level Learning Outcomes are embedded in the assessment task(s) at that level. This enables a more integrated view of overall student performance at each level.

Content:

In this module, a people-centric approach is employed to cultivate the essential project leadership skills demanded by computer practitioners. Through the lens of Agile methodology, students engage in a programme-specific group project, immersing themselves in collaborative and dynamic work environments. The module goes beyond technical expertise, reinforcing students’ comprehension of the social, professional, ethical and legal dimensions of computing, as well as a focus on equality and diversity within the context of their programme. It acts as a crucial preparatory step for their final year project by introducing vital elements such as teamwork, project planning and investigative skills. The immersive experience not only enhances their technical acumen but also provides ample opportunities for reflection, fostering the development of personal and communication skills crucial for effective teamwork and future employability. Students emerge from this module well-equipped for the challenges and demands of real-world computing projects.

For the placement element of this module, there will be a series of seminars/workshops designed to prepare students for the professional placement, focusing on developing important employability skills, career plans and sector/industry knowledge. The range of seminars/workshops will be delivered in collaboration with the Placements and Graduate Employability Teams and is likely to include several guest speakers from placement providers and alumni who can provide essential background and context. The aim will be to support students in finding a placement that relates to their degree specialism.

Students also have the opportunity to take part in a day conference. A work placement or similar employment experience is also part of this module.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Workshops
Hours: 30
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Placement
Hours: 210 (6 weeks/30 days)

Day Conference
Hours: 6
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 54

Further Details Relating to Assessment

Assessment tasks are designed to measure the extent to which you have satisfied the Level Learning Outcomes for your programme. Some modules, for example where there are professional body (PSRB) requirements, will also test for module-specific skills and knowledge.

Thematic Project: This component assesses progression in the module in the form of a team project, encompassing a set of tasks wherein students showcase their comprehension and application of module concepts to meet specified criteria according to their programme of study. Students undertake a team-based case study using appropriate project management tools and techniques to plan and perform a small team project applying Agile methods. Each course team develops these course-specific case studies. This allows students to apply the project management principles to tackle a problem closely related to their course aims. This also helps to prepare students for their final year project. A significant part of the learning is experiential and arises from the carefully chosen and monitored team project. Students apply techniques and skills appropriate for their programme in a realistic context, learning how to select and apply them in a practical situation. It is vital to the development of the students’ understanding of Agile project management that they are encouraged and facilitated to apply agile techniques in this team project. Reflection and the giving and receiving of feedback are key elements in this learning process. Students present the thematic project deliverables in a Day Conference that culminates in a team-based activity and presentation that reflects and complements their project work.

Placement: During taught preparation sessions, students will be guided through career analysis, highlighting the variety of job opportunities and skill requirements indicative of graduate roles. Further sessions will be focussed on CV and interview skills, alongside developing interpersonal and networking skills to support securing an appropriate professional placement. The practical element is normally of 6 weeks’ duration. This work placement will compliment After completion of the placement, students will reflect on their experiences and future plans.

In computer science classes, formative assessment serves to bolster the skills essential for module success. This may include engaging in practical labs, undertaking design and modelling tasks, delivering case study presentations, completing short quizzes and conducting specific investigation tasks. The provision of formative feedback is integrated seamlessly into class sessions, ensuring an ongoing and iterative process to enhance learning outcomes.

Full details are available in the Module Handbook.

Please note that assessment component 2 must be passed in line with University regulations. Further details of assessment are available in the Assessment Handbook for your programme and in Assessment Briefs provided by Module Tutors.

Assessment:

001 Thematic Project (Team Based); 2000 word equiv; End sem 2 50%
002 Day Conference Presentation; 5 min presentation per person; End sem 2 25%
003 Placement; 6 weeks; End of Sem 2 or Throughout Year %
004 Reflective Placement Report; 750 words; After completion of Placement 25%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - PRS_CODE=
Level - 5
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 5S2

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